Walking through the main entrance to The Factory on Friday night, you could be forgiven for thing you’d stepped onto battlefield before the carnage. With a packed house only a few minutes after doors opened - an impressive feat for Kirikiriroa - and the
mist from the fog machine descended across the stage. It was clear that whatever was coming (be it Roman army or local legends) we were in for an electric night.
Sure enough, Skinny Hobos were welcomed on to the stage with a ruckus of applause and we were off. Within five minutes, Alex had competition for vocals as the crowd ramped up the
energy. As is it seems, a requirement at The Factory is climbing on speakers to shred a solo. Friday night was no exception and many a speaker fell victim to a climb. Most of all, Skinny Hobos just seemed like they were having a great time and that happy energy was a great set up for the night to come.
Next up was Tadpole feat Emma Dilemma, who I was very excited to see. Naturally, they did not disappoint. The word on the street was that Emma was sick (the street being a sobriety challenged lady next to me in the crowd - later confirmed by Emma herself), but if it hadn’t been announced I wouldn’t have known! The whole band was a tight knit unit and Emma delivered while guitarist Chris Yong certainly has a leading voice in his own right! Tadpole had the crowd in the palm of their hand. Saving the best for last, Alright finished their set and I did briefly forget that I was supposed to be reviewing the show as I lost myself in the crowd dancing away. Also a really nice touch from Shannon the Bassist to acknowledge the crew for putting on such an amazing event!
Something amazing happened next, the whole crowd of beautiful bogans (proud to count myself among them) joined together in a stellar sing along of Running With The Devil to welcome the main act of the evening. Within moments, a fog canon/fire extinguisher ripped out from the main stage. Devilskin were here. Guitar, drum, and bass solos were flying! That midway drum solo from Nic felt very reminiscent of Moby Dick by Led Zeppelin and was bloody awesome. Nail is now known to me as “Hamilton’s Joe Satriani” - What a solo! Paul’s introduction to Never See The Light was a touching moment and a fitting reminder in these times, look out for each other. Finally of course, Jennie. A serious powerhouse. My partner came to the show with me and was constantly cycling through the phrases “I’ve been sleeping on Devilskin” and “I want to be her!” A testament to Jennie’s skill. All in all, Skinny Hobos, Tadpole ft. Emma Dilemma, and Devilskin put on one hell of a show and created an amazing night.
Photo Credit: Kenny Peng / KP Concert Photography
Devilskin Photo Gallery
Tadpole Photo Gallery
Skinny Hobos Photo Gallery
Devilskin formed in June 2010 in Hamilton New Zealand and features the spectacular Jennie Skulander on lead vocals. Her powerful and compelling voice and alluring stage presence sets her apart from any vocalist New Zealand has put up so far. With an unerring gift for melody, Jennie's incredible voice sweeps from whisper to roar, rips with power, drips with melody and captivates with sincerity.
Jennie previously fronted Rotorua band Slipping Tongue garnering a swathe of fans with their videos, EPs and album. Slipping Tongue also impressed many when they opened for Coheed & Cambria in 2008.
On lead guitar is Nail from the popular Waikato band Chuganaut who won the NZ Battle of the Bands and the World Battle Of The Bands in 2004. Played BDO in 2005 and opened for Iron Maiden at Mt Smart stadium in 2009. Chuganaut has played numerous national tours and released several singles, EP’s, videos and an album. Nail's searing guitar work and high energy performance bring real intensity to the live show. Nail also performs with Beckoned.