With Dying Words, TheJonestown Syndicate, HerLatest Flame, Knife to aGunfight, Nazarite Vow @Fowlers Live, Adelaide,(03/11/06)

Mon 6th Nov, 2006 in Gig Reviews

Before any band even hit the stage the atmosphere was strange; despite doors opening at the usual time of 7pm, daylight savings meant it was still light outside when Nazarite Vow hit the stage. Unfortunately, their solid, energetic start was interrupted by sound difficulties early on in the set. The screamo/metal quintet battled through the intermittent sound quality while still upholding the enthusiastic performance they are becoming renown for.

Knife to a Gunfight from NSW were the next band on stage, their fast-paced metal hardcore had the kids dancing from the beginning. After never seeing, or hearing of this band before I was quite impressed. Their habit of aligning themselves across the stage in a perfect line looked very cool.

Fresh off a spot at Taste of Chaos, Her Latest Flame have been creating some buzz with the recent release of their debut EP and getting some attention on Triple J’s Unearthed. Tonight though, something was missing. Josh Dunning’s vocals were swallowed by the rest of the band making him barely audible. Despite this, their catchy songs led to audience clap alongs and a fair amount of mosh pit movement. While I’m not a huge fan, I loved the last song of their set, This Time Around – it is their best. A catchy mix of melodies, rock and screaming.

The Jonestown Syndicate exploded onto the stage. Every time I see this band I like their unique metal hardcore more and more. Again vocal problems made it frustrating to really enjoy this band as much as I have previously.

The room quickly filled for the appearance of With Dying Words. It’s easy to forget that most of the band members are only 16 years old when you actually hear them, but then you are reminded of it by the high number of 13 and 14 year-olds packed together at the front with their awkward half-mosh. Sound wise, With Dying Words are impressive. Their melodic hardcore drawn from a variety of influences to create their own sound. Their undeniable enthusiasm transferred into the crowd encouraging the occasional crowd surf and clap along. Now, I know it must be exciting to be releasing an EP, but vocalist Matthew Khabbaz, did talk a little too much between each song.

The one song encore had the audience moving one last time with more crowd surfing and stage diving. And, yes, to use a cliché, a band this young showcase a lot of potential and will develop their sound as they grow. The title of their EP, The Story Begins, is highly appropriate.