Gig going can often be full of missed opportunities. The list of bands that I've followed for a long time but have not seen live is longer than I'd like. Various factors contribute to this, lack of funds, clashes with work or other commitments. Whatever the reason there's always a sickening feeling at missing out. So despite having many opportunities to see 65daysofstatic live, this was to be the first time everything fell into place. That sickening feeling still came up though, sickened that I hadn't done so much sooner.
Things got underway with the excellent Thought Forms in support, however. Signed to Invada Records and having supported Portishead amongst others I already expected them to be no slouches live although I was still unprepared for just how good and loud they actually were. For a three piece the intensity of volume was something else, approaching Mogwai levels of deafening roar. They aren't all about volume though. They shift between early sub-pop indie grunge sounds and a heavier almost ethereal doom sound.
The barefoot Deej Dhariwal reminded me of Effrim Menuck, who I'd seen recently with Thee Silver Mt Zion. He hammered at his guitar and almost seemed to be conjuring notes and wails of feedback from it. Charlie was also impressive, her vocals contributing to the atmospheric vibes. They have a split release due for record store day with Esben & the Witch and hopefully it'll not be too long before they're back.
65daysofstatic took to the stage with the familiar "No one knows what is happening" intro of 'Heat Death Infinity Splitter'. Pretty soon we all knew exactly what was happening though, witnessing one of the best live bands on the planet. I'd heard many times that 65dos were special live but it still didn't prepare me for the assault on my senses.
Lights flashed, synths resonated and beats pounded loud enough to derail the nearby trains. 65dos have found a way on record to perfectly blend the electronic and rock elements, it's equally impressive how this is taken further live. Their latest album is probably their sound perfected but also one of the best examples of how to push boundaries in creating instrumental music.
Live the tracks are performed with vigour and stunning effect. Every stab of synth or tweaked beat is amped up, guitars set to stun, bass and drums like a rhythmic beast. All combined it encapsulates the reasons we love their music and unleashes it in a sustained attack. Of course there are subtle moments, performed meticulously and creating many jaws to drop and eyes close in awe. The subtle build ups of 'The Undertow' or the dizzying highs of 'Unmake the Wild Light' would probably be highlights for any other band, but 65dos had plenty more in their locker.
What makes 65daysofstatic such a great live band is the enthusiasm and energy on stage. Paul and Joe crash and collide as much as the beats and guitars, with a genuine look of enjoying every minute. I haven't seen another band perform so well while either churning the riffs out or all hunched over synths/samplers.
Sometimes bands incorporate effects or synths and it feels almost token-ish. Or said effects are lost in the mix, not 65dos though. The performance in equal parts makes you want to rave like a lunatic and headbang like a maniac. It's testament to them that all the elements of their sound are performed seemingly with ease.
This year of course sees the 10th anniversary of The Fall of Math. London had seen a full performance of it a few days previous to tonight. As great as that would have been Wild Light is still the main focus for touring however. So I was more than happy to witness a bulk of the latest album live. Hearing and watching those tracks preformed brought a huge smile to my face after multiple listens to the album. Of course there was a frantic performance of ‘Retreat! Retreat!’ The vast majority of fans joining in with the sampled cry of "this band is unstoppable" before losing their shit. 'Radio Protector' as well pleasing the long term fans and another highlight of a night crammed with them.
65daysofstatic are one of those bands I'd recommend to anyone to see live. If you appreciate live performance, few do it better.
Thanks to Simon Glacken at Ilikepress for arranging. Pictures provided by Dani.
