Paint It Black/Ceremony

Le Pub Newport
27th September 2009

This gig was unmissable. It promised so much and it delivered. Two bands who have taken different styles to the limit and still show signs of stretching further and taking hardcore to new places. Complete contrasts too. Paint It Black have intent that is crystal clear, directed, to the point. Ceremony are like a natural disaster, a flood, an earthquake, awesome natural power that takes its own course. Both sets were delivered with honesty, energy, passion and precision. They are bands at the height of their powers and this gig (and probably the tour too) felt like the end of something. They will definitely launch into something new next time. They cannot be tamed. There is too much to be contained, too much going on.
It was announced that this would be the last Paint It Black gig for a while because Dan is going to be a father within the next fortnight. It is inevitable that this will have an effect and I hope that he continues to share his new experiences in his writing. This would add a fascinating new dimension to his lyrics. He has the wit and intelligence to bring reality to all situations and, as a father of two, I look forward to his response to this new chapter in his life. Paint It Black communicate so well and show great unity as a band. They will surely return when the time is right, when the right things need to be said in the right way.
Ceremony, on the other hand, could explode at any moment. They seem totally unpredictable. They are essential and pure. They are pushing the hardcore formula to extremes and seem catastrophic but deliver their songs with such skill. Their energy is focused and their voice is so distinct. They are mesmerising. So many hardcore bands lack their danger, their edge, their rage.
These bands have to be seen. They are both far beyond just being bands. They give you more than music. Wake up and live.

What's life without love? What's love without hate? (Troubled Waters)

Now I try to give more than I take. But there's more at stake... (Sacred)