Helmet, Escape Syndrome @ ANUBar, Canberra (30/6/11)

Sat 2nd Jul, 2011 in Gig Reviews

The cold offered little deterrent to the metal faithful, lapping up (and layering up) the opportunity to see what is arguably one of alternative metal’s most influential groups. Business as usual behind the bar kept the punters well watered and the vibe a happy and content one.

Local talent Escape Syndrome began the night’s entertainment, kicking off with a well-oiled and diverse performance. The Canberra quartet made for a perfect opening act; playing a headstrong and driving blend of contemporary hard rock and metal, much in the same vein as fellow countrymen and prog-metal upstarts Karnivool. An energetic on-stage persona in that of frontman Matt Faulkner – who managed to effortlessly engage his audience and keep those scattered throughout the darkened room before him listening and reacting to the music, heightened the experience. Axemen Shane Faulkner on lead guitar and Josh Chaffey (standing in for Matt Johnson) on bass played with an invigorating energy that installed a surging sense of gravitas that gave the typical Escape Syndrome number all the more fodder to get the head moving.

Page Hamilton and co. assumed the spotlight to the always heart warming welcome of a sea of horns raised (or half-filled cups that occupied the hands). Kicking things off with quintessential Helmet circa Strap It On and Meantime that catalysed almost instantaneous combustion of some not too over the top moshing from the faithful up the front. Despite his prolific status of the grandfather and inspiration of so many bands in the last decade or so, Hamilton was clearly elated to be playing at a venue that allowed for a more intimate show. Cheerfully declaring how drunk he was, Hamilton kicked out jam after fuzz riddled jam, playing with a fervent energy that is rarely found in people half his age. Minor technical issues gave Hamilton the opportunity to chat with his audience, demonstrating an insightful sense of humour and wit that gave what would otherwise be an awkward moment where stage hands frantically tried to resolve the problem a charming and special sense of poignancy. I don’t think anyone would’ve complained if an amp blew a valve and Hamilton was given a second chance for some stand up; although the issues were resolved, the mix was more than adequate and Helmet continued on their way, pounding down elephant marching riffs with wanton abandon, exploring the broad spectrum of their discography.

It’s always a treat when an international act comes to the capital. It’s even more so when the hype fails to articulate the brilliance that a Helmet show embodies; a spectacle that will be remembered for a long time to come.