Live Review: Vended - Rebellion, Manchester
21st June 2023
Support: Lake Malice, Graphic Nature
Words & Photos: Rich Price Photography
Off I head to rebellion in Manchester, who after recently securing some pipeline investment funding through the Music Venue Trust are now sporting a brand-new sound system, and I’m eager to see how much it improves the Venue. As I enter the very full venue for the first time in a month it’s notable that there’s been a lot of changes elsewhere too. Great to see!
Opening the night are Graphic Nature, who have supported Vended on previous tours, with an electrifying performance. The band effortlessly mix hardcore elements with an electronic sound, almost reminding me a few times of heavier more modern take on nu-metal. The guitars were full and thick with some nice low-end chug and the drums were an absolute powerhouse, Jack Bowdery swinging his arms wildly and hitting with a crisp snap of the snare reverberating all the way to the back of the venue, which was amazing to hear on this new PA.
Graphic Nature managed to leave a lasting impression. The last two songs showcased their range with a drum and bass sound, solidifying their position as a band that can deliver a hardcore, yet diversified, performance.
Second band Lake Malice took the stage. This animated three-piece band put on a great show. Singer Alice Guala was energetic on stage with a great range to the vocals and delivery, entertained the crowd with both clean and harsh dry vocals. Their setlist was energetic, working the crowd up into a frenzy. The drummer matched the singer's animation, his arms swinging wildly in a surprising shift from the previous extreme metal.
Guitarist Blake Cornwall, throwing shapes, added to the dynamic performance. They made good use of small platforms, allowing the audience to see them amidst the dense crowd. They managed to pull off a pleasingly diverse sound, having recently played at Download, this was an act to watch. Their big bouncy energy had the crowd clapping along, visibly enjoying their performance.
However, nothing could prepare the crowd for the final act of the night - Vended. Their performance was nothing short of intense. From the bass drops maximised through the new PA that reverberated through the room to each band member's undeniable stage presence, they were a force to be reckoned with.
The elephant in the room, albeit one frequently spoken of is there no avoiding they bore a familiar Slipknot sound, perhaps a bit inevitable given that the lead singer, I suspect that most of this is down to the effortless matching of vocal styles, whilst man have attempted to imitate Corey Taylor, the DNA passed down to Griffin along with accent, mannerisms etc. make it borderline impossible not to make comparisons.
It’s an unfair comparison, yet sadly one which takes mental effort to overcome, it’s not like he could try to put on a fake Brummie accent between songs. Vended proved themselves to be their own beast, and to my personal preference slightly better than the more senior bands recent output, managing to feel as fresh and alive as the first time is had to pick my Jaw off the ground after hearing the first album, way back when.
The venue, packed and dripping from the ceiling, vibrated with the double bass drumming, each hit shaking the venue. The level of the crowd's engagement was both alive and dangerous, a testament to the band's immense stage presence. Vended delivered a massively confident performance, especially of note was Griffin spending extra time after the show to connect with fans, before leaving the stage, several minutes of high fives, handshakes, and the prolonged shout of "Vended" at the end, all pointed to one thing - they were truly grateful for their fans.
This was one of the most engaging gigs in recent weeks. All three bands brought their unique sounds and styles to the stage, creating a thrilling night of extreme music that won't be easily forgotten. The recent innovations at rebellion are also setting it up to reclaim its exalted reputation on the Manchester music scene, all in all a great night out.
All photo credits: Rich Price Photography
