Summer Slaughter Tour @ TheManning Bar, Sydney (13/03/09)

Mon 16th Mar, 2009 in Gig Reviews

As a complete novice when it comes to death metal, the prospect of attending the self-proclaimed – œMost Extreme Tour of the Year’ was a little daunting. As my eyes flicked over the names of headliners Necrophagist (Greek for – œeater of the dead’), Dying Fetus and Aborted, the image of standing in a crowd of angry, head-banging fans instantly sprang to my mind. However, the Summer Slaughter tour provided me with a positive and welcome insight into metal’s most misunderstood strain.

After immense success in the United States, Canada and the UK, Soundworks Touring announced late last year that the prestigious death metal/grindcore showcase would grace our shores for a capital-city only tour. With the aforementioned headliners on board, the tour also brought The Faceless, The Red Shore and offered a battle-of-the-bands competition for local acts to score an opening slot in their hometown.

Due to medical and financial constraints The Red Shore pulled out of the bill, only to be replaced by Dred at the Sydney gig. Unfortunately on the night, a lengthy line-up at the Manning Bar entrance meant that many fans missed out on the short opening set by the local boys. Despite the organisational set-back, the vocals of Evgeny Linnik were viciously clear, his growl echoing across the University campus.

As the crowd poured into the venue, Aborted began a lengthy sound-test before filling the room with a roaring, gripping intro of double-kicking drums and rapid guitar riffs. Vocalist Sven De Caluwé soon burst onto the stage in an energetic frenzy, inciting a mosh pit of enthusiastic, head-banging fans. Guitarist Sebastien Tuvi’s vocals complimented Caluwé’s hardcore snarl perfectly, as the band played a range of songs both from their latest release and back catalogue.

Despite another lengthy sound-check, Dying Fetus took to the stage in an uproar of vocal support from the crowd. The band was instantly impressive, delivering a flawless performance that can only come with almost 20 years experience. Bassist Sean Beasley executed his art at lightning speed, while drummer Trey Williams at one point played with only one drumstick. The band proclaimed their appreciation for the crowd’s support with, – œWhat’s up motherfuckers? We’re so glad to be here!” before exploding into single One Shot, One Kill. The band’s teeth-shattering breakdowns provoked an enormous circle pit, before thankful fans cheered upon their completion.

Necrophagist graced the stage shortly after, and it was clear who the crowd was here to see. The bar was completely suffocating, as vocalist Muhammed Suiçmez impressed the crowd with his technical guitar skills, particularly during Epitaph and Foul Body Autopsy. Drummer Romain Goulon was a picture of concentration as the band performed with energy unrivalled by the previous performers. Their unique instrumental structure as well as epic speed of delivery was nothing short of awe-inspiring.

The Faceless were the last to perform on the night. As a young band compared to their touring partners, they too were equally impressive. With a brand new album released late last year, the band’s set-list focused heavily on their latest musical effort.

Even when held at such a small venue, the turnout and support for Sydney’s Summer Slaughter tour was wholehearted. The evening definitely made a lasting impression – ensuring that rather than running away screaming, I in fact screamed along with everyone else.