Photo: Helen Alwan

Self-proclaimed death metal maelstrom Defamer unquestionably live up to their reputation. Blinding shredded riffs are intricately executed over James Geekie’s relentless double-kicked rhythms. The modest but vocal early crowd nods its collective head as the vocalist alternates between screaming, grunting and hair-windmilling. These five locals have made considerable progress since their 2006 inception; their tight performance tonight is indicative of greater success to come.

Sunshine Coast-based grindcore five-piece Excruciate perform to a considerably larger audience, but their style provokes a noticeably muted crowd response. Two vocalists prowl the stage amid the sonic mayhem, but it’s unfortunate that the drummer’s snare is tuned to St. Anger. The resultant aural pain is so great that we have to leave the room; the Pantera soundtrack in the venue’s antechamber is much more enjoyable. 

Psychadelic metal gods Alchemist are in devastating form tonight. Hailing from Canberra and possessing a vast, widely-celebrated back catalogue, they waste no time in making up for infrequent Brisbane visits. Yoni Kunda from 1995’s Lunasphere is a highlight, but an epic performance of Chinese Whispers serves as the set’s wildly impressive centrepiece. Rodney Holder’s pounding double kicks drive the swirling, delayed guitars; Adam Agius’ piercing chorus scream is unforgettable. 2000’s brilliant Organasm record is represented by Austral Spectrum and Single Sided. This reviewer could scarcely have asked for a more powerful and stirring first live Alchemist experience. Here’s hoping they’ll get the chance to replicate their 2003 support slot for September’s forthcoming Opeth tour.

ANDREW MCMILLEN

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