The Canadian southern hardcore sounds of Cancer Bats was an interesting support choice for the predominantly "scene"-favoured Bring Me the Horizon. Judging by the looks on the majority of teens in attendance, they mustn't be an "in" band; regardless, the foursome played a blistering set that harked back to a particularly thrashy punk sound. Frontman Liam Cormier's growl never let up, tearing through tracks from both Birthing the Giant and Hail Destroyer; 'Deathsmarch' and 'Hail Destroyer' from the latter release were highlights. What really sets Cancer Bats apart from the pack is their clear devotion to their sound; they are evidently not a band to tailor their appearance or music to appeal to any current trends. Also known for their dedication to their fan base and approachability, Cormier backed this up by coming out to the merch table immediately following their set to hang out and sell shirts.
Judging by the screams that filtered throughout the Roundhouse at the first appearance of frontman Oli Sykes, it was evident that Bring Me the Horizon (or perhaps Sykes' dreamboat status) was the obvious drawcard for the masses of teens in attendance. While it was a little unnerving to see 14-year-old girls walking around with t-shirts that bore the catchphrase "I partied naked with Bring Me the Horizon", it was undeniable that the five-piece are capable of tearing a venue to shreds. From opener 'Diamonds Aren't Forever' through to the hugely popular closer 'Chelsea Smile', BMtH incited nothing short of a riot. With bone-crushing hardcore breakdowns tumbling into aggressive, dark spurts of metal, Sykes and his troupe brought brutality back to the kids.
While incredibly accomplished as musicians it's still a little, well, lame to hear Sykes bark mid-set: "Who here loves drinking alcohol?" Yeah we get it, you're badass; I guess as a band that are relatively fresh out of their teens themselves, it's forgivable behaviour. Teaming up with Cancer Bats' Cormier as he guest-sang on 'Death Breath' towards the latter half of the set, the deathcore dreamboats rounded out the night with 'Suicide Season' as encore, a slightly more melodic song, perhaps to appease the parents patiently waiting outside to pick up the kids after a hard night's mosh.
Mike Jeffery
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