Different but still 100% Katatonia, I'd say.
Both, Sodomizer and Niklas performed excellently and it did not at all feel like they were only temporary replacements. I had the impression they were really into it, not just doing a job. I hope they stay!
The most significant improvement is the vocals. Much more efficient with 2 backing singers. For example, on the last UK- tour, Forsaker sounded a bit incomplete with only Jonas voice. Now, with Sodomizer, I fully enjoy the live version of this song. And of course Idle Blood with all 3 of them singing is great. And I also have to mention Onward Into The Battle, definitely a new Kata- highlight!
Only during the older songs I kind of missed the Norrmans, but it seems I'm getting over it easier than expected, because, like I said, the new guys fit in very well.
Concerning Niklas: Yes, finger picking is cool! And he's very nice. But of course Mattias' style was also very cool.
The hair: There's nothing wrong with long hair, is there?
Friends of mine, who don't really consider themselves as Katatonia fans but have seen the band with the old and the new line up, were positively surprised. And from most of the real Kata fans I talked to, I heard only good feedback. No worries, this band still rules! Go and see them live, you won't be disappointed!
It's so sad the European tour is over, I still haven't seen them often enough...