Concert Review: Abandon All Hope at The Outpost
Last Friday, Kent-based metal outfit Abandon All Hope headlined a show at The Outpost in promotion of their latest EP, Among the Damned. Considering the timing, fans were expecting a heavy dose of the group’s new material, and AAH delivered with a signature energy and flair that has become their trademark in the local scene.
Before AAH came a slew of awesome metal from bands including Live Gave Us Lemons, Elevations, Order 66, Here Lies Another, Befallen and Bless the Child. While all the groups were notably entertaining, AAH stole the show as they ripped through each song on their EP that they happened to be slinging away to anyone and everyone passing by their merch table.
AAH is a local favorite of mine, so I’ve been following their progress through the past several years. Last week’s performance at The Outpost truly captures how the band has grown into its own and developed a truly in-your-face presence. AAH veteran Stevie James has found a style of his own and uses plenty of interesting subtleties in his vocals that are sprinkled through heavy gutteral screams and growls. Lead guitarist James McNasty, also an AAH original, has improved immensely over time — his sick leads and entrancing solos really bring out the full potential in each song.
While Chad, Nick and Nino may not have been with AAH quite as long, they have certainly found their niche. Nick’s mesmerizing footwork validates AAH’s brutal sound, while Chad and Nino bring boundless energy to their rhythmic riffs — it’s damn near impossible to stand still while the band’s heads bang in violent harmony.
This may have been the first time I’ve seen AAH in couple months, but each time I catch them, they only get better. I may be a little bias, but AAH is taking the local metal scene by storm. If you’ve never heard of them until now, it’s about time to take notice.
Check out our video below for a brief interview with Nino, Stevie and Chad featuring some clips of the show!!
