Words by Matt New
Photos by Angie New
Few bands in musical history are credited for shaping a plethora of new genres like Helmet have. The alternative metal pioneers were in part responsible for the birth of Nu-Metal, and many of our favourite bands would not exist without their unique musical influence. After many delays due to the pandemic, Helmet finally brought their highly anticipated 30th-anniversary tour to Australia, and we could not be more overjoyed for this monumental occasion.
The Roundhouse at the University of NSW began to fill up early with enthusiastic Helmet fans, keen to secure their position to see their idol Page Hamilton and his modern line-up.
With no support bands on the bill; which seemed strange at first, we were alternatively treated to a playlist of music that included many of Page’s musical influences from Willy Nelson, Al Green and many other jazz standards. The dulcet tones of Frank Sinatra‘s That’s Life echoed through the venue before the band graced the stage with instruments in hand and smiles from ear to ear to see a packed house.
Opening the set with It’s Easy to Get Bored, Ironhead and Give It, Helmet proved they are still a powerhouse of the highest order. Their infectious groove, unique combination of odd time signatures and chord voicings definitely highlight the sophistication and musicality that separates them from their peers.
Page Hamilton worked his guitar to the bone, showcasing his unique guitar techniques. Vocally it took him a few songs to get warmed up, but by the time Helmet got into tracks such as Exactly What You Wanted and Blacktop, he was at his very best and had the crowd in the palm of his hand.
A few small technical issues with Page’s vocal effect microphone would not halt this juggernaut powering on through Rollo, really highlighting this band’s level of professionalism. The occasion of this show was very much about the back catalog of 30 years of work, and the banter was kept to a bare minimum.
Page jokingly taunted the Sydney audience that Newcastle fed the band more energy, which provoked the crowd into a frenzy which was maintained for the remainder of the evening.
Helmet have released eight albums over the course of their illustrious 34-year career, and 1994’s Betty would feature the most tracks performed for the evening, followed by 1992’s Meantime and 1997’s Aftertaste. All albums featured an offering with the exception of 2004’s Size Matters which on a personal note is an underrated gem. This aside the set was a non-stop rollercoaster ride of hits that slapped hard and kept the crowd moving in unison.
The line-up for Helmet in this modern incarnation has remained stable since the mid-2000s and the ensemble of musicians supporting Page all demonstrated exceptional levels of musicianship and energy. Exceptional to the point of not really being too upset that no other original members are present in the group.
Finishing the set with Tic and Miquetoast Helmet launched into a three-song encore including Sam Hell, Just Another Victim and In The Meantime. 23 songs of pure power, complexity and groove made for a perfect evening.
Helmet on a personal level are one of my favourite bands and greatest influences musically. They never seem to disappoint and always deliver a great live product. A three-year wait was well worth it, knowing we just witnessed one of the greatest live bands in the music world.
