From Autumn To Ashes, Leeds Cockpit
Had I been a true internet based writer this review would have reached you lot* sooner. Laptops and wireless modems would have allowed me to publish my fine work from my weekend break, but I was having none of it, and a holiday is a holiday, so on my return, admittedly, 5 days after the event, here is my review.
Speaking to a few of the regular Leeds emo/hardcore gig-goers at tonight’s Vagrant records bash, it seems they thought I was a bit pessimistic and gave a false accord about last weeks Alexisonfire gig (if you read it and were there you probably will know what I’m going on about) – I just thought the atmosphere was bleak, Tonight I had a lot more excitement. Senses Fail are an all time favourite, and Moneen and Emanuel are bands I’d been promised would guarantee a high percent of my wage in Vagrants back pocket. So on we went…
EMANUEL entertained tonight’s early birds with a short and energetic set. These guys you could tell were thrilled to be there, full of enthusiasm and taking in the small amount of applause they got like they’d never been enjoyed before. In time this band will go further, their Early November like sound is obviously going to flourish with experience. (7)
Next up came MONEEN. These guys knew how to get things started, with the most energetic singer/guitarist I have ever witnessed live, and the most impressive contender for Andrew W.K look a like of the year on bass since Planes Mistaken For Stars, Moneen were again rushed but made more of their time. This band definitely made an impression, and when mic stands and guitars were being hurled around the stage and no-one quite knew whether or not they were going to end the set-mid destruction it wasn’t just me who was heading over to the merch table at the end out of admiration, to check out these guys recorded material. Watching the bands front man hurl himself from the top speakers stack down to the stage whilst still playing has to be one of the most impressive sights I’ve seen in this venue. (9)
Ok, here goes. Before I start, I honestly like SENSES FAIL. Tonight however, they were simply awful. Musically things were ok, but where front man Buddy Nielsen began thinking he could get away with singing like he did is beyond me. I was seriously devastated to watch the band in such poor form. Maybe a heavy touring schedule has affected him, but tonight he was flat, toneless and above all boring. He voce was un-motivating and through top quality tracks like “Cute When You Scream,” “Buried a Lie” and “187” it was a major disappointment. (4)
Last to grace the stage tonight were FROM AUTUMN TO ASHES. Clearly tonight’s more powerful act, full on and extremely raw. I always enjoy watching the drummer sing the clear bits, whilst the group’s front man screams and shouts his way through the verses. Although looking honestly at it, it becomes quite a bore and often predictable. Still, these guys have huge following and from watching tonight, it’s understandable why. (7)
* The few punktastic readers who care what we writers think
Pete
Options:»
Gig Reviews Index
