Categories
Gallery Geen categorie Reviews

THRICE: The Artist In The Ambulance 20th Anniversary Tour (Photoreport)

Reaching the stage where a band can do 20th Album Anniversary tour is always a big accomplishment. Having this tour be sold out months prior to the shows only proves the band’s greatness. THRICE have not only kept their relevance throughout the past 25 years, they keep raising the musical standards as well.

California’s very own post-hardcore band, Thrice, have celebrated 20 year anniversary of their hugely successful album Artist In The Ambulance. Even if you haven’t heard of the band, chances are you have heard a song from this album. The album’s title track, The Artist In The Ambulance, is still one of their most popular songs 21 years later. With over 56 Million Spotify streams, it is currently Thrice’s second most played song on the platform.

The decision to celebrate this album with a 20th Anniversary tour had delighted Thrice fans across the world. Following hugely successful US and Australian tour in 2023, Thrice have now made their presence know in Europe and UK. Numerous sold-out shows across the continent were no surprise, following the trend of their past tours.

Bristol’s biggest non-arena venue, The Marble Factory, welcomed Thrice with a loud sold-out crowd. Moshing guaranteed when hits like Silhouette, Stare At The Sun or Under A Killing Moon made their comebacks. After playing The Artis In The Ambulance in its entirety, Thrice continued their set with multiple fan favourites. There’s no surprise Black Honey or The Earth Will Shake always make their way onto the setlist. The whole night was packed with a it after hit, and the crowd wasn’t seen standing still for a second.

As with many bands, Thrice may have changed theirs sound over the years. However, the quality has never ceased. A room full of people singing along to all songs – whether they were written in recent years or two decades ago. A proof of one’s timelessness. Passion, skills as well as pure talent make Thrice into one of a kind.

Having been part of the scene for 25 years, Thrice may be a bit of a hidden gem within the genre. Possibly unknown to some, once they appear in your field of view they are almost guaranteed to stay. The spectacular vocals of Dustin Kensrue, accompanied by the musical talent of Eddie Breckenridge (bass), Riley Breckenridge (drums), and Teppei Teranishi (guitar, backing vocals) are guaranteed to impress.

Maybe it’s their niche presence that makes for much more loyal fanbase. Sometimes you don’t need lengthy speeches to capture a big audience. And Thrice are certainly pros at entertaining and impressing people with their presence as well as musical talents.

A stage with simple vertical light poles made for a moody vibe Thrice is known for. Some bands may rely on complex stage visuals and bright vibrant lighting, but not Thrice. There is something incredibly charming about a band that can rely on their incredible sound and lyrics to lure their audience in. It’s almost like Thrice come with no frills yet at impressively high standard. What you see (and hear) is what you get. The astounding vocals you can hear on the radio are the same sounds you get to hear live. And for the non believers, Thrice have rerecorded The Artist In The Ambulance last year. Give it a listen and you will know exactly what it sounds like being at a Thrice show.

That being said, having seen Thrice numerous times over the years, it’s hard to expect them to outperform themselves. Yet, Thrice somehow always manage, and I cannot wait to see what the band brings next.

Photos by Kris Kimlickova

Categories
Discover Short News

Don Broco ‘s Highly Anticipated UK Tour: What’s in Store

Having headlined arenas around the UK earlier this year, Don Broco are ready to party again in a more intimate setting! Set to kick off this week in Reading, The Birthday Party Tour will bring the best of both worlds to all corners of the country- intimacy of smaller venues along with the high standard for live shows Don Broco are renowned for, this tour is not to be missed!

Don Broco’s long streak of successful shows only seems to get longer and more impressive. Having just came back from their massive 23-date headline tour around the US and Canada, it’s no surprise they were able to sell out numerous shows including the ones in LA and New York.

Earlier this year, you might have had the pleasure of catching them live in some of the most iconic British venues. Having played the giant stages of Ally Pally or Cardiff’s Motorpoint arena, the British rockers are back on the UK roads.

As Don Broco continue to conquer the UK music scene, their upcoming tour promises to bring something for everyone. Their latest album, Amazing Things, went #1 in the UK charts last year, and fans can expect to hear a mix of old and new tracks that won’t leave you standing still.

The band had announced a third London date last month after selling out both original London shows at KOKO. So don’t miss out! Get your tickets here while you can, and we shall see you in the crowd!

Written by Kris Kimlickova

Categories
Geen categorie Reviews

RISE AGAINST: “It wouldn’t be a Rise show, if we didn’t have our fists in the air!” (Live Review)

After 5 long years, London was round for a long-awaited performance by the renowed punk-rockers Rise Against, at no other place than the most legendary London venue. The Brixton Academy was electric on November 21 as Rise Against took the stage for an unforgettable night of music.

From the moment they stepped onstage, the band had the sold-out crowd in the palm of their hand. Lead singer Tim McIlrath, backed by bassist Joe Principe, Zach Blair on the guitar, and drummer Brandon Barnes, delivered a performance we won’t be forgetting for a while. The crowd was filled with energy and excitement as the band opened with their hit single “Re-Education (Through Labour)”.

