The return of Connecticut’s Hatebreed to Orangevale’s Boardwalk was greatly anticipated by the throngs of hardcore metal kids in attendance. Wednesday’s show, a five-band tour de force featuring Poison the Well, Bane, What Feeds the Fire and Sworn Vengeance, showcased some of the greatest talents in hardcore. Recently signed to Universal Records, Hatebreed—whose last full-length offering on Victory Records landed the band several coveted tours, including Ozzfest, Sepultura and even the mighty Slayer—finally made good on its promise to return to the Sacramento Valley.
Poison the Well was the obvious draw of the night. The Florida-based five piece, touring in support of its latest Trustkill Records release, elicited an overwhelming response from the crowd, which numbered over 300. Fusing melodic vocals with bludgeoning guitar lines and incessant, plodding drum attacks, PTW’s delivery heralded the official arrival of a major force on the hardcore scene.
After only four years and two full-length releases, PTW has seen its audience grow exponentially. Singer Jeffery Moreira led the band through a fast-paced set of new and vintage material. Guitarists Ryan Primack and Derek Miller worked alarmingly well together, as evidenced on tracks from the new album, Tear From the Red. And drummer Chris Hornbrook, whose subtle drum nuances, coupled with Mike Gordilla’s rock-solid bass playing, made for an outstanding rhythm section.
Hatebreed was on tour to support the aptly titled album Perseverance, which hits stores on March 26. After touring solidly for almost four years, Connecticut’s most consistent hardcore act was back to prove who is boss. Although some of Poison the Well’s fans had left, the 200 or so left standing were treated to some of Hatebreed’s finest moments. Even material from its Under The Knife EP and some obscure, early tracks found their way onto the setlist.
Jamey Jasta’s abundant energy led the band through a quick set of original material. Guitarist Lou Richards and bassist Chris Beattie displayed more energy during the brief set than most bands do in their lifetime. After two full-length releases, a slew of vinyl releases and appearances on numerous compilations, the band was rife with anticipation to play music from its new album, which also caused some serious circle pits.
Hatebreed’s latest album, featuring such standout tracks as “Spill the Blood,” should make more than a few critics’ top 10 lists and top the CMJ Hard Rock charts for another couple of weeks. If you’re looking for the soundtrack to your next act of vengeance, you’re gonna have to own this one. Let the blood spill.