Deafheaven live in Sydney – photos and review
Deafheaven Unleashed a relentless assault on Sydney’s Metro Theatre, anticipating an epic Dark Mofo debut. Adam Davis-Powell was there to review and photograph:
Deafheaven, the genre-defying masters of black metal and shoegaze, once again proved their dominance as they stormed Sydney’s Metro Theatre, leaving no doubt that they are at the forefront of their craft. Having witnessed their awe-inspiring performances on every Australian tour, I can confidently say that each time they take the stage, they surpass all expectations and continue to elevate their artistry to new heights.
Kicking off the night was Melbourne’s own metalcore powerhouse, RUN. Taking the stage just an hour after the doors opened, the band commanded the attention of a near-full room. Their sound harkened back to the music that shaped my early 2000s, reminiscent of the metalcore I grew up with. Lochlan Watt, the band’s lead singer, who also hosts The Racket on triple j, exuded a commanding yet calming presence, effortlessly towering over the audience and foldback monitors. RUN’s exceptional sound and stage presence have firmly secured their spot on bills across Australia, and they are definitely a band to keep a close eye on.
Next up was Closure in Moscow from Melbourne, their post-prog-psych-hardcore-brainfuck fusion that can only be described as a pre-teen ADHD mangled charade. The musicianship displayed by each member was nothing short of mind-blowing, and their shared looks of pure happiness on stage were infectious. It was evident that every member was a master of their trade, effortlessly weaving intricate melodies and rhythms into a cohesive and captivating performance.
But the night belonged to the Cali headliners themselves, Deafheaven. This marked their fourth Australian tour in nine years, and the devoted following they have amassed in this country is truly astonishing. The audience was a diverse mix of people from all backgrounds, united by their love for the music. Deafheaven treated the crowd to a dynamic setlist, carefully curating a selection of fan favourites from their entire discography. Opening and closing with the explosive anthems “Black Brick” and “Dream House,” the band captivated the audience from start to finish.
The atmosphere was electrifying as Deafheaven flawlessly merged the raw aggression of black metal with the ethereal beauty of shoegaze. George Clarke’s commanding stage presence, combined with the band’s intense and precise instrumentation, created a sonic experience that transcended genres.
The sheer energy and emotion pouring from the stage were palpable, infecting
the crowd with an exhilarating sense of euphoria.
For those lucky enough to catch Deafheaven at Dark Mofo, prepare yourselves for an unforgettable and mind-bending experience. This band’s ability to defy expectations and push the boundaries of their genre is unparalleled, and their live performances are nothing short of cathartic. Deafheaven’s relentless assault on the senses will leave you breathless, and their music will resonate with you long after the final notes fade into the night.
Check a wee snapshot of the show below, produced by From the Pit for Birds Robe.
Review and photos by Adam Davis-Powell.
