Having been following Beartooth’s current EU tour along with the photos, the videos, the comments – it’s built up an immense amount of excitement to catch them live again. Tonight sees the band play a sold out O2 Academy Bristol and their first UK date if The Disease Tour. The queue is just as enthusiastic as it flows down the street in the freezing cold before doors. This tour has felt like a huge step up for the band with dates selling out throughout the tour and a tease of another album in the works, everyone can’t wait to get inside.
Kicking off tonight are Leeds based Higher Power whose punk vibe mixed with what feels like old school grunge is turning some heads and getting some appreciation. Although some songs feel hit and miss at points, singer Jimmy’s interaction with the crowd and the bands spirit to be playing live more than make up for it.
The Amity Affliction definitely feel like special treat on this tour. Their presence oozes competence and ready to kick some ass. Some smiles from the band as the crowd gradually get into the groove sees the pit get more and more intense. Their style suits this Beartooth crowd and their sound has been nothing but quality. During the last song Joel’s vocals literally blow you backwards, his power and control are unreal.
We’ve reached that point at O2 Academy Bristol where there isn’t a shred of space left, a venue when sold out often feels oversold but people seem undaunted but this and just want to get a good position to enjoy the band.
‘Down With The Sickness’ blasts over the speakers prompting bursts of sing alongs just before Beartooth take to the stage. Opening with ‘The Lines’ is the perfect get ready to go crazy start to this set.
Looking quite cramped on stage with two tiers, enough lights to illuminate an arena and Caleb roaming the stage, it’s just one more perk to the night that makes the O2 feel intimate. There is a lack of pyro but it’s lovingly changed to confetti.
We first caught Beartooth live back in 2014 at London’s Borderline, it was crazy then and it’s tremendous to see it’s still crazy now. Caleb’s presence hasn’t changed, he’s still passionate, dynamic and keeps the crowd hooked.
‘I Have A Problem’ makes it into the setlist which turns the already hot, cramped venue into a messy pit. A drum solo that creeps out mid-set, which if honest, goes on for more than some fans cared for. People seem tolerant with losing one song to watch an engaging beat but a solo worth two songs sees fans get unsettled and just eager to get back into the set.
Caleb takes the time to address the crowd with a more serious note on depression. It’s hard hitting and incredible strong to witness him stand up and talk about personal struggles. Throughout the night he’s been appreciative of the crowd and thankful.
They end with ‘In Between’ and if fans voices weren’t gone already they sure will be after that. Most are going home with sore necks and lost voices that’s for sure. At the start of the set Caleb said “Are you ready for the craziest show of your fucking life?”, well, the band and crowd sure gave it their all to do so.
9/10
