Event Reviews

Named after the connection that all icons posses, this three piece can really give it some welly! They took over the stage with extraordinary energy and gusto, forcing their funky, raw, metal sound and brazen image upon the 30 or so crowd, sporting classic modern rock attire, weird hairdos and essential black eyeliner.

The Zico Chain came across as talented musicians with a Nirvana-style feel to their showmanship and singing. Even though they were giving it their all, the gatherers at the front of the stage were glued to the spot. The hardcore thrashers were a couple of young boys throwing their hair and lager about and chest bumping each other violently. They would turn and apologise from time to time when they invaded my personal space or stood on my toes- aww how very sweet and rock and roll!

The first couple of tunes, `Pretty Pictures’ and the tongue in cheek `Rohypnol’ were bashed out angrily, so much so that the music couldn’t actually be heard, neither could the lyrics, just an ongoing tirade of ear piercing noise, which seemed to last forever and a day. Once my `shell likes’ had become accustomed to the volume level, so did my tolerance level and I began to feel the urge for a head banging session, but alas I also felt self-conscious so left the limelight to our well-mannered experts.

The initial screeching was not the subject matter for the entirety of the gig, in between were a few gems in the form of rocky melodies and more melodic vocals in songs like `Where would you rather be?’ and the Zico’s latest offering `Anaemia’, which came as a relief, although the lyrics were a bit too self indulgent. This band have recently supported Velvet Revolver, even if it was only because Slash liked their hair, they’re obviously ticking the right boxes in the musical world.

On the whole, the gig was a roller coaster ride of highs and lows. These guys were rare, undercooked even. I left that evening feeling like I’d been chewed up and spat out and I suppose that is what a rock/metal gig should accomplish. A big metal salute to you Zico Chain, however for me it was more rump steak than fillet I’m afraid.