LIVE REVIEW: Operation Mindcrime packs the Belfast Empire as Geoff Tate wows all present

WHEN a metal icon comes to town you know the place is going to be packed. And, so it was at the Belfast Empire where Geoff Tate brought his Operation Mindcrime to the expectant mass of fans.

He was very ably supported by local rockers Conjuring Fate and his daughter’s band Till Death Do Us Part.

The Belfast Empire’s hall was already heaving when the excellent metallers , Conjuring Fate, hit the stage and the really hit the ground running to a very appreciative audience. Blasting off with ‘Darkest Days’ ‘Marching Dead’ they were heavy, fun and furious

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Working the crowd up into a heavy metal headbanging mood they powered into two powerhouse songs with ‘Dr Frankenstein’ and ‘House on Haunted Hill’. They finished off their set to a stoked crowd with ‘Trust No One’. They ripped the stage up with their heavy melodic riffs all while they played with the audience who lapped it up.

So much so , Phil Horner strode through the audience in the hall and stood in front of the stage playing his heart out with a playful smirk on his face. What a performance and a superb start to the proceedings.

Till Death Do Us Part, with Geoff’s daughter, Emily Tate, on vocals took the stage next.
Their style of music would be the contrast of the night as they brought a dark alternative rock to the Empire.

This would be a light rock with a tinge of Depeche Mode yet Emily’s expressive and emotional vocals fit perfectly with the style of the songs.

They kicked of with ‘Burn’, ‘Monster’ and ‘Cannonball’ and in between Emily would interact with the crowd with some warm banter.

It really made the packed but intimate gig feel even more like you were among friends. They continued with ‘Runaway’, ‘Blue Boy’, ‘Ink’ and ‘Salt Water’, rounding it all off with ‘Romance’.

The band was tight, professional and warmly received as the dark and sombre lyrics flowed along easily with a good energy and stage presence.  They certainly have a signature sound with heavy distorted guitars, a djent like bass tone, synth layering, samplers, soundscapes, powerful drums and soft symphonic vocals.

Then came the highlight of the evening. Geoff tate with his Operation: Mindcrime project. And you could see immediately that almost everyone there were dedicated and diehard fans of Mr Tate and Queensrÿche. The roar from the hall would have shaken the roof.

Geoff looked totally at ease knowing that he was among firm fans, friends and family. This was the 30th anniversary of the album Operation: Mindcrime and that was what Geoff and his band delivered to a packed audience that knew every word off that album.

The joy was palpable and Geoff could have just stood there waving his arms and the songs would have still been sung, word for accurate word.

Kicking off with "I Remember Now", "Anarchy—X" and "Revolution Calling" the mass of air guitar and air drums along with a plethora of fist pumps made it feel like you had been transported back to the heyday of the late 80’s and the joy of the crowd and the band on stage fed a euphoric energy that pervaded the whole set.

The elation of the crowd only increased with “Operation: Mindcrime", "Speak", "Spreading the Disease" and "The Mission". Geoff and his band bantered and toyed with the crowd as many surged forward to take photos and try to catch a quick handshake as outstretched arms followed him as he moved round the stage.

Then came "Suite Sister Mary", "The Needle Lies", "Electric Requiem" and "Breaking the Silence".

Each and every song was joyously received and the band looked like they were enjoying the gig as much as the fans.

As Geoff belted out "I Don't Believe in Love" the whole room really got caught up singing the whole song along with him. Then came "Waiting for 22" and 14."My Empty Room" before the set finished to "Eyes of a Stranger".

They came back on for an encore with “Silent lucidity” that was delivered with such raw emotional power there were a few fans who could be seen to be visibly welling up. Then Geoff and his band pumped out “Empire” with once more the fans almost drowning him out with their enthusiasm before he finished the whole show with “Jet Set Woman”

This was the second date on his European tour and the first of his UK leg. And if you have the opportunity to go, then take it with both hands.

