By Scott Hays
Independent hosted a perfectly curated triple-bill lineup, a microcosm brilliantly encapsulating the raw, thriving talent of the North East music scene.
The evening ignited with Claudia, delivering a set that was both raw and fiercely angry. This is a band that has visibly grown and evolved; the initial bristling potential has tightened into a formidable force. They retain the original rawness and angularity, but it is now harnessed with unmistakable direction and intent—a vital tightness that was noticeably lacking twelve months ago.
Wool took the stage next, delivering a set defined by raw sonic intensity. Their performance was a tight, unapologetic blast of noise, interspersed with welcome pockets of melancholy. Built on driving percussion and a relentless wall of fuzzy guitars, their sound efficiently warmed the growing crowd with pure sonic force.
Headliners House Proud closed the night by cementing their status as local standard-bearers. Their stage presence dripped with pressurized angst and razor-sharp, angular riffs, resulting in an utterly commanding set. Flawlessly delivered, song after urgent song had the crowd singing along. Fuelled by urgent drumming, angular guitars, and prominent, angry bass lines, the band maintained a relentless momentum throughout their set.
