It seems so long ago that I last saw Killswitch Engage on the very first ‘Taste Of Chaos’ tour. Something that has now become such a part of the autumn touring cycle that its and almost guaranteed sell-out.
This year had what can be perhaps be called the tour ‘heaviest’ line-up (not because the band’s have any more members or that those members are fat just that they are defined as ‘heavy). Opening up were southernrockmetalsludgegodknowswhattheyarebuttheysoundawesome Maylene and the Sons of Disaster. Returning to the UK for the first time in nearly two years the band seem to have missed us (f**k knows why?! We have crap weather and a pain in the arse music scene) but nonetheless they certainly present an enjoyable half hour of whatever it is that they play. [7/10]
Next were the shambles that are Every Time I Die..highlighting the main problem for all the bands tonight ETID lose any of their impact in the sheer size of the venue. Whilst energetic their songs blend into one loud mess and lose all impact. [3/10]
In Flames play what is perhaps a generic yet surprising satisfying show. With the addition of ‘Architects Of The Black Rain’ to the normal collection of tracks Anders is the masterful frontman. Whilst the light-show is distinctly stripped down compared to their immense Wacken display with scenes and pyro etc the Swedes are tight and on top of their game. [8/10]
And now for the main event..well supposedly…KsE are one of the best bands of the last decade and tonight could’ve meant so much more. With a set that highlights the contrast in quality and impact between old and new Adam D’s stage banter is growing tiresome we know that he’s going to ‘f**k our mothers with a bowling ball’ he told us that last time (and every time before). The band just vanish in the immense stage. Slipknot‘s performance here last year was only as impressive as it was because of the size of the stage set-up and band members who actually knew what they were doing..As for Killswitch..[9/10] for the old stuff..about 5 for the new..Such a shame.
Mr Bogle
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