Behind Crimson Eyes @ TheManning Bar, Sydney (22/05/09)

Mon 25th May, 2009 in Gig Reviews

CHECK OUT THE PHOTOS FROM THE SHOW HERE.

It’s unusual to attend a gig and be exposed to a wide range of music genres, all wrapped in one neat package. The Behind Crimson Eyes album launch tour combined the band with three supporting acts, all with varying and different influences.

On a refreshing, wet Friday night, the Manning Bar was disappointingly empty for opening support band The Mission in Motion. The Sydney five-piece gained solid support from the small crowd of under-agers, creating an interactive atmosphere by taking open demands for what should be on their set list. Anymore Gunplay Gets Answered and Don’t You Just Love Theatre? were big hits of the night, combining their intricate emo sound with hardcore vocals from guitarist Kent Griffiths.

Melbourne prog metal outfit Sleep Parade opened to an unappreciative crowd, indicating that their genre was not what the crowd was there to see. Lethargic beginnings gave way to a talented and impressive set, despite a clearly unenthusiastic crowd. The three-piece were dramatic in their embracing of guitar effects; filling the room with a mixture of eerie undertones and moody, thrashing bass. One Track Mind was an aural attack on the senses, delivering a hauntingly quiet intro which slowly built up to an intense, screaming bridge – true to the progressive genre. Overall, Sleep Parade were a pleasure to watch, but their talent was obviously unrecognised by the younger members of the audience.

Returning to 4/4 timing, Ellington were obviously more accessible, as the crowd welcomed them onstage. The alternative/indie band has clearly formed a dedicated fanbase from their personable attitudes and fun, positive music. Lead singer Jake Bosci’s vocals were a warming sensation united with enviable guitar skills from Michael Beatson. Ellington proudly showcased some new tracks from latest EP More Like a Movie, Less Like Real Life, which excited some punters up front. Clearly a complete contrast to the previous two support bands, the Brisbane act were an interesting combination thrown into the mix.

Finally, Behind Crimson Eyes embraced the stage to squeals of pleasure from the still surprisingly small crowd. The Melbourne post-hardcore five-piece seemed refreshed and invigorated, despite their latest tour’s impending conclusion. Latest single Fighting for our Lives from the new self-titled album received a roaring amount of support from the crowd, which was surprising as they had been quiet for the last three performances.

Despite drummer Cameron Gilmour’s announcement of an imminent departure, the band provided a fantastic, gutsy performance – ripping out old hits Black Veil, Shakedown and You’ve Had Your Chance. The boys’ trademark guitar solos were a highlight, ending the night on a positive note. They were farewelled by many a cheer from the audience, obviously looking forward to their upcoming show at the Come Together Festival.