Geoff Tate delivered, without doubt, an emotionally charged, powerful and entertainingly tight rock act that will leave you exhausted and fulfilled by the end of the show.

Review by Ivor Whitten
Pictures by Darren McVeigh

ALBUM REVIEW: Conjuring Fate capture excitement on 'Valley of Shadows'

WHEN it comes to live shows few can capture the attention in the same way that Conjuring Fate do, but when committing songs so beloved by those who have seen the band to an album then it is a serious challenge. Could the CF team manage that feat on their album 'Valley of Shadows'?

Of course they can - did you ever doubt it?

Converting the energy and intensity from the live versions has been achieved what seems effortlessly, but that belies the work that has gone into produce an album brim full of superb tracks.

You could describe it as classic metal, NWOBHM inspired, or some other descriptive rubbish, but that would detract from what Conjuring Fate have captured on this release. There are immense choruses, searing melodic guitar lines, rolling rhythms, humour and seriousness all laid out to marvel in.

Sure, the influences are there for all to hear, not least in the riffing á la Maiden etc, but it is never a slavish take on that early era of the Irons and their kin. Rather it brings it bang up to date, adds elements of thrash, and the result is something that packs 11 songs of pure metallic joy.

The pacing of the album means that there is a sense of dynamism on the album. Whether it is the rampant roll of 'Dr Frankenstein' and 'Land of the Damned', or the measured fury of 'Trust No One' this is a complete picture of a band that has risen above being local contenders and now will be attracting attention from further afield.

And, also from further afield Conjuring Fate snagged a couple of guests for the release. Neil Fraser of Stagma/Rage of Angels lays down a guest solo on the re-worked 'Backwoods Witch' and Mordred's Scott Holderby provides guest vocals on 'Trust No One'.

And, it is the re-working of familiar tracks that really elevates 'Valley of Shadows'. The aforementioned 'Land of the Damned' has a tweaked mid-section. Also, the three tracks from the House On Haunted Hill ep release have been given a dusting down, a good shake up and sit proud to conclude the album.

Pic By Darren McVeigh

The performance throughout from Phil Horner and Karl Gibson on guitars is faultless. There are so many places to identify, but the work on 'Chasing Shadows' is an exemplar of what can be achieved.

In terms of energy you can picture Tommy Daly's congenial and creative stage presence on each of his vocal lines, and the passion for each lyric that he coaxes from his voice box.

'Primal Desire' has a contemporary feel in its structure and Daly tears each note from himself with obvious passion. And, there's a tasty solo there too...

There is not a bad track on this album in terms of execution and production. For an unsigned band to accomplish this speaks volumes about the talent within Conjuring Fate.

Keeping every track nailed down, Steve Legear (bass) and Bogdan Walczak (drums) are a formidable rhythm section, whether it be metronomic sensibility or flourishes they are provide the beating heart on 'Valley of Shadows' as displayed on the immense 'Apocalypse'.

From the opening track 'Our Darkest Days' outrageous intro effects to the last note this is an 11-song album that should - no must, be played loud.

We doff our caps to Tommy, Phil, Karl, Steve, and Bodgan. One senses that the quality here will propel Conjuring Fate way beyond the parochial slumber that many acts find themselves confined to. Already the 'Dr Frankenstein' (and accompanying video) was being hailed by reviewers across Europe. The album is sure to receive the same acclaim.

'Valley of Shadows' keeps giving with each play, keeps rewarding the listener...and we have pretty much had to suspend a lot of our other work with it being on repeat almost constantly.

Review by Jonathan Traynor

LIVE REVIEW: Triumphant album launch show as Conjuring Fate tear into the Valley of Shadows

THE much anticipated new Conjuring Fate album was unleashed in the Limelight2 on Saturday (10th December)...and what an event it turned out to be: celebratory, raucous, joyous and wondrous.

It was the last show of the year presented by The Distortion Project and a significant crowd of fans and local stars were there ready to be sated with their fill of Fate.

