The support band Running From Wolves, from Sunderland, started the night with some hardcore/screamo noise. If i'm honest it wasn't really up my street. They seemed to be trying too hard to be Enter Shikari or someone like that, and unfortunately the frontman's cocky attitude was quite irritating seeing as no one was paying them any attention. It was clear that the growing crowd were there to see the headliners. The lead vocals were unimpressive, basically just shouting over the music (which some people might like, so i'll not count that as a real negative). I felt like the rest of the band were let down by the vocals, as musically they showed some promise, with talented musicians and some awesome dual guitar solos. The crowd didn't seem that interested unfortunately, as much as they tried to warm them up.
Beyond The Grave took to the stage finally, and the room began to wake up and pay attention! The frontman was ill with tonsillitis or something equally horrible, but still managed to pull amazing vocals out of the bag - a true professional! Fans in the audience sang back every word to their much loved songs. They played two new songs which were very well received. One was a work in progress which they bravely played anyway, the risk payed off as everyone seemed to love it.
The Newcastle based five-piece wowed the crowd with their heavy yet melodic metal. Everything about this gig just worked. The guitarists produced towering riffs and astounding solos, combine this with stunningly imposing vocals and you have a winning formula. Their super talented drummer showed us exactly what he can do with a captivating drum solo mid-set. I couldn't avert my eyes. Truly awesome stuff.
The band were running to a strict time schedule, so unfortunately their last song 'By the Light of a Setting Sun' (an epic, atmospheric masterpiece) came earlier than one would have hoped, purely because you'd rather they didn't stop playing. The band ended their set to much applause, and the crowd were ecstatic when they returned to play an encore, a brilliant cover of Machine Head's 'Imperium'.
Beyond The Grave put on an amazing show, even triumphing over illness to 'fight the good fight'. They filled the room with their powerful metal and their massive stage presence. A must hear for any metal fan.
Their first full studio album 'The Human Tide' is available now.
Beyond The Grave are playing with Fallen Fate at The Forum, Darlington on the 26th February.
Sorry it's late, and sorry about the photography! The lighting was terrible, and i only had my phone :(
ReplyDeleteSiobhan x