Live Review : Kill The Lights + I Am The Wreckage + Dekaytah + Torchbearer @ The Star & Garter, Manchester on April 26th 2024

Transatlantic metal supergroup Kill The Lights are currently touring on the back of their new album “Death Melodies” and it’s a real treat to catch them in such an intimate venue such as The Star & Garter in Manchester. We manage to get an interview with vocalist James and drummer Moose before the gig (you can watch that here), and we’re promised songs both new and old from the now established and polished metal titans.

Tonight’s gig kicks off with Torchbearer, hailing from South Wales, who unleash a sonic onslaught that deftly melds furiously heavy hardcore punk with a melodic rockiness. It allows for an intense and engaging sound that is tricky to pigeonholed. They do however clearly draw inspiration from a diverse array of influences, a testament to their eclectic tastes and creativity.

There are elements of classic metal bands seeping through the cracks, intertwining seamlessly with the raw energy of hardcore influences like Cancer Bats and Every Time I Die. The result is a sound that’s both familiar and refreshing, appealing to the crowd with a dynamic range and emotive depth. They’re particularly alluring for any fans of big, dirty riffs. Trust me. It's a sentiment that resonates clearly with the audience tonight, I guess you could say Torchbearer have ignited the stage…ahem. 

Second on, we have the curious world of Dekaytah. The band's sound is a curious blend, reminiscent of Harbinger but lacking the technical finesse. The guitars seem somewhat out of place compared to the rest of the band, clinging to old-school vibes while attempting to merge with the band's overall musical aesthetic. However, there's an undeniable swagger reminiscent of Kublai Kai that permeates their set, adding a layer of intrigue to the experience. 

Despite the occasional disjointedness, Dekaytah deliver a heavy, fast, and undeniably quirky brand of metal that leaves a lasting impression. As the set progresses, the final song emerges with a distinct Biohazard flavour, serving as a bold punctuation mark to their performance. Fans of Fit For An Autopsy and Decapitated may find something intriguing in their sonic experimentation, making it worth their while to delve into varied world of Dekaytah.

Main support is the excellent I Am The Wreckage who strike up on the stage with their unmistakably punky fervour that gradually drags the crowd back into the room and provides a shot of energy. The vocals carry a distinct Keith Buckley (of Many Eyes & ex-ETID) vibe, and the whole band are reminiscent of the style and intensity of Cancer Bats. Their set kicks off with a fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled opener that sets the tone for the entire set.

You can't help but be drawn in by the wild antics of the excitable bassist, adding an extra layer of madness to the already frenetic atmosphere. The discordant guitars weave a tapestry of sonic chaos, echoing shades of ETID, but carving out a unique space in their own punk landscape. There’s definitely plenty of gritty energy akin to Malevolence, yet amidst the sonic onslaught I Am The Wreckage retain focus, precision and swagger. They maintain the jagged, raw essence of their slashing hardcore punk roots mixed effortlessly with metal sensibilities. I Am The Wreckage have proven to me that they’re a force to be reckoned with, leaving the crowd exhilarated and hungry for more.

Headliners Kill The Lights take to the stage and immediately echoes of Avenged Sevenfold resonate through the air, with anthemic choruses, catchy metal, and wickedly galloping rhythms infusing many of their tracks. Fans of Killswitch Engage, and Rockflesh favourites The Five Hundred, will find a kindred spirit in their sound. Tonight, with just a core quartet taking the stage sans Jordan, the energy remains undiminished. Bassist Jay's harsh vocals are stunning tonight, while James Clark effortlessly transitions between superb cleans and gritty vocals. The drums from Moose are unsurprisingly forceful and meaty, providing a solid and dynamic foundation, while the guitars, though sometimes buried in the mix, shine brilliantly during the moments they're heard. And my word you can sure hear them during the ludicrously impressive guitar solos from Travis that leave jaws on the floor.

For me, the lead vocals by James Clark arguably steal the show, evoking memories of 36 Crazyfists and Taproot. His delivery is a potent blend of raw power and soulful twang, captivating the audience from start to finish. As the set progresses, it becomes evident that the band has honed their sound to perfection now, secure in their sound and songs, showcasing both pedigree and craftsmanship. With James boldly crowd-surfing while belting out the lyrics to 'The Faceless', the performance reaches a crescendo of excitement and pure rock energy. It's a truly enjoyable experience, leaving no doubt that this band is poised for success.

Check the “In The Flesh” page for more photos!
Kill The Lights, I Am The Wreckage, Dekaytah, Torchbearer