Vans Boys Of Summer Tour: Silverstein/ The Amity Affliction/ Set Your Goals/ Deez Nuts/ Capeside
The Governor Hindmarsh
Sun 13 Jan



Opening act Capeside were sadly met with quite a small crowd, which was unfortunate for the people who missed out because this electro/ pop-rock six-piece is nothing but good fun. The band creates an entertaining party vibe during their live show that is quite appealing and very likeable. Even for those who don't particularly like the idea of it, watching Luke Cripps (bassist) stumble around the stage with his persistent energy and goofy smile should be enough to keep anyone amused.

The party vibe was strongly continued by JJ Peters' (former drummer of I Killed The Prom Queen) project Deez Nuts. The new formula combines traditional hardcore music with offensive celebratory lyrics, and it certainly is a breath of fresh air into a genre that is overridden with 'straight edge' lifestyle promotion. The performance, put simply, was short, fast and sweet. Even with the shift from drummer to front man, Peter has embraced this move whole-heartedly and is very proficient with his new role, Deez Nuts is certainly a band to witness live. It was also fantastic to see Sean Kennedy (former bassist of IKTPQ) back on stage as his presence on the live scene has been missed.

California six-piece Set Your Goals then took to the stage with their pop-punk / hardcore brand of music, and they easily captured the whole venue's attention. The set looked almost choreographed, as the professionalism this band showcases with their live performance is breathtaking. At times, the music does become a little repetitive causing the countless songs performed to become a slight blur, but the dynamic this band has is so addictive, boredom was literally an impossibility.

The Amity Affliction filled the main support slot tonight and they still manage to increasingly impress me with every performance. No doubt this is partially due to their constant touring; within the last year alone they have traveled this nation of ours eight times. Included in the set were four tracks from their 'High Hopes' EP as well as a brand new song Jesse Intense. All of these were executed with high energy and a strong electricity between the members - the venue could have been powered by the band alone. Their forthcoming album could be the release of 2008.

Finally Canadian-based screamo quintet Silverstein took to the stage. Sadly, the sound system tonight was suffering difficulties tonight. However this didn't stop the band from executing an extremely specialised and entertaining live show. Including songs from all three of their albums, as well as a Lifetime cover - which was certainly a highlight - the band proved why they are in such high demand all around the world. With a genuine appreciation of Australia and their fans, the five-piece gave it their all, and with an encore of My Heart Bleeds No More, the night was truly capped off. I am particularly looking forward to next year's Vans Boys Of Summer Tour.

Will Oakeshott

Silverstein Pic: Fiona Stafford