Anyone who knows me, will tell you that I have a very broad and eclectic taste in music. However, the majority of my absolute favourite artists lie somewhere on the indie/rock/pop spectrum. The Newcastle scene is incredibly tight knit, which is why I love it, but it has meant that the majority of stuff I cover is in the same (or very similar) genres.
So I decided to leave my double denim and paisley print comfort zone and go to a gig that was a genre which I have never been able to get into. Many have tried and failed miserably. I have vented many a time about how much I hate this genre and what goes on at that sort of gig.
I despise metal and I hate mosh pits - they confuse and terrify me. Why scream so people can't appreciate your lyrics? Why would you want to hurt yourself, your friends and everyone around you? Why not just dance and enjoy the music? And breathe - rant over!
Nothing quite like jumping into the deep end. Best to lose your metal gig virginity watching five bands at a venue you've never actually been to and interviewing them beforehand.
First up was Reason of Method. The band members are decent enough players individually, however I don't believe they've really gelled together yet. Maybe it was nerves or the fact the bass player was actually a mate standing in - and a drummer not a bass player! My heart went out to them a little. They tried to interact with the audience and do original songs, but their stage presence was a little awkward and they played out of time and tune a lot. And it's probably best not to talk about their diabolical cover of 'Paradise City'.
Following Reason of Method, was Black Nevada. At this point I really didn't have high expectations for the evening, but this five-piece really raised my morale. They've got a great, loud, gritty sound, delivered with masses of chaotic energy. Powerful vocals, hearty bass lines, huge riffs and great stage presence - what's not to like? I normally hate that kind of music, but I really did enjoy Black Nevada's set!
The third act of the night was Kent based group A Higher Demise. I loved and hated this band simultaneously. I'm not a fan of screaming lyrics so that you can't actually tell what they're singing. But if you're into that, you'll adore these guys. What I did love however, was the uber-catchy (almost pop punk-esque) choruses, intricate guitar riff and bold bass. They're a lot heavier than my usual taste, but I still appreciated and enjoyed their set. They were also an absolute delight to talk to!
Next up was Leopards, a fusion of big guitar riffs and even bigger personalities. Their front woman was hysterical and hands down the best singer of the night. The band's sound reminded me of Paramore, but if they came from Manchester. Basically Hayley Williams with a hearty sense of Northern wit. All their songs were really well executed and their incredibly catchy intros always managed to get me hooked. I'd happily see Leopards again.
Finally, headlining Tuesday night was the explosive Omaha. A heavy fusion of raw emotion, poignant lyrics, catchy riffs and relentless energy. Their stand out track was 'Homebound', which started with a chilled ambient sound, before being revved up with a seriously sexy bass riff, coupled with lilting vocals and mellifluous guitar. But this delicate mood soon escalated into an aggressive paroxysm, causing the crowd to headband to the beat. Omaha were the most polished performers of the night and balanced ballsy performing with amiable chatter perfectly. You can admire them as musicians whilst thinking: "I'd love to have a pint with these lads".
So there you have it. This Indie wanker actually enjoyed a metal gig. I'm far from a metal head (I'm still loyal to the Indie Hits playlist on Spotify), but this won't be the last time I go to a metal gig.
So I decided to leave my double denim and paisley print comfort zone and go to a gig that was a genre which I have never been able to get into. Many have tried and failed miserably. I have vented many a time about how much I hate this genre and what goes on at that sort of gig.
I despise metal and I hate mosh pits - they confuse and terrify me. Why scream so people can't appreciate your lyrics? Why would you want to hurt yourself, your friends and everyone around you? Why not just dance and enjoy the music? And breathe - rant over!
Nothing quite like jumping into the deep end. Best to lose your metal gig virginity watching five bands at a venue you've never actually been to and interviewing them beforehand.
First up was Reason of Method. The band members are decent enough players individually, however I don't believe they've really gelled together yet. Maybe it was nerves or the fact the bass player was actually a mate standing in - and a drummer not a bass player! My heart went out to them a little. They tried to interact with the audience and do original songs, but their stage presence was a little awkward and they played out of time and tune a lot. And it's probably best not to talk about their diabolical cover of 'Paradise City'.
Following Reason of Method, was Black Nevada. At this point I really didn't have high expectations for the evening, but this five-piece really raised my morale. They've got a great, loud, gritty sound, delivered with masses of chaotic energy. Powerful vocals, hearty bass lines, huge riffs and great stage presence - what's not to like? I normally hate that kind of music, but I really did enjoy Black Nevada's set!
The third act of the night was Kent based group A Higher Demise. I loved and hated this band simultaneously. I'm not a fan of screaming lyrics so that you can't actually tell what they're singing. But if you're into that, you'll adore these guys. What I did love however, was the uber-catchy (almost pop punk-esque) choruses, intricate guitar riff and bold bass. They're a lot heavier than my usual taste, but I still appreciated and enjoyed their set. They were also an absolute delight to talk to!
Next up was Leopards, a fusion of big guitar riffs and even bigger personalities. Their front woman was hysterical and hands down the best singer of the night. The band's sound reminded me of Paramore, but if they came from Manchester. Basically Hayley Williams with a hearty sense of Northern wit. All their songs were really well executed and their incredibly catchy intros always managed to get me hooked. I'd happily see Leopards again.
Finally, headlining Tuesday night was the explosive Omaha. A heavy fusion of raw emotion, poignant lyrics, catchy riffs and relentless energy. Their stand out track was 'Homebound', which started with a chilled ambient sound, before being revved up with a seriously sexy bass riff, coupled with lilting vocals and mellifluous guitar. But this delicate mood soon escalated into an aggressive paroxysm, causing the crowd to headband to the beat. Omaha were the most polished performers of the night and balanced ballsy performing with amiable chatter perfectly. You can admire them as musicians whilst thinking: "I'd love to have a pint with these lads".
So there you have it. This Indie wanker actually enjoyed a metal gig. I'm far from a metal head (I'm still loyal to the Indie Hits playlist on Spotify), but this won't be the last time I go to a metal gig.
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