[GIG REVIEW] SYLOSIS + ANGELMAKER @ MAX WATTS, MELBOURNE 14.02.25
Author: Mal Keecher
A balmy summer's evening in Melbourne turned into a sporadic downpour that quickly subsided, a foreshadowing metaphor for the ensuing subterranean sonic cyclone. Tonight, the aptly named Max Watts attracted a plethora of faithful 850-strong patrons here to witness their UK metalcore saviours– Sylosis. What unfolded was an extensively satisfying torrential onslaught of metal mania that became progressively alluring and exhilirating.
During the intermission, Queen's 'You're My Best Friend' playfully punctuated the transition between the capable Melbourne metalcore four-piece Lune and main supports– Canadian deathcore septet Angelmaker.
Photography: Jason Vidic (@vidic_images)
Photography: Jason Vidic (@vidic_images)
A contrast of ethereal and baleful sounds heralded the beginning of Angelmaker's set as the crowd whistled and clapped with excitement. Former Rings of Saturn member and new Angelmaker co-lead vocalist Ian Bearer complemented Casey Tyson-Pearce's proficiency and they both hit the mark every time with interchangeably visceral vocals.
Photography: Jason Vidic (@vidic_images)
"Fuck yes, Melbourne!" Casey beamed, before launching into a track off their self-titled 2019 release Angelmaker. "This is a song about some dark fuckin' violence, this one is called 'Bloodthirster' he declared." Angelmaker worked their way through such haymakers as 'Hollow Heart', 'Suffer Forever' and 'Lazarus' from 2022's Sanctum album.
"Let's see this pit fuckin' move!" Casey insisted as the increasingly animated pit swirled like the eye of a storm–calm, yet kinetic enough to threaten calamity.
'A Dark Omen' was introduced, and this doom-laden deathcore performance was altogether enchanting and electrifying. Angelmaker’s most popular track 'Leech' had fans belting out the lyrics "you're a fucking coward! No pity for the weak!"
Photography: Jason Vidic (@vidic_images)
Aside from Ian Bearer, this was Angelmaker's first time experiencing Australian audiences, and by all reports, the feeling has been mutually reverential. Casey's post-show instagram (@lesserbeast) read "First time in Australia, and all my expectations have been greatly exceeded. The response has been unbelievably positive, and we all definitely want to come back and do this again and again!
Photography: Jason Vidic (@vidic_images)
After a seven year absence while in Architects, the persistently prolific Josh Middleton returned to Sylosis as their frontman. As the originator of the band, it seemed only a matter of temporal forces before he would be pulled back into the lead role.
Photography: Jason Vidic (@vidic_images)
A half hour wait seemed a lengthy spell and this further increased the anticipation as the suitably toned- down PA treated us to a personal Metallica favourite– 'For Whom The Bell Tolls.' This song choice primed the audience and charged the atmosphere as many chanted along to its chorus.
Having been sufficiently roused by Lune and Angelmaker, this crowd were once again instantly energized and reanimated. As thunderous drums resounded care of Ali Richardson and the amps fired to life, Josh let out his brand of benign fury with a "Let's fucking go!" to kick off with 'Empty Prophets' from their album Cycle of Suffering.
Photography: Jason Vidic (@vidic_images)
Conor Marshall showcased a quintessentially 'metal' spectacle, aside from his proficiency on rhythm guitar, Conor admirably swung his lengthy locks resolutely for much of the set.
Photography: Jason Vidic (@vidic_images)
A generally steadfast but enraptured audience were captivated by Josh and band who managed to beguile the attention of this mostly black-clad Melbourne crowd.
"Let's keep this energy going...this is 'Pariahs'...nobody standing still!" Josh implores to a slightly subdued crowd. The momentum shifts and we see the first of three crowd surfers during Sylosis' set tonight while this track bounds along with persistent pace.
Altogether raspy and rhythmic, fervent and ferocious, Sylosis' cohesion as a band appeared predominantly unrivalled on this Friday evening. "I wanna see a circle pit as big as this floor...this is 'I Sever'" Josh roars. And the eye of the storm swirls once again.
Sylosis' latest single 'The Path' was performed with enthralling energy, along with the prophetically titled 'A Sign of Things to Come'– they both served as a prime example of how well these fresh tracks translated to the live circuit. 'Conclusion of an Age', along with 'Servitude' and 'Deadwood' also proved particularly powerful standout performances.
This historic venue harnessed and crisply amplified each performance, ensuring enjoyment while fulfilling what feels like the perfect level and 'maximum wattage', without blowing the ears out. Consequently, this evening's metal has been up there with the best, serving as the pinnacle of salubriously entertaining art.
Photography: Jason Vidic (@vidic_images)
Sylosis posed jubilantly for some well-deserved victory snaps with their buzzing troupe of fans raising their triumphant horned salutes. Still reeling from Sylosis' dose of delightfully melodic metalcore, the ironically perky 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun' plays as a satiated swathe disembarked the dungeon onto Swanston St.
This five- date Australian tour concludes at The Triffid Brisbane on Sunday 16th February.
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