The Metal Column – January 2010

The Southern State of Georgia has become an unlikely metal mainstay of sorts over the last decade in a grassroots rebranding feat that draws attention away from the 80s college rock and 90s rap explosions. Mastodon (whose Barrowlands show on 19 Feb is essential viewing, by the way) continue to tirelessly fly the flag and, in the process, have rightfully scored a lucrative record deal, Grammy nomination and the highly coveted opening slot for Metallica. Other noteworthy Georgia metal bands include Harvey Milk, Kylesa, Torche, Zoroaster, Withered and Black Tusk, all of whom sound completely different but are equally accomplished and impressive. But there is one in particular that threatens to overshadow the lot of them.

Hailing from the colonial swamps of Savannah, Baroness released Blue Record, their second full length, in the autumn of 2009, and it quickly made its way onto many year-end best-of lists. Distilling the fundamental elements of prog, metal, classic rock and folk into a distinctive and emotionally-charged metallic moonshine, this band is by far the most talented and ass-kicking group that the current scene has to offer. Their upcoming gig at Nice ‘N Sleazy (21 Jan) is not to be missed, and don’t think it won’t sell out. Attention: this is your final chance to catch them in a small, intimate venue. Bet on it.

Earlier in the month, grindcore inventors Napalm Death honour us with their presence at Ivory Blacks (10 Jan), and thrash hit men Evile asphyxiate the blood-thirsty droves at Cathouse (17 Jan), bolstered by the battle-torn screams of Warbringer. Pagan occultists will gather en masse for a two-part Black Metal Ritual at Pivo Pivo in Glasgow (15 Jan) and The Ark in Edinburgh (16 Jan), featuring the diabolical frostbite of Cirith Gorgor, Valpurga, Moonrape and Assynt, among others. The ancient gods and blizzard beasts of the northern lands will no doubt be pleased.

Also in Edinburgh, Bannerman’s deploys the concentrated indignation of Promised Only Lies, Harvest The Sun and The Scholar (11 Jan), while Glasgow’s Classic Grand hosts Canadian succubi Kittie (18 Jan) alongside It Dies Today and Malefice. For a less menacing vibe, check out rock classicists Wolfmother at the O2 Academy (14 Jan).

Tantrum-core mutants Diet Pills and wrist-slashers La Guerre make a bloody mess at 13th Note (17 Jan), followed by art schizos Rolo Tomassi at Nice ‘N Sleazy (19 Jan). On the previous night, local feedback experts Holy Mountain and torture fiends Ultimate Thrush take no prisoners at Captain’s Rest (18 Jan). Extra credit will be awarded to anyone who attends all of the aforementioned gigs. Class dismissed.