Words by Sam Wolstenholme
The standard for Australian heavy music continues to rise, with increasing numbers of bands emerging from the grassroots to offer a fresh new sound that enriches the fabric of the subculture with new layers of stylistic diversity. Melbourne melodic metalcore quintet GhostSeeker are no exception to this, with their debut full-length album ‘Divergence’ showcasing a sound that is rip-roaringly heavy yet incredibly accessible. The album speaks to a wave of heavy music fans who are hungry for something a little different in the sea of often one-note chugs and aggression. So it’s no surprise that GhostSeeker’s national tour for ‘Divergence’ has been highly successful so far, and tonight, they wrap up a series of killer shows in Brisbane’s PFR Lounge, joined by national supports Revoid and Weightless, and Torizon as local support.
Beloved local alt-rock stalwarts Torizon are back on the stage for the first time in about eight or nine months, and it’s evident from this robust performance that they have made ample use of that time honing their craft. A crowd of devoted fans who have clearly been eagerly awaiting their return instantly gathers at the foot of the stage as the self-identified “petalcore” quartet rip into their gutsy Tonight Alive-esque rock ballads. Frontwoman Mish is absolutely on fire tonight; she demonstrates markedly stronger vocal technique, and her delivery is more powerful than ever. Guitarist Luke wows us with polished shreds among the riffage and bassist Ben enhances the vocal melodic texture with smooth harmonies. The band delivers a punchy set complete with popular singles Martyr and Damaged as well as two new tracks, and their on-stage energy overall conveys a sense of renewed, refreshed confidence.
Sydney’s Weightless are up next, and they dial the vibes right up to 11 as they launch into a punishing metalcore breakdown frenzy. Their live mix is searingly loud, so RIP to anyone in the crowd who forgot their earplugs tonight. Channelling Mirrors and In Hearts Wake in their synth-driven filthy chugs, the quartet blast through ferocious bangers with unadulterated grit and rabid energy. They imbue their performance with intense physicality despite the tiny stage – twist-kicks and throwdowns abound. Highlights of the set include recent single BLOODSUCKER, and a savage cover of The Prodigy’s Smack My Bitch Up that sends us into a rage rave. Their drummer abandons the kit temporarily during the lull before the breakdown hits, barrelling into the mosh to rile everyone up even further. Weightless end their blistering set on a high note and show us in no uncertain terms that they’re a talent to watch.
Local boys Revoid have a slightly delayed start due to tech issues, but once they get settled into their set, they weave a sleek, futuristic soundscape bolstered by a colossal rhythm section of two (very downtuned) guitars, bass and drums. Their Currents meets Counterparts sound soon whips up activity in the mosh, and they deliver a compelling performance that takes us through the gamut of emotions. Frontman Dale has an undeniable mystique about him, his self-assured presence commanding the stage. Never Mind, their “pop song” as claimed by Dale, satisfies the mid-00s emo heart of us all, whereas Poison Saint slaps us in the face with metalcore madness, after another false start arising from tech issues. However, the band are ever the professionals, with Dale’s easy banter getting things back on track, and they wrap up with a particularly ruthless deathcore breakdown. Perseverance pays off – it’s a ripper set overall!
Unfortunately, GhostSeeker also fall victim to the curse of tech issues – there must be something in the air tonight! – and this results in a late start for them as well, but their captivating performance is well worth the wait. Crushing breakdowns instantly fire up the mosh and fight dancing breaks out; such is the intensity building in this small space that it feels like a bubble that may burst at any second. Clad in a black tulle dress with delicate face paint, frontwoman Celeste looks like a dark faerie and sings like an angel, her pure mezzo-soprano vocals soaring above frontman Daniel’s scorching screams. Think Flyleaf meets We Came As Romans. The powerhouse vocal duo infuses their performance with a theatrical edge as they engage in a dramatic, choreographed dance, their palpable energy feeding off each other and underscoring the complex thematics in the music.
We’re treated to a mesmerising set comprising almost all the tracks from ‘Divergence’, and the swaggering riffage driven by deafening drums fuels the now very loose mosh. Frontman Daniel seems to be encouraged by this as he leaps into the pit and starts charging at everyone close to the stage – love your energy dude, but take care not to wreck anyone at arm’s length! The frenetic atmosphere reaches its peak during the band’s closing track, the recent single and nu-core belter Wake Up (Imposter). GhostSeeker have demonstrated tonight that they are a force to be reckoned with, and with all bands dishing out masterful performances overall, this has been an electrifying night of heavy music from start to finish.
Thanks to REIGNING PHOENIX MUSIC