The Chicago-based rockers, who have been a mainstay in the punk rock genre since their formation in 1999, didn’t miss a beat as they tore through a high energy set. Five thousand people lucky enough to witness the capturing performance that Rise Against brought to London on their current NOWHERE GENERATION European Tour didn’t miss their chance at jumping and singing along. A powerful set that showcased the band’s impressive musical talent. One can only call this a testament to their longevity and how they continue to bring their unique sound to life.

“It wouldn’t be a Rise show if we didn’t have our fists in the air!”

“Say it with me, RISE! RISE! RISE! RISE!”

– Rise Against lead, Tim McIlrath

Lead singer Tim McIlrath’s voice was in top-notch form as he sang the lyrics that have become an anthem for so many of us. The band followed up with a string of hits from their extensive discography, including “Savior” and “Prayer of the Refugee”. The hard-hitting lyrics and politically charged sound Rise Against is so well known for had the audience screaming and singing along to every song. A heartfelt acoustic version of “Swig Life Away” left the crowd singing along in unison with passion that was truly infectious, and ensured the emotion was tangible in the entire room.

Brixton Academy, one of the most famous venues not only in England, had the pleasure to host this fabulous spectacle of a show. A gorgeous venue is simply asking for great acts, and Rise against certainly didn’t disappoint. Their stage presence, the impressive lighting and visuals, and ever-present fists in the air have all only added to the overall atmosphere of the show.

The band also gave some of their deeper cuts the spotlight, playing fan-favourites like “Satellite” and “Hero of War”. Lead singer Tim McIlrath was in fine form, belting out vocals with a signature mix of aggression and emotion. The band even took a moment to thank the audience for their support “I want to thank you for being so patient,” McIlrath said, “This is why we keep coming back to London, it’s one of our favourite places.”

Rise Aganist’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, and it was clear that the band had put their heart and soul into every song. We may have had to wait 5 years for the band to return to the UK’s capital, but good things come to those who wait. And in the case of Rise Against, good is an understatement.

Rise Against 2022 UK/European tour with The Story So Far as support act

Written by Kris Kimlickova

Categories
Gallery

Enter Shikari rock Bristol O2 Academy on their Headline tour (Gallery)

One of the UK’s best Rock bands, Enter Shikari, are back on the road headlining UK’s best venues. And with Dinosaur Pile-Up, Nova Twins, Lacey and Holding Absence as their support, there will certainly be no time to stop moshing.

Enter Shikari have kicked off their Nothing Is True & Everything Is Possible UK Tour, and we had the pleasure to mosh with them in Bristol on 9th December. The band are undoubtedly one of the best live bands, so we hope you didn’t miss out! But if you did (or just want to relive the euphoria), we snapped some shots at the Bristol O2 Academy.

Enter Shikari continue their UK tour until the end of December, so grab your tickets while you can!

Photos by Kris Kimlickova

Categories
Gallery Reviews

TWIN ATLANTIC: Cardiff finally gets its turn with the Scottish rockers (Tramshed, 24/08)

After having to postpone their 2020 Cardiff show (along with the rest of the tour) merely few hours before its start, Scottish rockers in Twin Atlantic are back! With their newest album Bang On The Gong, Twin Atlantic brought an incredible energy to the welsh capital. There was no doubt that the whole crowd had a great time from start to finish – beginning with Bloxx, London natives who have been supporting Twin Atlantic on the second part of their tour. And they surely made the crowd ready for the headliners. First mosh pits of 2021 and hits like ‘Barcelona’, ‘Crash Land’ or ‘Novocaine’ rocked Cardiff’s legendary venue to its core.

Check out our Gallery from the show:
All photos by Kris Kimlickova

Bloxx

Written by Kris Kimlickova

Categories
Short News

BRING ME THE HORIZON heading on their only UK shows of 2021

Bring Me The Horizon are back! Heading across the UK on their arena tour this September, bringing along some very special guests in You Me At Six and Nova Twins, you certainly don’t wanna miss out! Get your tickets here, while they last.

BRIT and Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum-selling quintet Bring Me The Horizon is one of the most electrifying and successful rock bands to emerge from the UK. The group released their gold-certified sixth studio album, amo, in 2019, which debuted at Number 1 in 17 markets and garnered the band their second Grammy nomination for ‘Best Rock Album’ after the LP’s first single, “MANTRA,” earned them a nod for ‘Best Rock Song’ in 2018. The Sheffield 5-piece also received their first BRIT Award nomination for ‘Best Group’ this year. Bring Me The Horizon has sold over 4 million albums globally to date, played sold-out shows in over 40 countries, including two sold out nights at London’s O2

Categories
Discover Festival Short News

ALT+LDN: New London Festival Brings Alternative Hip-Hop and Rock Music to Clapham Common

Alternative rock and hip-hop collide in a brand new festival on Clapham Common. London, get ready for ALT+LDN!

