Perth’s hardcore fan base showed up at the Amplifier early, and quickly filled the venue. Openers The Broderick – Melbournites on their first trip West – were surprised at the number of punters who knew of them, knew their songs, and were down the front showing their appreciation. The band’s set was short but energetic, guitarist Marc and vocalist Logan pogo-jumping around the stage with great enthusiasm.
Perth-based Break Even were up next, and got an even bigger reception from their home crowd. Chatty frontman Mark Bawden demanded a circle pit around the Amplifier’s central column, and despite sounding rather like he was addressing kindergarten, his directions were followed, although his requests for more stage divers weren’t. Break Even’s set was tight and rhythmic, and these guys look like they’re a band to watch out for.
Carpathian have a reputation as a hard-working band, touring the country extensively to build a fan base, and that hard work has certainly paid off for them in Perth: not only was the Amplifier packed, but their all-ages show at HQ sold out. Touring in support of their latest effort, Isolation , the now-stabilised lineup of Martin Kirby (vocals), Josh Manitta (guitar), Ed Redclift (bass), David Bichard (drums) and Lloyd (guitar) makes up a band on a mission.
Playing songs from Isolation as well as older material, Carpathian’s live show was impressive. Their songs weave in more melodic elements than is common in current hardcore – earning them the label “metalcore” in some circles, although this appears to be something they try to avoid – but there’s no lack of hardcore aggression.
It’s no wonder the punters love them. Reinstated frontman Kirby actively encouraged stage divers (including one acrobatic individual who leapfrogged over the singer on his way back into the crowd), passed the microphone around for vocal “assistance”, and allowed himself to be dragged into the pit during the last song.
With more touring scheduled around Australia, no doubt when Carpathian return to WA in October there’ll be even more happy hardcore punks lining up to check them out.
