panterabfmv reviewed on Apr 4 2008 10:22:50 AM:
Show Rating: (5)

Every Time I Die
3/4/08
W/ Blackhole, Scary Kids Scaring Kids & Drop Dead, Gorgeous.
Manchester Academy 3

Manchester, home to violence, underage drinking and teenage pregnancy. However, when Buffalo rockers Every Time I Die take the stage at tonight’s sold-out show, the negative atmosphere is transformed into a maelstrom of flashing lights, crunching guitars and thundering drums that could frighten even the toughest of Gods.
First up on the bill are local alternative rock band Blackhole. Their unique blend of hardcore vocals, explosive riffs and impressive drum patterns is sure to help them sail towards stardom in the near future. Next up are Arizona’s post-hardcore titans Scary Kids Scaring Kids who manage kick up the scene with their keyboard-based melodies, clean vocals and impressive showmanship. After playing old fan-favourite “My Darkest Hour” they introduce their new single “Faces” before wishing British fans farewell and retreating backstage. SKSK appears a tough act to follow, but Drop Dead, Gorgeous still manage to win the crowd over and even convert haters into fans in the space of a 30-minute set (mainly due to a comedic cover of legendary rock band Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing”. Finally, the stage is set for the main event.
As soon as the light goes down a loud scream erupts from the throats of over 400 ETID fans eager to watch their heroes perform. As the band take their marks, an instrumental introduction is played. Suddenly, the music stops and the lights go out. 5 seconds later, the band kick-start the cleverly titled “We’re Wolf” before immediately heading into old favourite “Romeo A Go-Go”. Front man Keith Buckley’s (former English teacher and part-time comedian) satirical manner once again comes into play as he announces “this next song will tear this place apart, I hope you brought a new a**h*le…and I don’t mean your friend” seconds before the entire band ignites into new song “Cities and Years”. After a 13-song set and plenty of witty banter, ETID bid the fans farewell and allow the fans to come to the bar and chat to them. Manchester, home to parties, shopping centres and rock ‘n’ roll.

Alex Cook
15