Making Monsters with support from Death of a Salesman, Heel of Achilles & Black Chapels
Monday 2nd May 2016 – Empire Music Hall, Belfast
Belfast’s historic Empire hosted a four band bill made up from bands from the heavier end of the spectrum to finish off the Bank Holiday weekend.
Unfortunately due to a last minute change of stage times I only managed to catch the last two songs from openers Black Chapels. However enough was heard of their stoner sound to want to hear more the next time, with excellent dual guitar work and drumming on display.
Heel Of Achilles don’t hang around once all 5 have arrived on the small stage. Some chugging metalcore riffs drown out the bass and backing vocals during the opening song. New single ‘Scarecrows’ sees Gavin Brown join the band to add some impressive screams. Still a young band, a few tunes never really go anywhere and end abruptly-no doubt they are talented musicians, but there is a sense of it all looking and feeling slightly forced.
Death Of A Salesman‘s frontman introduces the band by dedicating the night to Celine Dion. Certainly no sign of her influence in their music though, with ‘Cosmos’ and ‘Checkmate’ sounding ferocious. Singer Aidan Thompson owns the stage throughout. And the floor. And the balcony. Comment is made regarding the mixed bill-the band were undoubtedly the heaviest band on offer, and ‘Your Destination’ is introduced as “our love song”. It’s nothing of the sort obviously, its frenetic pace showcasing the considerable talents of bassist RC and drummer Rory Gould.
