Flatline, Die-For, The 30 Second Dead,Twice A Riot at The White Room, Hull 28th March 2004 By Dick Spring

Unfortunately The Defected were on stupidly early and I missed them but I did arrive in time to catch Twice a Riot, featuring Harry's great new hair! I have to say that this band do this screamo metal/ hardcore crossover pretty well and is certainly a giant leap forward from singer (screamer) Harry and bassist Arthur's previous musical outings.

The downside though, is that this sort of stuff is getting quite tiresomely formulaic, and most of it can be found inside a baby's nappy.

Next up The 30 Second Dead. With intense gothic hardcore, these guys are developing into a credible and formidable act with each gig, with much of the focus on bass player, Dieter's athletic leaps, as there was precious little between-song-banter, though I guess each band has their own defining characteristic and enigmatic is the way singer Johnny Havoc seems to like it.

I have to say that tonight was a fantastic showcase of all that is good and happening on the Hull Punk scene, especially in light of the recent speculation of the demise of the daddy's of Hull Punk, Freaks Union.

More than capably demonstrated by the third band up, Die For, who in only a short space of time have become established and on tonight's showing, are also gaining respect and plaudits, for, tonight was as close to a UK version of Minor Threat that I have seen, and that is some seriously big boots to fill, though with frontman Dom being such an affable and passionate character, you cannot fail to like this band.

I thought this was probably their best set yet, despite the shortcomings of the venue (they need to get a sound engineer, as there was no warmth to any of tonight's vocals that were cutting right through my ears, and it was painful).

Finally, we arrive at Flatline, who are without doubt becoming the natural successors to Freaks Union (praise indeed, I feel). They have the songs, a natural frontman in Mark who is the sum of his influences; borrowing from, though not copying his idols.

I have watched this band develop at enormous pace. Since forming some 9 months or so ago, they have amassed some serious gigging experience (playing with the like of Defenestration and The Supatones and impressing audiences) which is evident in their energetic yet tight stage presence, with Mike and Ben (guitar and bass ) really giving it their all and Garry keeping it solid on the other guitar. I can't praise this band highly enough. On this evidence, the Hull punk scene is in the ascendant and has some diversity - there have never been so many bands and what's more they are all as good as their peers.

Photographs courtsey and Copyright © Mo thisisull.com

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