An uncharacteristically sweaty Friday night was about to get even hotter, thanks to the arrival of one of Australia’s finest metalcore exports. Bringing not just their crushing breakdowns but seemingly the weather too, Make Them Suffer effortlessly turned Electric Bristol into a full-blown sauna, along with a stacked support lineup comprising of If Not For Me, Conjurer and Resolve.
Anticipation simmered as the lights dimmed and the menacing staccato string introduction of ‘Epitaph’ weaved its way into a full-blown breakdown as the band hit the stage with full force, wasting no time on introductions and diving into a set that spanned their impressive discography, including their 2024 self-titled record released last November. Next came ‘Bones’ – a ferocious, spin-kicking breakdown anthem that also highlighted vocalist Sean Harmanis’ melodic abilities amidst the chaos. This contrast was further evident in ‘Erase Me,’ where, after Jordan Mather’s relentless blast beats and Nick McLernon’s razor-sharp atmospheric riffing carved through the mix, the instrumentation was pulled back to spotlight the raw emotion in Harmanis’ voice.
The set was a carefully crafted journey through the band’s discography, seamlessly blending older fan favourites with their newer, shinier and more refined material. Each track showcased their evolving sound and maturing musicianship which had the crowd locked in from the first breakdown to the final chord. Despite the stifling heat, pits were opened, heads banged and crowd surfers steadily made their way across the sea of sweaty bodies. Notably, each band member commanded the stage and had a presence in their own right. With no one overshadowing the other, every member contributed to the band’s cohesive and commanding image.
Tracks like the unrelenting ‘Hollowed Heart’ hit like a freight train, while the penultimate ‘Doomswitch’ teased the end of the set with its brooding build and blistering climax. Encore track ‘Widower’ delivered one final gut punch; a highly charged closer that surprisingly featured Reade on a keytar. While an unexpected sight at a heavier show, it fit right in, adding a unique flair to the set’s dramatic end. Somehow, the track left a crowd who, by all rights, should have been exhausted, even more fired up as they spilled into the night to continue their evenings.
The night provided undeniable evidence that Make Them Suffer have solidified themselves as a leading name in the scene with their ability to fine-tune the balance between aggression and melody, with the dominance of Harmanis’ guttural vocals seemingly tearing through the sound barrier while Alex Reade’s polished cleans and synth work soar above the madness descending in front of them. It’s rare to see a band that not only mirrors the precision of their studio recordings live but also preserves the raw authenticity that makes live performances truly special, ultimately delivering a tour de force in metalcore.
Role: Reviewer
Outside of my day job, I’m a regular gig-goer and have always enjoyed writing articles to fuel the passion even further, whether that be through reviews for live shows or for full albums.
Available for: Gig reviews, album/single reviews and artist interviews.
First attended gig: The first show I bought a ticket to myself was 30 Seconds To Mars supported by Enter Shikari at the Brighton Centre.
First gig reviewed: The first gig I reviewed was a showcase of underground DIY rock acts dubbed ‘Deprestlemania’ at The Victoria in Dalston.
Dream gig: Alice in Chains (Layne era) or Pearl Jam in the 90s
I am a self taught Photographer and an aspiring reviewer.
I have been in and out of bands for the past 15 years and some, so thought it only makes sense to stay in the scene that has been the most important aspect of my life since I can remember, live music.
Available for:
I am available for small gigs, larger concerts, recording sessions and festivals.
First attended gig:
The first proper gig that went to that I can actually remember was Muse supported by a then lesser known Elbow and I think the main reason I remember that is because it was the first big concert that I was allowed to go to with just my friends. Obviously Muse were fantastic by the way.
First gig shot:
Im pretty sure the first gig I shot was for a friends band at a local social club with some sort of £30 Argos camera. You can only imagine the fantastic quality of the shots.
Dream gig:
My dream gig to shoot would most definitely be either Tool, not just because they are amazing but their stage and lighting is magnificent. Or I would love to shoot another one of my favourite bands which is Explosions In The Sky and that’s just because they are incredible.