Werthers Original Anyone?
Ontario's home grown hardcore heroes Cancer Bats appeared from nowhere with the release of their debut album 'Birthing the Giant' back in June 2006. Since then they have kept a high profile here in the UK with well received appearances at Download and on tour with The Bronx & Rise Against.
The sound isn't the best for their set on the Lock Up Stage, their brand of hardcore coming across like a wall of noise for the first couple of numbers. Despite the shortcomings aurally the visual performance is as we've come to expect with the whole band injecting real intensity and passion. The crowd has been great all day in this tent and they keep it up, giving the band a great reception throughout the set.
Cancer Bats are fast gaining a reputation for intense live performances and today's is no exception with most of the songs lifted from the album, most notably 'Butterscotch' and the immense 'French Immersion'. Singer Liam wears out another pair of trainers as he covers a good few miles back and forth across the stage during their 40 minute set. Guitarist Scott Middleton throws in plenty of little tricks that give his guitar sound a real metal edge and judging from the crowd reaction it's another job well done. The last couple of years have seen a dramatic rise in the attention that hardcore bands have been receiving from the press and Cancer Bats have played their part in that. Don't be surprised if they're back next year and have moved up the bill a couple of places.