The Exchange, Bristol 8th August 2023
Tuesday evening was set alight at a sold-out Exchange when Cali hardcore collective Drain graced the modest venue, currently touring their newly-released sophomore album “LIVING PROOF” which has received high critical acclaim and is propelling them to be sure frontrunners of the scene on the international stage.
From the first note of “Feel The Pressure”, the pit opened and the packed and already suitably sweaty room was launched into pure energetic chaos for the entirety of their set, complete with an inflatable shark being batted around the crowd which, upon investigation, is a common occurrence at Drain shows.
The set sped by at a pace that is typical for hardcore as they darted between songs from the new record including the cowbell-riddled title track and tunes from their debut, also interjecting with their growingly successful cover of Descendent’s’ “Good Good Things”.
For the duration of their time performing, ever-grinning frontman Sammy Ciaramitaro’s infectious presence held an unassuming air of positivity as he joyfully interacted with every fan who clambered onto the stage and allowed mic-grabs aplenty, bridging the gap between audience and artist.
The set came to a close seemingly as quickly as it had begun, ending with the deadly chugs of “California Cursed” and leaving an electric buzz in the air as the crowd dispersed, which will have presumably doubled in size by the next time around. On a personal note, I’m chuffed to have seen Drain in this intimate venue, as there’s no doubt they will be back to the UK to tear up much larger stages in the (hopefully) near future.
@pheebs.jane 
@bristolnomad_gigphotography / @thebristolnomad
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: There are too many to choose from. It would have to be either Def Leppard, Pearl Jam playing every song from Ten, or Deftones (preferably playing their entire discography). Or even better, all three!
@thebristolnomad / @bristolnomad_gigphotography
Role: Photographer / Reviewer / Interviewer
Chief, the one that bugs the team for team for their reviews and images. Creator and founder of The Bristol Gig Guide. Can usually be found swamped in admin or getting cramp kneeling at the front of a gig.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Gig Reviews, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots, Videography work, Interviews and Touring
First attended gig: Republica, circa 1996.
First gig shot: Hands Off Gretel, at The Louisiana!
Dream gig: Huge metalhead and my ultimate dream gig would be shooting my heroes Slipknot at a huge stadium gig, or as festival headliners. And to experience shooting a headline tour outside the UK