Caligula’s Horse headlining and closing ProgPower Europe 2024

Caligula’s Horse returned to ProgPower Europe to close out the festival with a performance that, while familiar to longtime fans like myself, still showcased their exceptional live prowess. Having seen them multiple times, the set felt predictable, but their professionalism and tight musicianship were undeniable.

Frontman Jim Grey once again proved why he's considered one of the best in the scene. His vocal range was impeccable, and his engaging banter, filled with Australian humor, kept the audience entertained between songs. The band, now performing as a quartet with Sam Vallen taking full guitar duties, delivered a setlist that spanned their discography, including fan favorites like 'Marigold', 'Oceanrise' and the epic and tear-jerking closer 'Graves'.

The band clearly used a backline for the show, which some in the audience felt was less authentic to the live experience, but the sheer quality and power of their performance more than made up for it, winning everyone over with their phenomenal musicianship.

For me, apart from experiencing the raw emotion of 'Graves' by diving into the heart of the crowd, a highligh was as well the surprising and hilarious moment when bassist Dale Prinsse shaved off his tour-grown mustache on stage, much to the surprise and laughs of the band and audience alike. The band also recorded the entire performance, hinting at a possible future live release.

While the set may not have held many surprises for seasoned attendees, Caligula’s Horse’s energy, emotion, and deep connection with the audience reaffirmed their place as a top-tier live act and the perfect finale to an unforgettable weekend.