Exit State - The Masque, Liverpool 2nd December 2010
For those who braved the cold and black ice to witness Exit State playing the Masque in Liverpool were not disappointed. The four Lancashire lads gave an uncompromising performance of rock. Difficult to pin down, their music blends many styles with the result in every case being a perfect mix of rhythm, vocals and of course rock.
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Supporting Marseille on their return to Liverpool, the small turnout witnessed a subliminal set which incorporated some great musicianship and raw emotional delivery. Front man Roy Bright is the perfect front man, bellowing out the vocals when needed, yet singing like a bird when the mood calls; all this and playing the guitar. The other showman in the band is bassist Phil Ireland. He can strike every pose in the book (and more) whilst playing solid phrases and helping to maintain a rigid backbone to the songs with Peat Hicks on drums. Adam Stephenson on guitar seems to be the more introvert of the band; though this not detracting from his expert playing. Full of energy and power, the set was over all too soon.
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Their catchy and sometimes funky songs easily won over the audience. They played a diverse set, mainly songs from their superb album 'Death Of A Rockstar'. Highlights for me were 'Lost Beyond Belief', which has been play-listed on Kerrang! TV, and the almost anthemic 'And She Said'.
Their cross over appeal from rock to metal to funk will surely open many doors for Exit State; great musicians and a great bunch of lads. Check them out.
To view all photos taken during this set click here. There are 3 available.