Moloch, Rot In Hell & VøTIV - Damaged Goods, Leeds (6/10/23)

Tonight's show is a proper DIY affair. Underground bands playing in a DIY punk venue.

VøTIV play fast and furious powerviolence which reminds me of Drop Dead with maybe a hint of Scalplock too. It's decent enough but seems to lack that spark of inspiration or intensity which would really elevate it.

Rot In Hell are playing as a four piece tonight, but this does not diminish their power or fury. Tonight should have been bassist Sam's final show before he moves to the States but unfortunately he is ill. This is the first time I've seen them since vocalist Nate rejoined the band but his vocals are still as rabid as ever. No wonder he is regarded by some (myself included) as one of the UK's best hardcore vocalists. Integrity worship and holy terror hardcore are the order of the day here. They are on blistering form tonight, sounding really tight. This is probably the heaviest I've ever heard them sound, which is particularly impressive considering they're a man down. There is far more audience engagement than usual, which is great to see. The final song 'Cauldron Born' has a cool Slayer riff in the breakdown, and Atko's bass work is outstanding here considering he's filling in on bass this evening instead of his usual guitar duties.

Moloch are slow, crushing sludge. The combination of Electric Wizard riffs and Iron Monkey rage make for an engaging mix. There are enough dynamics to stop this from getting boring despite the slothlike speed. The slithering, serpentine riffs are a joy, whilst the rhythm section crushes with sheer volume. The whole experience is not unlike Thou. Excellent.

Moloch ****

Rot In Hell ****

VøTIV ***