Live Review: Violent Soho, DZ Deathrays, Dune Rats

Dune Rats make it abundantly clear that their support slot is no light appetiser; their songs inspire a moshpit in full force. The band play so loud that it feels like sound waves slap us square in the face. DZ Deathrays have a more balanced mix, making it easier for the audience to appreciate their music. That's if you're actually listening, and not trying to constantly crowdsurf (the sole intention of about ten individuals who are all failing miserably).

Playing in front of a backdrop of their album Waco, Violent Soho open up with the record's first track How To Taste. It temporarily rains alcohol as every drink bought in the last five minutes is thrown up in the air. We jerk around in a giant rip, the crowd eventually turning into a washing machine of sweaty, beer-soaked bodies. There are hands, there are feet — there's even a pair of crutches swinging around. The pit is at its roughest during In The Aisle. No one dares pull out an iPhone. 

Bassist Luke Henery has a mane of long hair hanging over his face like The Grudge. It's a wonder he can still play when he whips his head in circles for a few minutes at a time. Drummer Michael Richards follows suit, his mop of curls swinging dangerously close to his kit; if he headbangs an inch further he could probably hit the snare with his forehead and focus his drumsticks on the insane amount of cymbal crashes that are required. Frontman Luke Boerdam is the most collected out of the whole group, but still emits a strong presence when yelling with his Aussie twang. We notice his voice starting to crack as they roll through more songs.

Slow flashing lights hypnotise the crowd into a more chilled-out vibe for Fur Eyes and Saramona Said. The energy soon reignites, however, as lights return to their strobe default. Towards the end of the set, it's nice to see the band's gracious side as they acknowledge our unmatched enthusiasm. "Melbourne, you go off! You guys supported us well before our hometown ever did, so thank you!" guitarist James Tidswell gushes. Violent Soho end with songs Like Soda and Dope Calypso before swiftly exiting the stage.