Ah, pre-Christmas gigs. Lovely to have a few beers and get warm and cozy.
Tonight, we’re at the Camden Barfly, and kicking off with HOSPITALS, we’re fully aware early on that we’re in for a great night. The band’s sound isn’t exactly flattering, and the set feels a bit rushed in places, but despite that the band kick off the evening in fine style and we’re looking forward to catching the hardcore mob in the near future.
Next, THE MIRE take to the stage, and they’re (arguably) more suited to tonight’s headliners. Far more reserved tempo-wise, the band are a great new discovery for such a late stage in the year – and despite the fact their half an hour zips by without much in the way of ground breaking melodic metal, it’s enjoyable nonetheless.
Finally, and though it’s barely 9pm, DEVIL SOLD HIS SOUL come in to finish the night off. Tonight, the band play a gigantic set that spans their entire back catalogue, but it’s songs from latest album ‘Blessed & Cursed’ that shines brightest.
That said, the newer material bodes incredibly well for their forthcoming album, and despite the fact the vocals are a little strained in places tonight, a sold out Barfly genuinely couldn’t give a shit and it’s a great performance to round off the band’s year.
TOM AYLOTT