LIVE REVIEW: Infected Rain @ Rebellion, Manchester

As festival season draws to a close, many top artists have set impressions to long-standing fans and curious newcomers, eager for more. In the vibrant world of live metal music, few events can evoke as much excitement as a rock concert. One can imagine the next encounter of certain bands that can lead the charge into the future. This time, it was to witness Moldovan troupe INFECTED RAIN in great form in the intimately brutal surroundings of Manchester’s Rebellion. The venue itself, known for its raw, unfiltered atmosphere, was the perfect setting for a band that thrives on passion and family on the short sold-out UK tour run.

When SKARLETT RIOT commanded the spotlight as the only opening act with their hard rock roots seamlessly intertwined with metal elements, creating a dynamic fusion that reflected their musical versatility. Chloe Drinkwater provided a striking proclamation to the beloved city, solidifying the deep bond that exists between the evident connection with the crowd not just through her lyrics but through her energy and passion. The musicianship displayed was another testament to their ever-growing strength. Guitarist Dan Oglesby received approving nods who mimicked his every noodling lick, meanwhile bassist Jim Chambers exuded infectious energy through the thick strings and Luke Oglesby, on drums, anchored rhythms with an intensity that further highlighted the band’s cohesive sound. Powerful tracks such as Breaking The Habit was raucous yet controlled, and Stronger which deems to be a future rock anthem set the hallmark of a band that is not merely performing but rather evolving. The return on the Mancunian stage was a welcomed homecoming to familiar faces and an electrifying introduction who witnessed the UK troupe for the first time, who clearly made significant strides in their musical journey.

Rating: 7/10

The air crackled with excitement as the stage transformed, hinting at the sonic assault that was about to unfold. INFECTED RAIN‘s arrival at the sold-out Manchester venue was met with a sea of eager faces, united by a shared palpable anticipation for the Moldovan metal maestros. This night served in Manchester was a testament to their undeniable impact of their latest work, dominated by tracks from Time. Revealing the band’s evolution on full display, it was the inclusion of classics that truly highlighted the Moldovan’s prowess. The opening rendition of The Realm Of Chaos set the tone for the evening that put on display Lena Scissorhands‘ vocals as a burgeoning metal superstar, commanding the stage with both charming ferocity and humility. The Answer Is You was a delicately barbaric offering, in which followed the evening’s personal highlight, Never To Return, that sent chills down spines of all. The current lineup exuded a natural synergy from Eugen Voluta, an unsung hero on drums, provided the rhythmic foundation for Alice Lane‘s impressive bass artistry and Vadim Ojog, who was a whirlwind of dreadlocks musical might.

Throughout the night, the band’s energy was infectious, drawing the crowd into the performance with their powerful grooves. From the singalong chorus of Orphan Soul to the head-banging frenzy of Dying Light, INFECTED RAIN captivated and created a shared experience that transcended the boundaries and brought the crowd together in a collective celebration of the power of metal. The night culminated with the powerful anthem, Sweet, Sweet Lies. This was the quintessential set closer that showcased the band’s versatility and left the audience breathless. As the final notes faded, the venue erupted in applause. The shared memory of the night etched onto the hearts of every attendee and the band’s modesty. INFECTED RAIN had once again proven their driving power, reminding everyone of what to expect on their impending return to an English stage.

Rating: 9/10

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

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