The vagaries of a public transport this close to Christmas meant there was no chance to catch A Little Bitter, who by all accounts wowed those seeing these talented rockers for the first time. With writing underway for their next release more 'Bitter shows will be forthcoming soon.

With confidence and composure Selene brought their symphonic metal with style and substance. Singer Shonagh has a tremendous range, and works the stage with stadium like grace.

What Selene have done so well on this Saturday is balance their set as they emerge as an ever stronger act. Their ability to switch tempos and still remain faithful to the symphonic roots is impressive.

John's guitar antics add a progressive flourish at times, but whether it is runs along the fret board or solid riffing he keeps the songs moving along. Equally Thomas (bass) and Cameron (drums) remain solid when needed but add delicate touches as exemplified on songs such as 'Memories'.

As Selene concluded their set there were still punters coming through the doors for Conjuring Fate - and when Tommy and co hit the stage none were disappointed.

There is an engaging quality with Conjuring Fate. The music and the way they conduct themselves on and off stage is always professional, but once they ascend the steps on to the stage they take on an almost otherworldly presence.

Panache and power combine as they weave musical patterns that beguile and leave all beaming from front to back of Limelight2.

The new album is revealed in all of its finery - and each tune, even the new ones unveiled is greeted with an almost rapturous welcome.

The strength of each song is further enhanced by the entire band enjoying themselves on stage. Each time they take to the stage Conjuring Fate elevate themselves, but on Saturday evening each and every member seems to be immensely proud of what they have achieved with 'Valley of Shadows'.

Karl and Phil joust on guitars, exchanging solos and mock rivalry as songs such as the first single from the album 'Dr Frankenstein' are played with precision.

Tommy, Steve (bass), Phil and Karl play all the metal tropes, that in lesser hands would be clichéd, but such is the enthusiasm and energy it is a celebration of every taut note, every meaty metal note is a joy to listen to and watch.

Nailing each beat Bogdan batters himself and the audience into submission as the band raise themselves to quite incredible heights. Tunes like 'Trust No One' are roared out by all and all enjoy each line, intonation and piece of stagecraft as 'Mirror, Mirror', Backwoods Witch and many more were aired.

Whether it was Phil roaming the venue, Tommy pushing the microphone into audience member's gobs to allow them to join in on choruses, or the rest of the band switching places on stage the energy was contagious.

Conjuring Fate have always been consummate performers, but on the event of this launch they took it to what - to coin a phrase - was another level.

Review by Jonathan Traynor
Photos by Darren McVeigh, MetalplanetBelfast

VIDEO: Conjuring Fate unleash Dr Frankenstein on the unwary

NORTHERN Ireland metal maestros Conjuring Fate top off last week's superb Limelight show with the release of their new video, Dr Frankenstein.

The song is the first from the band's forthcoming album 'Valley of the Shadows', slated for a December 12th release.

Given it's Halloween weekend, you can view the video below.

Shot in the same locations as the movie 'The Frankenstein Chronicles', starring Sean Bean, it was filmed by George Clarke of Yellow Fever Productions. Enjoy!

LIVE REVIEW: Conjuring the metal rage: Conjuring Fate, Donum Dei and Attica Rage bring class to Saturday evening

WITH the ever-lengthening list of shows over the closing weeks of 2016 it is becoming increasingly difficult for promoters to attract crowds for all but the biggest headliners. Coming just a day after Alien Ant Farm and a week ahead of four consecutive nights of gigs, Attica Rage's show was up against all the odds.

However, for those that managed to make it down to Limelight2 for The Distortion Project presentation on Saturday (October 22nd) they were treated to a triple set of metal excellence.

Sure, it wasn't the most 'extreme' metal, but it was pure old-school metal with an added dash of thrash.

Openers Conjuring Fate are a well-oiled, smooth and tight machine - no clunking of the gears here. Led by Tommy's charismatic performance and well-balanced vocal delivery they, like the following act Donum Dei, are prepping for a new album, but the familiar tracks drew acclaim.

