Another M2TM heat in the bag and another good turn out this week at the Jericho Tavern, the lighter evenings really making all the metalheads easily visible in the beer garden as we wait for doors. There is a buzz in the air for what is promising to be an interesting mix as we see some newcomers thrown in alongside some returning finalists.

London based trio Thrown Like Owls open the evening with an ambient start that slowly builds in both momentum and atmosphere, giving us a strong and emotive set that was both competent and confident. The mostly clean vocals were skilfully interspersed with some well received growl alongside the heavier elements that contrasted nicely with the beautifully arranged guitar solos and more melodic elements. 

Their sound was grungy, doomy and atmospheric; the huge pedal board adding a myriad of elements of distortion and ambient reverberation that blended perfectly and added depth to the overall sound. This, coupled with the energetic drumming and deep, sweeping bass tone, made for an opening act full of class. 

This is music you feel, and tends to exhibit swaying rather than moshing, though the second to last song brought out some absolutely stomping drums that quickly got everyone moving. They certainly ended loud with “Sandstorm,” a punishing number that elicited sorrowful echoes of despair. Overall, Thrown Like Owls put on a refined and passionate performance. Their songs had layers, intricacy, and excellent overall composition that made for an enjoyable and engaging set. 

Next up are our second trio of the evening as Hive Mind (who lower the average age in the room somewhat considerably) launch into a fun, memorable and energetic set. It’s clear from the outset that these guys are enjoying what they are doing; they are seamlessly tight with excellent synergy, and are perfectly coordinated on stage. 

This is hard rock/metal in a classic style. The songs are catchy, with clean vocals and some sweeping guitar solos. At one point the drummer and bassist joined the crowd, leaving their frontman solo on the stage. Things are taken down for a period; phone torches are lit and the crowd is swaying, before the rest of the band jump back on and bring the energy back in force. Some nice chuggy riffs brought out our first pit of the evening with some high energy bouncing from the crowd reflecting what was happening on stage. 

Ending with a spectacular and unexpected cover of “Walk Like An Egyptian”, it was clear the crowd were more than onside, with everyone singing along. This was a well thought out set with lots of build up, momentum and style, that really enabled Hive Mind to showcase who they are as a band.

Guildford based Metalcore heavyweights Along The Pines return to the competition after making it to last year’s final, and brought the BLEGH in vast quantities. They put on a loud, LOUD, high-energy and confident performance. This is another instance where it is clear to see the band has developed since last year’s competition. You would never have guessed that there had been a couple of line up changes over the intervening months; the band put on a faultless performance working as one to take the energy in the room to the next level.

This set was brutal and enthralling; a veritable Metalcore delight – you were feeling and hearing this whether you were ready and willing or not. There was so much movement from all the band who were clearly having a ball. The guitarist and vocalist jumped from the stage at various points throughout the set and weaved their way amongst the crowd who were only too happy to respond with another rambunctious pit. The lights went to armageddon setting at this point adding to the overall atmospheric chaos that Along The Pines are so adept at crafting with their performances.

All too soon it is decision time and Hive Mind sail through on the crowd vote whilst the judges vote goes to Along The Pines. Both bands put on stellar performances and will advance to the next round of the competition, leaving us to say a sad farewell to Thrown Like Owls. M2TM returns with Heat 7 on 18th April.

Words & images: Kate Elfström