Photos and Review by Raven Divito
@rockinshots

In a whirlwind of raw energy and emotional intensity, Refused delivered what they proclaimed to be their final concert at Ace of Spades in Sacramento, California, on April 10, 2025. For fans and newcomers alike, the night was a powerful testament to the band’s legacy in the hardcore punk scene, leaving an indelible mark that will resonate long after the last note faded.

The crowd’s anticipation reached a fever pitch as the band took the stage with an electrifying presence. Vocalist Dennis Lyxzén, with his signature charisma and fervor, immediately commanded the audience’s attention. The night kicked off with “Poetry,” a track that encapsulated the frenetic spirit of their music, and the crowd erupted, a sea of bodies moving in unison.

Refused’s setlist was a well-curated journey through their discography, highlighting both classic anthems and tracks from their later works. Songs like “New Noise” and “Malfire” served as rallying cries, igniting the crowd’s passion and prompting sing-alongs that echoed throughout the venue. Each song was delivered with a fervor that reminded everyone why Refused had become a cornerstone of the punk movement.

The band’s musicianship was on full display, with guitarist Mattias Bärjed and Magnus Flagge on bass. Their riffs cut through the air like a knife. Drummer David Sandström, in particular, was a whirlwind of energy, his relentless beats driving the audience into a frenzy. The chemistry between the band members was evident, showcasing years of collaboration and an unwavering commitment to their craft.

In between songs, Lyxzén took moments to reflect on the band’s journey, expressing gratitude for the fans who had supported them over the years. The emotional weight of these speeches hung in the air, a poignant reminder of the band’s impact on the punk and hardcore scenes. It was clear that this was not just a farewell concert; it was a celebration of a legacy that had inspired countless fans and musicians alike.

The climax of the night came with “Refused Are Fucking Dead,” a fitting anthem that encapsulated their defiance and passion. The energy in the room was electric, with crowd surfers and mosh pits erupting in a shared catharsis. It felt as if the walls themselves were vibrating with the collective pulse of the audience, a moment where time seemed to stand still.

The band left the stage following a mind-blowing, electrifying rendition of “New Noise.” The fans erupted in excitement. Refused could have wrapped up the night with that explosive set, but the audience had other ideas. The chants and stomping from the crowd sent chills down my spine. Clearly, the band sensed the energy and returned to deliver a powerful encore with “Tannhäuser / Der Fall Wagner.”

As the final notes rang out and the band took their bows, the atmosphere was a mixture of euphoria and melancholy. Fans shouted for encores, but the reality of the moment set in—this was truly the end of an era. The lights came up, and as the crowd began to disperse, there was a sense of gratitude and reverence among attendees. Refused may have played their last show, but their music will undoubtedly continue to inspire and resonate.

In retrospect, the concert was more than just a farewell; it was a celebration of everything Refused stood for: rebellion, passion, and the indomitable spirit of punk rock. As attendees filed out of Ace of Spades, many wore smiles tinged with bittersweet nostalgia, knowing they had witnessed a momentous occasion. Refused may be gone from the stage, but their influence will echo through the halls of punk history for years to come.

For information and news, visit Refused at https://www.officialrefused.com