'House On Haunted Hill', 'Backwoods Witch' and Mirror, Mirror' from their last release capture the mood of classic metal with a NWOBHM attitude. However, this is no retrograde set; rather it brings the sound right into 2016. 

Phil and Karl take the opportunity to roam around the venue, exchanging jokes with the audience while on the go with 'Trust No One' was amongst the many highlights of the show.

The camaraderie on stage means Conjuring Fate are a potent force of fun and metal joy.

Donum Dei are ploughing a thrash groove, with a little added frisson of death and classic rocking. From start to end they engage well with each other and the audience. Since the last time we caught them they have tightened up.

New(ish) bassist Neil on bass adds a dimension to backing vocals with Stuart that brings out the best of the arrangements and supports Thomas's ever-impressive attack from then front.

Crowd favourite ' Justice Fails' never fails to impress, just as 'Redemption' and the rest of the set are increasingly forceful from the four-piece.

Attica Rage this year notched up their third album, 'Warheads Ltd', release and performed at Bloodstock, amongst other festivals.

With a decade of gigging experience under their belts Scottish rockers Attica Rage could not be impressed with the lack of crowd, something that just wasn't of their doing. But, those there were largely wowed by the impressive set.

Jonny Parr dominates the stage, with an ease of playing and a range that is multi-dimensional in delivery.

His interchanges with Stevie Bell showcase a maturity in melodious, mighty metal. The festival appearances and this run of UK and Irish dates have produced a locked in unit, with Matthew Ward (bass) and Richie Rage (drums) anchoring the sound.

Songs from 'Warheads Ltd' featuring they also reach back across their previous albums. Despite a slight lag mid-set the band have an ability to produce a narrative across their set, that shows they can rise above any challenges and make their rockin' metal compelling to listen to.

Review by Jonny
Pictures by Darren McVeigh
Reproduction by Written Consent Only 

COMIN' ATCHA: Nothing to do? Bored? Well you won't be this week!

HOW many keyboard warriors does it take to change a lightbulb? Answer: None, they'd rather stay in the dark. By the same measurement we always hear from the key clicking bunch about there being nothing to do, no gigs etc etc etc.


How wrong they are. Take the next five days as an example...


Tonight NOLA stalwarts and stoner maestros EyeHateGod play Limelight2 with support from the mighty War Iron and Burden  of the Noose.


Come on! It's hump day so you can get a break from the drudge of the office with some righteous noise.


Thursday, however, is when the weekend unofficially starts...who works that hard on Friday anyway? So on Thursday night you can wend your way to Paradise City's 30th Birthday show in the Voodoo. Helping Paradise City blow out the candles will be Sinocence, St Hellfire and the last ever gig from Worldsend.


Last chance to see 'em folks so get along and raise a glass to them!


Friday....ahh the joy of walking out the door of the office/factory/coal mine (apologies to weekend workers...call in sick say you're suffering from metal deficiency!).


Not normally the preserve of rock venues, McHugh's Bar is hosting Pat 'The Professor' McManus. If you have ever seen Pat play you know he is an entertainer and the real deal when it comes to guitar heroes.


Speaking of heroes, 'Tallica always hailed NWOBHM act Diamond Head as their heroes. The question of whether we can ask 'Am I Evil' remains moot, but Diamond Head play Limelight2 on Saturday, with support from Rabid Bitch of the North and Conjuring Fate. Tasty!


When it comes to taste, your delicate taste buds should be wet with drooling saliva at the prospect of Mastodon playing in the Ulster Hall. Anyone who saw them last time knows just how good - no great they are live.


And, the fact that they were all 'killed' by White Walkers in Game of Thrones adds ever more to their kudos score.


Support from Bad Breeding.


And, if the prospect of Mastodon seems too much (get thee behind me!) there's always Lo Mejor at the Hudson.


Tickets for all these shows are available at the various doors.


