One of the most progressive and unique bands on the planet – Animals As Leaders – returns to Australia this week for another fantastic run of shows showcasing the brilliant talent and musical muscle this band has to offer. Perth was lucky first on Sunday night with support from Yomi Ship.
A packed house was enough to convince anyone that Animals As Leaders have a bit of a decent following despite their music style being quite niche and out there. With a good mix of prog fans, metal heads and just plain curious music goers filling the room early by the time Yomi Ship hit the stage, clearly tonight was going to be a big night. Yomi Ship have been hitting the prog circuit for a few years now and have attached themselves to such great acts as Plini, Karnivool and more. Tonight they were another great fit and provided a great set that seemed to really cater towards the fans who love a bit of technical prowess in their music. A few new tracks littered their set plus a killer closing number to really cement themselves as a great live band.
Animals As Leaders rocked up not long afterwards and kicked things off with “Tooth & Claw”. From the start it was pretty much a mind bending experience, super intense and right in your face. It took the crowd a while to get rowdy but by the time the band hit “Thoughts & Prayers”, things started moving in the pit.
Tonight’s set was primarily focused on their latest album “Parrhesia” with a good 50 percent of the set if not more filled with the latest tracks. “Micro Aggressions” was a highlight with both guitarists Tosin Abasi and Javier Reyes flexing some serious guitar power from the magic of their fingers and instruments. The lack of a bass guitarist was not even an issue with enough low ends in some of the riffs and funky tunes to really pull a full sound overall and of course drummer Matt Garstka at the back pretty much having his own show right there, throwing down some of the most insane drum parts but all the while laying down some tight grooves to hold it all together.
The three piece had a lot of fire power tonight and the crowd lapped it up at every moment. The tour continues into Adelaide and over east all week so do not miss this tour, you will not be disappointed.
Photos by Linda Dunjey Photography | Review by Andrew Massie
