LIVE REVIEW: Hot Milk @ O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester

Few bands have captured the restless spirit of modern British rock quite like HOT MILK, and their return to their home at Manchester’s O2 Victoria Warehouse, the Mancunians were set to deliver an evening that was equal parts in celebration and statement of intent. Marking the culmination of their second release Corporation P.O.P, HOT MILK’s transformation from up-and-coming alt-rockers to bona fide contenders was fixed on the map, proving the quartet can unite a devoted fanbase while pushing their sound into bold new territories.

SILLY GOOSE’s UK debut revealed the band’s infectious energy and commanding stage presence as frontman Jackson Foster impressed the English congregation as all members delivered confidence. The set featured lively nu-metal influences, drawing clear inspiration from several heavyweights. The band’s ability to engage the audience was clear, with Foster’s humorous and heartfelt interaction, such as sending a video to his mother mid-set, adding a personal touch to their overall guise. The shift from their typical guerrilla gigs in unconventional US venues to a traditional UK stage was of a change in an unfamiliar atmosphere. However, SILLY GOOSE maintained their authenticity and out with raw charisma, a powerful sound, and a memorable rapport with the audience. Their successful debut advocates a promising future to the UK circuit, leaving little doubt that this won’t be their last visit

Rating: 8/10

CASSYETTE’s established presence in the alt-metal scene of Manchester carried an engaging set that played to their strengths as a dynamic vocalist. The concert began with ‘September Rain‘ and included fan favourites such as Ipecac, Dead Roses, and Petrichor, along with the debut of two unreleased tracks, Oops! and Boyfriend. Her ability to switch between aggressive growls and clean, melodic vocals drew enthusiastic responses from the crowd, encouraging sing-alongs and crowd surfing. Conversely, technical issues with the venue’s sound often drowned out CASSYETTE’s commanding vocals and dampened the overall sound. The dependence on older songs, despite recent releases, suggested a lack of momentum in the setlist and all new songs were well-received, highlighting their vocal versatility and talent. Make no mistake that, although a more balanced sound mix and a refreshed setlist would help the live shows reach their potential, it did not disguise the stage presence, remaining impressive

Rating: 7/10

The anticipation was thrilling as fans gathered for HOT MILK’s final headline show of the tour – a true homecoming for the rising alt-rock sensations, one may theorise. The moment the house lights faded, and the opening chords of Hell Is On Its Way reverberated through the cavernous venue, it became clear this would be a night to remember. The crowd, a mix of diehard locals and newer fans, erupted with unified chants that amplify the sense of community HOT MILK carefully cultivated. The setlist was a bold canvas and revealed their evolution into a heavier, more dynamic sound without losing the infectious hooks and pop-rock sensibilities that first won over their audience. Tracks like the ferocious Swallow This and anthemic I JUST WANNA KNOW WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I’M DEAD landed with seismic impact, igniting mosh pits and sing-alongs in equal measure. The band’s willingness to reinvent was evident in their reimagined, nightmarish take on Candy Coated Lie$, which pulsed with a newfound menace, and in the seamless transitions between old favourites and new material, including atmospheric interludes like Machine Elves and Sediments that kept the momentum high.

What truly set the night apart was the palpable bond between the band and their hometown crowd. Lead vocalist Han Mee radiated gratitude, pausing between songs to share personal reflections and heartfelt thanks – a gesture met with roaring approval from the Manchester faithful. Concluding the night on a high, guitarist Jim Shaw’s raw, screamed vocals during the climactic Sympathy Symphony injected a visceral intensity, while the cathartic fury of PARTY ON MY DEATHBEED and the poignant tone of Chase The Dragon brought the function to a treasured close.

Beyond the music, this was a testament to HOT MILK’s roots and their meteoric rise in the British rock scene, and the group’s ability to foster a sense of belonging, both on and off stage, was evidence of their validity and dreams. It was clear to everyone present that the night marked not just the end of a tour but a triumphant milestone in HOT MILK’s journey. If their O2 Victoria Warehouse display was any indication, their upward trajectory is unstoppable, and their impact on modern British rock is only set to grow.

Rating: 9/10

Check out our photo gallery of the night’s action in Manchester from Sabrina Ramdoyal Photography here:

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