Review by Desleigh Bycroft and Kris Peters
Pix by Sarah Gilpin Photography
Arriving at The Princess Theatre about half an hour after doors opened, I was a touch surprised to have only a small line in front of me, but took solace in the fact that would likely mean I could have my pick of a standing area to settle in for the night. But that was short lived as I pushed through the venue doors just in time to hear Sydney metal outfit Sienna Skies launch into their opening set to the sight of an already packed house with eager punters cramming almost every space of the front of house area. So much for pick of the spots…
I have interviewed Sienna Skies a number of times but never had the chance to see them live and fuck me, has it been my loss! These guys launched straight into their set, powering through a selection of metalcore infused hard rock tracks with massive, chunky breakdowns that elevated their sound even further.
The band were obviously comfortable on the big stage, delivering an entertaining, tight 30 minutes of Aussie rock/metal that proves just how much Aussie bands deserve to take their place on an international tour. Highlights of the set were a song I swear might have been written for me – Cut Me Off – and Elated, while the lads also treated us to their new song Pillow Talk which, we were told, would be out later this year.
As the lights dimmed in readiness for Blessthefall to take the stage, the crowd roared as at atmospheric type intro teased fans as they patiently waited for the show to begin. And begin it did as a tasty bit of reverb soon gave way to a massive drum roll and Blessthefall exploded onto the stage fully intent on making up for lost time.
Frontman Beau Bokan addressed the crowd, barking “Brisbane, let’s get this party started” and bass player/harsh vocalist Jared Warth dutifully obliged, tearing into You Wear A Crown But You Aint No King as Bokan flew straight out to the barriers, engaging the crowd and urging them to bounce – numerous times.
Bokan owned the stage from the outset, spinning from one side to the other, frequently bouncing between the barrier and the drum riser as the rest of the band went about ripping Brisbane a new one as they etched out CutThroat, Hollow Bodies and 2.0 in rapid succession amid a plethora of massive breakdowns that hit with a thud on every occassion.
Circle pits started haphazardly as the crowd hung on the band’s every word, singing – and sometimes yelling – in opportune moments without provocation. As generally happens at a metal show, it didn’t take long before the first crowd surfer made their way to the front, and Bokan rushed to greet him, shaking his hand and welcoming him to the party.
Having recently released their new album Gallows, Blessthefall worked two fresh cuts into the set, with Mallxcore and Venom fitting in effortlessly amongst the bands more recognised material. Finishing with Wake The Dead and Hey Baby, Here’s That Song You Wanted, Blessthefall promised it would not be another nine years between visits, and I, for one, plan to hold them to that…
And then it was time for the main event and despite having only been out here last year MEMPHIS MAY FIRE hit the stage as though they had a point to prove. Performing a killer set consisting of 16 songs from past and present albums, this metalcore outfit from Texas kicked arse! Singer MATTY MULLINS effortlessly switches between aggressive harsh vocals to softer, more melodic, clean vocals on most songs, showcasing opposing sides of his musical persona with an ease and smoothness that few vocalists can manage.
KELLEN MCGREGOR – the only original member – bassist CORY ELDER and drummer JAKE GARLAND were tight and rocked with an intensity that captivated the crowd from the moment they hit the stage, ensuring tonight was no one man show with a supporting cast.
With atmospheric lighting and 4 CO2 cannons firing plumes of thick light fog during most songs, the stage really was set for a memorable night. MMF fired up the crowd with their first song PARALYZED and then launched straight into the title track from their latest album SHAPESHIFTER. BLEED ME DRY had everyone singing, before SOMEBODY, with its atmospheric lighting and slower paced, more melodic sound provided somewhat of a refreshing breather after such a hectic start to proceedings.
Mullins became reflective while appreciating the Brisbane crowds enthusiastic interaction. In a special moment, he relayed that he has a lot of family and friends who would never be able to visit our beautiful country and that he does not take the privilege of coming here to bring us their music for granted. He said it was a gift he will never be able to describe.
Back to the music! MISERY renewed the slower pace before LEFT FOR DEAD provided a return to the heavier sound, followed with BY THE OVERSIDE, a more mainstream track full of melodies and introspection. INFECTION, OVERDOSE and THE SINNER followed before VICES showcased MCGREGOR‘S squealing guitar sound and MULLINS’ harsh vocals.
A standout for me the final song of the set proper, LOVE IS WAR, set on a darkened stage that gradually highlighted a lone MULLINS singing slowly and softly before the rest of the band returned to stage as the song intensified and broke into heavy guitar, bass and vocals.
Time for three encores…
THE FIGHT WITHIN was first up, followed by BLOOD AND WATER which was obviously a crowd favourite, revitalising a worn out crowd who had moshed and bounced for nearly three hours straight by now. MATTY MULLINS declared it is a night he will never forget before asking the crowd for one last favour… to lose their voice with him and sing the last song before launching into CHAOTIC.
So, did MEMPHIS MAY FIRE bring the fire to Brisbane’s Princess Theatre????
DAMN RIGHT THEY DID!
