Testament Live At The Hi-Fi Bar
Testament was my favourite gig last year. The night had a quality bill and contained several memories that I'll carry for the rest of my life. They must have enjoyed themselves too because I recently saw them again.
This time Testament played at the Hi-Fi Bar, which pleased me, as there aren't many better venues in Melbourne. Almost immediately upon arrival Anarchspere took to the stage. They did not have much to offer. Their music was heavy enough; I just wasn't captivated by what they were doing. All the songs were way too long so I'd find myself liking sections of their songs but mostly I found it all boring.
Picture The End were next and while they were an improvement it was nothing new. Fairly typical death metal with little to make them stand out. Their last song with its Maiden influence was decent enough although by this point Testament chants were drowning them out.
As I waited I heard some Pantera, then Metallica's And Justice for All began to play. The crowd were all singing Blackened, which was amazing and will no doubt be another metal moment I remember for quite some time.
Testament proved again how underrated they are. Songs like Practice What You Preach, Into the Pit and Electric Crown summed up the band, absolute masters of thrash.
Testament live is the complete package. Front man Chuck Billy is an imposing figure on stage who keeps it all moving at a frenetic pace, guitarist Alex Skolnick is simply a legend in my eyes whose solos are out of this world and then there's the crowd. Practically the entire place head banging, moshing etc. for every song. As usual part of me was fearing for my safety while another part was lamenting the fact I couldn't get more involved.
This time around my favourite songs were The Preacher and More Than Meets the Eye. Also just like last year I was completely wrecked by the end, which is always a sign its been a top gig.
Testament though didn't surpass their effort in early 2007. There was still no Return to Serenity, the sound was not as good as last time and honestly the bill was a huge step down from last year.
Having said that I would see Testament again without hesitation. With any luck they'll make touring here an annual event, let's hope they do.
