Solid Cutting Edge Metal
Bleeding Through is one of those rare bands that have a certain crossover appeal. They have hints of black metal about their music, allowing them to fit nicely supporting Cradle of Filth. Musically they're not too far from metal-core either, granting them inclusion into the club known as the 'The New Wave of American Heavy Metal. They're at home supporting hardcore acts such as Sick of it all and can also, of which tonight is a prime example, entertain a screamo audience.
The kids were out in force again as the sold out Manchester Academy 3 brimmed with teenagers sporting saggy bottomed jeans and ill fitting t-shirts, all complimented with a hairstyle that looked like they'd attempted to apply a dollop of hair gum, whilst standing in the middle of a hurricane. There were a smattering of older fans who probably, like myself, find Bleeding Through's metal brutality appealing, but tonight it was the younger generation who created the fervour and the slam dancing when the band broke from the wings into new album opener 'For love and Failing'.
The stage at the Manchester Academy 3 is small, far too small for the American six piece, which regularly turned into a seven and eight piece due to the amount of stage diving. Even without mobility, guitarists Brian Leppke and Scott Danough made the most of their space, delivering their music with passion and integrity. Marta, although stuck on stage left with her keyboards, was totally entranced, singing along to almost every word. When she wasn't singing she was head-banging, occasionally giving the audience a raven-haired windmill.
Bleeding Through have two secret weapons, the first is drummer Derek Youngsma. In a style of music which incorporates blast-beats, pace and time changes, any drummer who can deliver such an array of percussion is a talented musician in their own right, but a drummer who can make it look as effortless as Derek did, is truly a master of his art. The second is vocalist Brandan Schieppati, although he was bandaged round his left hand, (courtesy of falling off a trampoline...very heavy metal) it didn't detract from the intensity of his performance. His clean vocals were as powerful as his growling and snarling, his command of the crowd needed a little work as he chose to stride without purpose instead of talking them directly. He has the makings of a fine front man, which will come with time and experience.
With such an impassioned crowd it would have been easy for Bleeding Through to keep it fast and heavy, but it takes a brave band to buck the trend and play their slow number. 'Line in the Sand' from 'The Truth' was an excellent addition to the set and a lesson to acts such as Himsa, Everett and even support act Hondo Maclean that there's more to music than the constant and, dare I say it, tiresome RAAAHHHH!!!! An impressive show and a great crowd reaction, hopefully experience will propel Bleeding Through greater heights because they certainly have the potential.