Bank Holiday Monday got even more excited with the announcement of a first alternative rock & hip hop festival in London. Taking place on August 30th 2021 on Clapham Common, don’t miss out your chance to see the best of the best. With headliners including Playboi Carti, MGK or british metlacore favourites Architects, there’s a lot to pick from.

Stay tuned for more band announcements and get your tickets here!

See full line-up here.

Categories
Gallery Music

Photoreport: Testament @ O2 Academy Bristol (England, UK) 3/3/20

The legendary trash metal giants Testament made a stop in Bristol on their current UK/EU tour and we were there!

Check out the photos below.

Photos and words by Kris Kimlickova

Categories
Gallery Reviews

Goo Goo Dolls @ Roundhouse (London, UK) 27/2/20

We cought the legendary American band Goo Goo Dolls last Thursday in London, where they finished off the UK leg of their Miracle Pill Tour.

The sold out Roundhouse show was packed with people of all ages. It’s amazing when a band can bring together multiple generations, having parents with their kids all enjoying the same music together.

We’re gonna do some like rock ‘n’ roll cliché bullshit cause you fucking love it!

Photos by Kris Kimlickova

Having released 12 sudio albums, a 23 song set list ensured a mix of the best, and took us on a ride through times. Playing all the hits like ‘Iris’ or ‘Name’, as well as songs from their newest album ‘Miracle Pill’, the crowd had a great time through it all. Whether it was during the song ‘Black Balloon’ where houndreads of (yes you guessed it) black balloons fell down onto the crowd. Or singing ‘You can make it on a wish if you want to’ with the resto of the crowd all over again until you couldn’t help yourself but to feel So Alive.

“This is a new song. So if you don’t

know it, fake it.”

And even though this might sound like a cliché, the highlight of the night came indeed during the song we all know.
Because having 3.200 people come together and sing ‘Iris’ together at the top of their lungs, that is indeed an unforgettable experience.
A bucket-list-checked experience.

I overheard a conversation of fellow concert-goers after the show – “I only knew a few of those songs. But they are SUCH a good live band, I didn’t even care. The show was SO good”

And I think that pretty much sums it up. Whoever you are. Whether you’ve been listening to the band since you were a kid, or maybe the only song you know is Iris. But if you go to The Goo Goo Dolls’ show, I’d be surprised if you didn’t have a great night! So don’t miss out the next time they’re in town!

The band is currently on tour after releasing their newest album ‘Miracle Pill’, and you can catch them on the US leg of the tour throughout the summer.

Photos and Words by Kris Kimlickova

Photos and Words by Kris Kimlickova

Categories
Gallery Music Reviews

Review: Anti-Flag @ O2 Academy Islington (London, UK)

Tuesday night is a party night! Well, not always, but February 4th certainly proved that to be true (at least for anyone at the Islington Academy)!

American punk rock band from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, made a stop in London on their current EU/UK tour on support of their newest album ’20/20 Vision’.

Review: Anti-Flag @ O2 Academy Islington (London, UK)
Photo: Kris Kimlickova

And with a band like Anti-Flag, known for its politically charged lyrics and activism, there was no doubt the show would be filled with them voicing their opinions on these topics. This proved to be true even before the headliner came on stage. The Creepshow, a canadian psychobilly band, that’s been supporting Anti-flag on this tour, joked about the UK’s hottest issues – Brexit and the Royal Family.

“We are Canadian and we’re accepting immigration applications for after Brexit. We’ve already got three – Prince Harry, Meghan, and the baby. Come join us! You can all fit in our van.”

Being lucky enough to have seen Anti-Flag multiple times in the past few years, I personaly don’t think they are capable of dissapointing. We might as well make that into a scientific fact. I mean, not one of the shows I’ve seen over the years was short on any of the aspects that make a good show. High quality music? Check. Contagious energy? Check. The entire crowd having the best of times? Triple check.

Review: Anti-Flag @ O2 Academy Islington (London, UK)
Photo: Kristina Kimlickova

I don’t think London has ever seen this many jumps. Ever. Well, at least not since the Summer Olympics in 2012.
But anyways. The energy Anti-Flag brought to the Islington Academy was undescripable. However, moshpits, sweat, and “middlefingers in the goddamn sky” surely speak for themselves. And you know it’s a good show when even the bar staff (and other people who simply need to be there whether they like the music or not) are singing along, banging their heads to the music, and genuenly having a great time.


“I had very high expectations and right now I’m having so much fucking fun with you! So thanks for being here.”


My mom would most likely not approve of the band’s use of swear words, not realizing however, that they are actually flipping off all the bad in the world. And I have so much respect for a band that uses their voice to help build a better world (no matter how many varieties fo the word ‘fuck’ they use in the process).

“Tearing down walls instead of building them up, that’s when we build a better world.”

But don’t get me wrong! It all goes perfectly with who the band is, as well as what they stands for. And there is certainly not many things better than being able to chant “Fuck police” at the top of your lungs with a room full people. In a room with no space for racism, sexism, homophobia, xenophobia, war or anything else.

“Dance away the bullshit! Dance away the violance! Dance away the fear!

Photos and Words by Kris Kimlickova