Lower Than Atlantis: Fibbers, York — Review
On Sunday 13th May, Lower Than Atlantis brought their regional tour to Fibbers for an intense and intimate performance. URY’s Will Knights was there to witness it all, and this is his take on the night.
Lower Than Atlantis proved that they are still at the forefront of the UK underground rock scene with a thunderous performance on Sunday night. The former hardcore punk quartet orchestrated a manic set which was equal parts berserk and immensely enjoyable. It is the first time the Watford-based group have been on a regional tour in four years, and it was clear that they were intent on savouring every moment, bringing a setlist as jam-packed as their tour dates, which has seen them travel to Germany, France, The Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, all since March.
In an hour and a quarter, the group played fourteen tracks with a rougher edge and much less polished sound than on their studio recordings, but this lent itself to the frantic energy of the sweltering Fibbers. The band had an immediate connection with the densely-packed crowd, organising mosh pits and crowd surfing throughout the gig, all the while encouraging people to down their drinks. They owned the stage, and commanded it with the confidence and swagger of a seasoned band at the top of their game.
Highlights of the set included the sing-a-long anthem ‘Words Don’t Come So Easily’ and the energetic encore of ‘Here We Go’, with charismatic vocalist Mike Duce crowd surfing during his final guitar solo. The early fan favourite ‘Another Sad Song’ was the pick of the bunch, however, which saw Duce play an acoustic version of the song, with no microphone or amplifier, whilst standing in the middle of an enthralled and hushed crowd. The band made full use of the small venue, which worked in their favour as they played to their strengths to produce a concentrated and frenzied atmosphere. It was difficult not to be swept up by it all.
Praise must also be made for the two supporting acts, Boston Manor and The Faim, who both put on good performances despite the restrictions of the tiny stage. The Faim, in particular, showcased an accomplished set and this young group from Australia is definitely one to watch.
It was, overall, a fantastic show, and a great gig for Fibbers that showcased the venue’s capability for hosting larger acts. This could potentially be good news for the live music scene here in York.
Article: Will Knights
Editor: Alex Sheriff
Their regional tour is over and done with now, but LTA are going to be at Slam Dunk Festival towards the end of May. Grab some tickets here.
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