On a chilly night in Montreal, extreme music enthusiasts gathered at Foufounes Electrique, a venue known for its vibrant underground music scene. The headlining act, Full of Hell, promised to deliver a night of intense energy and raw emotion. However, tonight’s event was not just about Full of Hell; it also featured FOUR other incredible bands: END, Wake, Apes, and Inter Arma. A phenomenal lineup and one worth arriving early for.
Apes
Apes, a hardcore band from Quebec City, was the first standout act of the night. Their unapologetic intensity and abrasive sound resonated with the audience, who embraced the band’s raw and aggressive performance. As soon as they took the stage, the room appeared to fill up, and Apes’ erratic stage antics sparked the first mosh pits of the evening. Apes brought a relentless energy to kick off proceedings, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
Wake
Hailing from Calgary, this was my third time seeing Wake in recent years, and they gave another mind-blowing performance that left the crowd in awe. Their unique blend of grindcore and death metal created a sonic assault that shook the venue to its core. The band’s relentless energy and tight musicianship were on full display as they tore through their setlist. The crowd responded with equal enthusiasm, with circle pits engulfing the entire floor. Wake’s performance was a testament to their status as one of Canada’s most promising extreme metal bands.
Inter Arma
Inter Arma, a band known for their unique blend of doom metal and post-rock elements, brought a different sonic experience to the stage. Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Inter Arma (Latin for “in times of war”) provided a mesmerizing performance that showcased their musical versatility and ability to create a captivating atmosphere. Their unparalleled sense of scope provided a moment of respite amidst the chaos, allowing the crowd to immerse themselves in a different sonic journey.
END
One of the highlights of the night, and the one I was most eager to witness, was the return of END, a hardcore band that has been making waves in the metal scene. With their relentless energy and brutal sound, they captivated the audience from the moment they stepped on stage. Guitarist Will Putney (also a legendary producer and member of Fit For An Autopsy) showcased his exceptional talent, shredding through complex riffs with precision and intensity. The crowd erupted into a frenzy, moshing and screaming along to every word. END’s set was a perfect blend of aggression and melody, leaving everyone craving for more.
Full of Hell
Finally, Full of Hell took the stage, unleashing a torrent of intense energy and raw emotion. The band’s chaotic and abrasive sound filled the venue, captivating the audience from the first note. With their blistering guitar riffs, thundering drums, and guttural vocals, Full of Hell created a sonic onslaught that pushed the boundaries of extreme music. The crowd responded with an outpouring of energy, moshing and headbanging in unison.
Full of Hell’s intense performance was a relentless assault on the senses. The band’s stage presence and commitment to delivering a powerful show were palpable throughout their set. Their performance left a lasting impression on the audience, solidifying their reputation as one of the most electrifying live acts in the underground music scene.
This was a night to remember. From the blistering intensity of END to the sonic assault of Wake, the local-ish talent of Apes and the mesmerizing performance of Inter Arma, each band brought their own unique energy to the stage. It is nights like these that remind us of the power of live music and the unifying force it holds and a testament to the thriving underground music scene in Montreal. Fans left the venue, their ears ringing and their hearts full, eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to immerse themselves in such a chaotic and unforgettable experience.
Review & photos – Steve Gerrard
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