Devolution Magazine are gearing up for a big weekend in Oxford as it’s time for the annual Rabidfest and the main stage will be resplendent with our logo. But first, a warm-up at Oxford’s fantastic Jericho Tavern; a wicked lineup promises to thrill us and set the stage for an unforgettable weekend!
Up first is the streetwise hardcore wrecking machine that is Eliminate The Middle Class, whose singer delivers the entire set from the floor giving their set an uncompromising confrontational energy. I’d definitely keep your eyes on this mob in the future!
Next up is the perfect warm up for the headliners, Crosspaths, these guys have festival pleaser written all over them with hip hop vibe interludes and a tongue firmly in their cheek. Bouncy vibes mix with crushing riffs and a keen sense of groove that gets the crowd grinning from ear to ear. This is a band I can see supporting Skindred one day maybe or definitely as a marriage made in heaven with Water Lines.
The Crushing bring more traditional heavy metal fare, with their singer explaining that one of their songs is about 19th Century working conditions but it’s still good fun, we are assured. This is the band’s return after a bit of time out, but you couldn’t tell as the band is tight and bang on target.
Headlining tonight is the band that’s been on everyone’s tip for the top list for a while, Seething Akira. This is crossover dance metal done right. The band obviously know their bass music alongside their hardcore metal and it’s absolutely infectious. Their energy in this smaller venue gives the venue a sweaty rave quality albeit with a moshpit thrown in. Their two vocal attack is potent and older tracks like Punishment Instructions and more recent cuts like Ixnay from their excellent Cancel Estate album land like nailbombs in this, now very sweaty venue. If this is the warmup, what will tomorrow bring?
Review & Photography By George Miller – https://www.facebook.com/oneflamemedia
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