Napalm Death
September 08, 2023
Factory Theatre
Sydney, Australia
In the year 2023, the world had experienced its fair share of upheavals and changes. Yet, for one glorious night at Sydney’s Factory Theatre, time seemed to stand still as the pioneers of grindcore, Napalm Death, took the stage to unleash a relentless barrage of sonic fury. It was an event that transcended generations and reaffirmed the enduring power of extreme music.
As the venue filled with a diverse crowd, it was evident that Napalm Death's legacy stretched far beyond their beginnings in the '80s. Fans ranging from leather-clad punks to bespectacled metalheads and curious newcomers all gathered, unified by a shared anticipation for the sonic chaos about to be unleashed.
Last time I witnessed Napalm Death incarnate live must have been in the 1990s when they were a five piece band, so I was eager to see if they were still able to deliver the sonic thunderstorm I had grown to love them for more than a quarter of a century later.
Turns out I should have not been worried as not unlike a lightning bolt from the abyss, Napalm Death exploded onto the stage. Barney Greenway, still an unstoppable force, unleashed his guttural growls with the same ferocity and gripping dedication that defined the band's earliest days.
The setlist was a testament to Napalm Death's enduring relevance. Classics like "Scum" and "Suffer the Children" sent shockwaves through the crowd, but the band also drew from their more recent material, showing they were far from resting on their laurels. Songs like "Cesspits" and "How the Years Condemn" displayed a modern edge while maintaining the unrelenting intensity that has defined Napalm Death unique melange of grindcore, crust punk, death metal and blast beats for decades.
The stage presence of the band was a sight to behold. Shane Embury's bass lines rumbled like an earthquake, Danny Herrera's drumming was a whirlwind of precision, and the guitar assault of John Cooke delivered punishing riffs and discordant harmonies. The mosh pit was a swirling vortex of chaos, yet it was evident that there was a sense of community among the fans, who looked out for each other amidst the controlled mayhem.
What made this performance truly remarkable was Napalm Death's unyielding dedication to their message. Between songs, Greenway addressed the audience with a fierce, thought-provoking intensity, speaking on issues ranging from social injustice to environmental destruction. It was a reminder that this band had always been about more than just music; they were a conduit for dissent and a rallying cry for change.
As the final notes of "You Suffer" rang out, Napalm Death left the stage, leaving a stunned and exhilarated audience in their wake. The night was a potent reminder that in a world constantly in flux, some things remain constant. Napalm Death, with their unwavering commitment to their craft and their message, continue to be a force of nature in the world of extreme music. Their performance in 2023 was not just a show; it was a declaration of sonic revolution and a testament to the enduring power of rage and resistance.
The fact that the title of the tour is a nod to the Dutch straight edge band Lärm, i.e. “Campaign for Musical Destruction”, only adds to the appeal.
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photos by T
