Review: Hacktivist – Exeter Cavern, 09 Dec 15

After my last visit to the Cavern, I was a little disheartened by the turn out at Exeter shows. But fear not, Hacktivist were in town and with local support Cambion. We were in for a real treat.

This was Hacktivist’s 3rd show at the Cavern, in three years. Same month, same support and same result. A crammed Cavern.

The first of the night’s double bill came in the name of Cambion. A band that I have come to know very well. They are certainly one of Exeter’s more established metal outfits, and one that always provide an astonishing performance. Tonight was no different. Cambion had a 40-minute set, allowing them to cover a variety of tracks from both the early stages of the band, as well as brand new releases, notably playing two recently released tracks, ‘Heterodox’ and ‘Mechanics Of Extinction’. Front man Elliott Alderman-Broom was on fine form with his growls soaring amongst the packed crowed. Heads bobbing throughout the crowd and converting a crowd, many of which, had never seen Cambion before. The band’s heavier and more recent tracks certainly gaining the attention of those more tech metal inclined fans. This band is certainly full of talent as far as guitars and bass are concerned but the blonde behind the drums, Frank Dennis, was certainly keeping them in check. Every time I see Cambion, they improve. Tighter, heavier and increasingly energetic. One’s to watch.

To headline the night were one of the UK’s biggest metal bands. Hacktivist have certainly been creating a name for themselves. Opening main stage at Reading, touring with Sikth, to name but a few highlights. Despite the band’s ever increasing reach, they continue to come back to small, intimate venues like the Cavern to play what can only be described as, utter carnage. This band is something special, and when their intro music began, it was clear to see that they had a home in Exeter. Tearing through a huge set of both unreleased album tracks and unique fan favourites. Of course, their party track of choice being their cover of ‘Nigga’s In Paris’. Playing for the best part of an hour, they held no hostages. From start to finish, every beat finished with the hardest of hits, every lyric shouted at the top of lungs, and every riff as gutsy as the next. Hacktivist certainly hold an inspirational status. A super tight band that put their all into every performance. They clearly love being on stage, and have all the time in the world for their fans. If you have not seen Hacktivist before, start planning to. There wont be many more opportunities to see this band at a venue so small. Guitarist, Timmy James, has certainly been making a stand with ‘Fuck War’ detailed onto his guitar. A bold statement from a band that are proving themselves to be a force to be reckoned with.

Another great night from a line up that has now taken an annual appearance in Exeter across 3 consecutive years. Next year, same time, same place? We certainly hope so.

Review and Photography: Siôn Roe

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Interview: Hacktivist @ Exeter Cavern

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