Melbourne alt-metal favourites Windwaker brought their Love in the Dark Tour to The Brightside in Brisbane last Thursday night, supported by Caskets, alt. and Headwreck. The sold-out fourth show on their six-date run proved them as one of the nation’s most exciting frontrunners in the next generation of heavy music.
Opening the night soon after doors was local metalcore quartet Headwreck, who had already pulled a decent crowd of newcomers. Searing screams and soft cleans over dirty chugs and alien sounds got the venue warmed up for what was to come. A moody set featuring favourites “Let It Feel” and “The End of the Suite” captivated with big breakdowns and glitchy electronics.
Up next was Adelaide rising stars alt. to keep things moving. Having earned a name for themselves with extensive touring and the release of their debut album ABEYANCE last month, the alt-rock quintet went so hard that they broke the stage ‘for the second time on this tour’. “A.D.D.” called for a wall of death and the pit opened for heavy track “WRAITH”, demonstrating an impressive vocal range and punchy riffs.
Leeds post-hardcore outfit Caskets emerged to a cheering crowd for their live debut in Brisbane, grateful to be doing what they love on the other side of the world. Controlled cleans over upbeat grooves and synth tracks had everyone singing along to their catchy hooks. Fresh after dropping the Believe EP just a fortnight ago, their immersive set included “More Than Misery”, “Guiding Light” and emotive banger “The Only Ones” before closing with classic hit “Glass Heart”.
Windwaker took to the stage with an extended intro to energetic rap-rock track “Superstitious Fantasy” then launched into their energetic set of fan-favourites and Love Language deep cuts. From the filthy breakdowns of “Trenches” and double-time flows of “Dopamine Freestyle” to the synth hooks of “Left in the Dark” and tasty guitar solo of “The Rain”, Windy left no stone unturned in giving the people what they wanted.
Longtime member and newly-appointed frontman Liam Guinane of Reside was unfortunately very sick, but delivered nonetheless. His soaring cleans and blistering screams matched the band’s fervour and particularly impressed for old gem “My Empire”. Sipping tea between songs, he repeatedly professed his gratitude for the fans and enlisted their help for anticipated closer “Beautiful”.
Despite health issues and an intimidating performance to make their own, the new Windwaker lineup crushed their Brisbane show at The Brightside. Supported by some of the best emerging heavy bands the country has to offer and fresh favourites Caskets all the way from the UK, the Love in the Dark Tour is definitely not to be missed.
