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Manchester's Aatma nightclub erupted into festive celebration this past weekend as the second anniversary of Seasons Beatings kicked off a full day of metal performances. Hosted by Kings of the North promotions- a promoter specializing in hardcore and beatdown- the event showcased some of Europe's most metal bands. From Belgium's ‘Clench your fists’ to Manchester's very own ‘Closed Casket’ the event was packed with across-the-board talent. The whole event was set in a traditional underground venue. A grungy, authentic atmosphere paired with the down to earth crowd created a safe space for those who were gearing up for a night of hardcore death metal, spin kicks and mosh pit madness.
The day varied in style as bands began to take to the stage promoting their talent and some even announcing new music such as ‘No Witnesses’. The East Midlands band not only commanded the stage with their presence but also performed some of their most popular songs such as “Deluded”. The band used consistent and complex guitar riffs paired with versatile vocals to get the crowd going even starting off the mosh pits for the night.
Despite this event showcasing bands of the same genre, all presented their own unique sound that paid homage to the underground metal bands before them. Many gave respect to each other and thanked those in attendance for keeping the genre alive. One band that showcased how unique they can be was ‘357 Homicide.’ The two-man band took on all aspects of a four-member band but split between two. The drummer Jake Gamble showed off a unique and initiative drum set up. From an imbedded sample pad to rare, shaped cymbals the band performed a multi rhythmic set showcasing the diversity in hardcore bands as the two multi performed for their whole set to great applause.
Another highlight of the night was Manchester's own ‘Closed Casket’. The band performed to one of the biggest crowds in their hometown. Many bands before them showcased gratitude and great respect for them in their sets. ‘Closed Casket’ used electronic components, rap elements and social commentary. Along with traditional screamo vocals from singer Zack Booth. Paired with his rap interjections Booth brought a modern yet familiar edge to the genre proving their self-claimed title as performing “Manchester's hardest scrap music”. The band proved themselves to be a part of underground excellence and showed off their dedication to the genre despite only being formed in 2022.
Seasons Beatings housed some big names one of them being ‘Bitewound’. The band known for their presence in the aggro sub-genre came to the stage with a jam-packed performance. ‘Bitewound’ announced new music, showcased new music and performed some of their biggest hits to the crowd of fans that had gathered at the foot of the stage. Implementing things from reggae influence on bass pair ups and even guitar/ drummer riff offs, the band mirrored classic metal rhythmic patterns whilst sticking true to their love for the aggro genre. Most songs were bridged with anti-establishment and social commentary allowing the band to present as their authentic selves. Another element the band homed in on was their willingness to have the crowd participated in their set. Many came up to perform vocally with the band truly portraying the bands reach and popularity in their respective fields.
‘Seasons Beatings’ has the potential to keep on growing. The community they have created will only grow with every coming year and hopefully more bands will be called up to perform. The event went back to the roots of hardcore metal music and stayed true to its underground start up keeping it alive for time to come. The event benefits both fans and bands alike. Fans get to come to a safe place to mosh out and enjoy metal music live whilst the bands perform, widen their audience and perform their years of dedication and hard work.
Words: Kira Lashmar
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