Virus

with Infestation and Affluenza

The Rock Attic, Streatham, London

20th December 2008

Live pics by HannTu

Live review by Stu Occupier

Virus were one of the first thrash bands to come out of the UK back in the early 80s, progressing from their punk/oi roots to lead the budding thrash movement in the UK. Unfortunately, despite touring with major names like Megadeth, Voivod, Kreator and Celtic Frost, they never struck it big. Metalworks Records kept faith in them and three albums were released, PRAY FOR WAR (1987), FORCE RECON (1988) and LUNACY (1989), but internal problems as well as the band’s apparent disregard for seniority within the metal press world (Coke punching a Kerrang editor in a London club being only one example) meant that the band split up. Now Coke McFinlay (guitars and vocals) and Virus are back and kicking arse, with a brand new line-up – consisting of Matt Cooper (bass, ex-Cellbound), Dave Sherwood (drums, ex-Doreterna, ex-Tiberium) and Sam Brandon (guitars, Matron) – and an upcoming EP.

–HannTu

Affluenza

Stepping in at the last moment to help rescue a bill that was falling apart thanks to some genuine reasons from some bands and some very poor ones from others, the London band formerly known as Seasons Of Six drew a fair crowd and entertained all.

Their opening was very gothic and atmospheric, and this was followed by 30 minutes of melodic Death Metal played with true style and conviction.

First rate female bassist Nicky’s fingers flew up and down the fretboard complementing the excellent guitarwork of Marcel. Vocalist Cletus screamed his lungs out whilst constantly grinning like a manic Wayne Static.

Website: www.myspace.com/affluenzamusic

Infestation

Any band who uses the cookie monster theme as their intro are alright in my books! Words such as "Brutal" and "Crushing" are the best chosen when describing their aural assault of Death Metal.

One of the most technically proficient bands in the scene anywhere in the UK, they played to a packed venue full of appreciative headbangers eager for more. This was bassist Rob’s last show with the band and it was one of their best, so this was a suitable farewell with songs like ‘Evil Evil’ slaying everything in its path.

Website: www.myspace.com/infestationuk

Setlist

Desecrate

Evil

Cross of Arrogance

Necrospawn

Butcherknife

Virus of Faith

Natural Born Killer

Legion of Death

Infest

Carrion

Nullify

Forever I Deny

Betrayer

Bow To None

Virus

Gig number two for the reformed (no let’s change that to ‘remade’) thrash legends, still proving that they are better, faster and stronger and ready to take on the pretenders to the throne of UK thrash.

Tonight’s show began with Coke pacing up and down during the intro shouting "Let’s fucking do this!", with the whole band pumped and ready.

Notch this one up as "Job Done", audience worn out and sweating, the band playing perfectly (even though Sam’s amp committed suicide during one of the first few songs, it was quickly replaced so that the onslaught could continue) and shouts for an encore which was duly delivered.