Italian symphonic death metallers Fleshgod Apocalypse recently added a unique and heartwarming moment to their “Chaos & Carnage Tour,” with vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Francesco Paoli officiating an on-stage wedding ceremony for two fans, Joseph and Kayla. The band shared footage of the special occasion via social media on May 7, 2025.
During a recent stop on their ongoing North American tour, the elaborately costumed and face-painted Paoli took on the role of “priest” for the couple in front of a packed auditorium. “It’s the first time I’m a priest,” Paoli joked to the crowd before taking the “I do’s” from Joseph and Kayla. He then joyfully declared, “By the power of music and death metal, I pronounce you husband and wife!” While the ceremony appeared to be more symbolic than legally binding, given Paoli‘s humorous remarks about his non-ordained status, it provided an unforgettable experience for the couple and the audience.
This instance of metal matrimony isn’t entirely isolated; last month, a couple famously tied the knot in a Cannibal Corpse mosh pit, and back in 2014, Machine Head frontman Robb Flynn brought a couple on stage after a mid-concert proposal.
Fleshgod Apocalypse, formed in Perugia, Italy, in 2007, are renowned worldwide for their unique fusion of brutal death metal with intricate classical orchestrations and operatic soprano vocals, all delivered while adorned in 17th-century-inspired costumes and ghoulish makeup. Their latest album, 2024’s Opera, received critical acclaim. The record is a concept piece deeply inspired by a near-fatal mountain-climbing accident Paoli endured in 2021, from which he has made a near-total recovery.
The “Chaos & Carnage Tour,” which features Fleshgod Apocalypse alongside Dying Fetus, Cradle Of Filth, Ne Obliviscaris, Undeath, Vomit Forth, and Corpse Pile, is currently winding down. Fans still have a couple of opportunities to catch them on this run:
Remaining “Chaos And Carnage Tour” Related Dates – May 2025:
- May 13 – Ft. Collins, CO – Aggie Theatre (with Dying Fetus & Undeath)
- May 14 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium (full “Chaos & Carnage Tour” lineup)
