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Lake Malice didn’t just perform; they transformed the atmosphere. They took to the stage greeted by an initially sluggish Wednesday night crowd, and by the time they left that stage, the room was electrified, a feat in itself for any band. They played as though the room was full and still managed to make it feel intimate.
Despite an eight-song opening slot, Lake Malice brought the intensity of a full headlining gig, captivating the audience and making every moment feel like it was crafted specifically for them. The band’s connection to the crowd was undeniable, with many of the audience members having followed them throughout this tour.
A standout moment came with the explosive drum solo introducing their track “Mitsuko.” This solo brought the energy in the room to its highest point of the set, showcasing the raw power and skill of Emily Ainger, and setting up the heavy riffs and intense atmosphere that “Mitsuko” brings.
Highlights of the setlist included “Stop the Party” and “Black Turbine,” powerful showcases of the band’s talents and of Alice’s impressive vocal range. She moved seamlessly from guttural screams to haunting melodies, infusing each song with emotion and intensity that left the crowd wanting more. These songs exemplify Lake Malice’s ability to blend aggression and melody, creating moments that resonate long after the show.
One song that could have been added to the set was “Power Game”. However, wanting to hear it live is simply a personal wish, and the set didn’t lack anything without it, a testament to just how engaging their entire repertoire is.
Lake Malice is a band that truly connects with their fans. The genuine love between the band and their supporters was evident in every interaction, shared grin, and chant from the audience. They turned what could have been a routine show into a memorable, charged experience, leaving everyone in awe of their electrifying sound and raw talent.
For any fan of alt-metal, or any fan of great music in general, looking for a live show that resonates with passion and energy, Lake Malice have proven that they’re a band to keep on your radar.
Blackout Problems delivered a level of energy unmatched by any gig in recent years. They opened with the first three tracks from their latest album, “RIOT”, setting a tone of intensity and purpose. Opening with “DNA” was a brilliant choice, capturing the crowd’s attention and immediately giving a taste of the passion and emotion that would define the rest of the set.
Every track felt like a complete experience, but standout songs “TROUBLE,” “MURDERER,” and “GERMANY, GERMANY” made a powerful impact. That said, calling them standouts feels almost unfair, as each song brought something unique and resonated deeply with the audience. The gig itself was more than just a set of songs; it felt like a carefully curated piece of performance art. The band’s pure passion and commitment were clearly visible, turning each moment into something meaningful that will stay with their fans.
Vocalist Mario was especially magnetic, unafraid to dive into the crowd to build connection and energy. At one point, he climbed on top of a flight case in the middle of the audience, adding a thrilling, immersive layer to the show. Later, during their final few songs, he joined the crowd again, bringing a deeply personal touch that bridged the gap between band and fans.
The decision to include two acoustic tracks, “STASH” and “ONATRAIN,” mid-set added a refreshing touch and balanced the pace of the show. These quieter moments allowed for a breath of reflection, showing a different side of Blackout Problems and drawing the audience even closer.
The entire gig felt like being with family. It’s rare to experience that level of connection at a show, and Blackout Problems delivered it with ease, sincerity and passion. They left the crowd uplifted and connected, a feeling that fans would undoubtedly love to experience again.
With this tour, Lake Malice and Blackout Problems are quickly establishing themselves as a dynamic force within the alt-metal scene. Both bands bring relentless energy to the stage, each with their unique style, but when they share a lineup, the synergy is undeniable. Their performances, whether solo or together, are marked by an intensity that few can match, pushing the boundaries of heavy music and leaving audiences absolutely exhilarated.
A true highlight was their collaborative performance of “Quicker than Death,” which was nothing short of phenomenal. Both bands moved and interacted on stage as though they were one, seamlessly blending their energy and presence. The result was a powerful display of musical chemistry, showing how they amplify each other’s strengths, bouncing off each other to create a fully immersive experience for the crowd.
Not only do Lake Malice and Blackout Problems complement each other, but they elevate the live experience, making any show they both perform a must-see event. Their ability to connect deeply with their audiences and deliver electrifying, unforgettable performances sets them apart as powerful forces in today’s musical landscape.
It takes something remarkable to make a small, mid-week gig feel unforgettable, yet both Lake Malice and Blackout Problems achieved that and beyond. Their passion, connection, and undeniable chemistry brought a unique magic to the night that few bands can pull off. Both bands left a lasting impact, earning themselves a well-deserved spot as regular features on this reviewer’s playlists.
Words: Vee Richardson
Photos: Libby Percival
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