Live Review: Stray From The Path - Project House, Leeds
24th November 2025
Support: Alpha Wolf, Graphic Nature, Calva Louise
Words & Photos: Martin Hingley
After nearly twenty five years on the metalcore scene, Stray From The Path’s tenure comes to an end with a final run of UK dates. Project House in Leeds is tonight’s backdrop for a show stacked with plenty of exciting talent in support of the headliners.
Kicking things off are Calva Louise. Formed in London in 2016, they bring a mix of post‑hardcore and alternative rock, drawing on the diverse heritage of the band members to create a unique style. With only three members, they spread themselves well across the stage. Lead vocalist Jess Allanic’s versatility is evident from the start, as opener Tunnel Vision moves from tranquil beginnings to brutal screams within seconds. As the set continues, their robustness shines through, particularly on El Umbral, which draws on Jess’s Venezuelan roots with Latin American vibes. Calva Louise provide a solid start to the evening and warm the crowd up nicely.
Graphic Nature are up next with their nu‑metalcore stylings. From here on out, the venue’s energy jumps a hundredfold. The evening’s first crowd‑surfers begin to make their way over the barrier, encouraged by frontman Harvey Freeman, who struts around the stage like he owns it. Mosh pits open as guitarist Pete Woolven and Matas Michaliovskis deliver tight, rehearsed backing for Freeman’s raw growls. Still buzzing from their near‑hometown London show the night before, the band are clearly on a high. Freeman leads the crowd in crouching down before leaping up together during the penultimate track Bad Blood, a huge moment. Amid flashing lights and heavy riffs, Graphic Nature prove why they’re high up on next year’s Bloodstock line‑up, and it’s clear they’ll thrive on a bigger stage.
Drenched in shadows, Alpha Wolf arrive on stage with one mission: to get the crowd rowdy. The Aussie outfit succeed instantly, rushing around like a pack of lions hunting prey. Their crushing riffs spark chaos, with even more crowd‑surfers and the largest pits of the night, the thud of Mitch Fogarty’s drums pushing the crowd back and wide for songs including Feign, Acid Romance and Sub‑Zero. Frontman Lochie Keogh works the crowd like a wizard casting a spell, holding their attention completely. A massive wall of death erupts mid‑set, showing the fans’ devotion, while guitar work from Scottie Simpson and Sabian Lynch is razor‑sharp. Alpha Wolf know exactly how to ready the room for the headliners.
Finally, it’s time for tonight’s headline act. For the last time in Leeds, Stray From The Path deliver memories and energy that span two decades. Their final few shows have been something to behold, and tonight is no exception. With a capacity crowd of 1,000, the sold‑out venue erupts as the band hit the stage, and a steady stream of crowd‑surfers begins from the very first note. Opening with Kubrick Stare, it’s clear Stray From The Path aren’t holding back. Vocalist Andrew Dijorio commands the room, delivering fan favourites with power. Between songs, the band reminisce about their early UK shows in much smaller venues, expressing gratitude for the support they’ve built over the years.
Ploughing through a setlist that leans on newer material, Stray From The Path relish every moment of these final shows. Guitarist Thomas Williams looks slick as ever while shredding heavy riffs, with drummer Craig Reynolds providing a stylish, precise backbone.
As the show nears its end, Dijorio recalls their first Slam Dunk Festival appearance before urging as many fans as possible to crowd‑surf one last time. They close with Fortune Teller, leaving the venue in chaos and celebration. Though Stray From The Path’s time is ending, their legacy will live on through a dedicated fan base and a powerful discography. Whatever the future holds for the members post‑tour, tonight proves their impact will not be forgotten.
Photo credits: Martin Hingley
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