Dead XIII - Defiled band hit Lounge 666

April 7th 2018

London, Lounge 666, UK

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Dead XIII try to bring Devil's Night to London

Dead XIII *** are a Horror Metal band from Manchester, who take influence from bands like Rob Zombie, Motionless in White, The Deathstars and The Defiled. Tonight they hit the London, Lounge 666 in Archway supporting Misfits legend Doyle. I have seen this band on countless times, so had an idea what was in store for me tonight. They are always great to photograph, so this is an act I always like to cover.

One of the things I have a problem with, with Dead XIII new material... is that it feels it has been lifted straight off a Motionless in White record and does not sound like what they did before. Their signature sound is gone, and in return there is something that is not original... and doesn't feel like it's them. You can see this in 'Dark Days', which is the same thing that MIW did on their last couple of records.

Also on 'Bloodlines' you can hear elements of The Deathstars, I think the band must have been listening to these bands a lot... when recording their new album 'Dark Days'. Which would have been a great record, if it had come before these bands existed. It is still is a good listen, and enjoyable if you have not heard the bands I mentioned before. But for me I find it very difficult to listen to, and don't think I will be putting it back on anytime soon.

They had something special with their original material, so tracks like their signature 'XIII' go down really well. This is what I want to see the band doing more of, original Metal that is catchy and get's stuck in your head. All the musicians are really talented and have a really cool look, so they could get much bigger and headline their own shows if they put their mind to it. I just don't think they are quite there yet... for one the show is not chaotic enough, and is the same from start to finish.

They also look tired, I think the tour has had a big strain on their health. I remember when I first saw them at venues like the London, Barfly, where they were really friendly and up for it. I think maybe they have got a bit complacent and feel they just have to turn up and perform. Saying all this, their sound is amazing and sounds really great tonight. But is that because the really talented Ays Kura (Die Kur) is on the sound desk tonight.

I like Dead XIII but sometimes feel they are a little bit of style over substance, and need to have some more songs that sink in. You find it hard to remember what they actually played after their set is done and dusted. I think this band have it in them to impress me, they just have not done it yet. So I will wait with baited breathe for the day they will.