Nothing to do? Bored? No shows in town? No gigs? These are five days when you can experience the varied delights of rock and metal in Belfast, where, as Mr Daly of CJ might say the eagles fly.


See y'all there!

LIVE REVIEW: Metal+Masses+Crowd+Bloodstock=Fearsome Friday Fun

A LONG time ago - or so it seemed - the journey began to select the Northern Ireland band to stand on the unsigned stage at Bloodstock in August. And, the days and nights of effort culminated on Friday, May 8th in a packed Voodoo for the final.

Five bands, one judge and a packed crowd created a perfect recipe for a metal feast.

While for us it was a night of celebration and to raise a glass to the quality of the music in Northern Ireland, for the night's judge, Simon Hall, it was the beginning of a long haul that will see him tour round the UK, Ireland and Scandanavia selecting the best of the best.

Of course, being a Northern Ireland based site we are pretty sure that we produce the best of the best...

But first up living up to the promise that we can deliver the musical muscle: Donum Dei, Conjuring Fate, Sinocence, Overoth and Cursed Sun.

Opening up with a ferocious thrash assault Donum Dei tore into their set with their usual enthusiasm. Despite not having an 'official' release to their names, many of the songs are familiar to a large proportion of the audience.

Titles like 'Justice Fails', and 'Gravelands' are greeted with roars as Thomas leads a merry riffing dance, Stuart sears through solos, Alastair locks his drums into the mania that is the hyperactive bassist Dean.

When it comes to crowd interaction Conjuring Fate have a trump card in Tommy Daly, whose engaging stage leads to a spontaneous sing-alongs to the likes of 'Backwoods Witch', 'House on the Haunted Hill' and 'Where Eagles Fly' amongst them.

Backed by Phil, Karl, and Steve it is as if you went to a party and a gig broke out with the interchanges, spoof solo rivalry and a feelgood NWOBHM vibe.

Bringing a contemporary metal vibe Sinocence sneered with malevolence, mashing out hymns of discontent for a dystopian world.

Moro led the majestic metal assault with 'Long Way Down' opening as always, but the newer material from 'No Gods, No Masters Vol. 2' is equally welcome. Davy has it nailed down on the drums, allowing Jim's bass to add texture allowing Anto's solos to weave tapestries that work hard to give depth to the downpour of metal raining down on to the crowd.

Wildcard qualifiers Cursed Sun come across as a band that are geared up for war when they set out to wreak havoc, with Jones the jester of jeopardy atop a hill of heroics.

Jonny layers guitar lines as his solos search out the lining of the heart, with the riff to the core they draw down destruction, with much of the focus on their two most recent releases 'Fall and Rise' and 'Premonitions'. With Chris (drums) and Monty (bass) holding the madly spinning mass from meltdown it is, as was the theme of the night, a consummate performance.

With the various flavours of metal represented so far, it was the turn of Overoth to bring their death metal destruction, with the towering shape of Andy deepening the gloom with his massive presence on bass.

This was an assault on eardrums of all in the venue, a snarling brand of metal that shook the foundations of Belfast's Fountain Street. The experience within Overoth is evident in the poise of the performance.

Daniel and Andrew's guitar are guttural expressions of extreme precision, while Jay delivers par excellence death metal drumming to Andy's bass.

Overoth are a well-oiled machine of slaughter, and with 'Kingdom of Shadows' now five year's old new material is overdue for recording. Not that any of this mattered on the strength of the performance.

As the five band aural assault ended, all thoughts turned to which one of these acts would win the coveted slot at Bloodstock.

Judging duties were the responsibility of Simon Hall - yes he of Beholder.  It was a job that we didn't envy him.

Tension was growing ahead of the announcement - as much as in the audience as the assembled band members. Truth is, from our point of view, each of the bands could have delivered at Bloodstock.

But only one could be selected - it was Overoth.

A tremendous night showcasing some of the best metal talent on these islands.

Review by Jonny

Photographs by Darren McVeigh, MetalplanetBelfast