Mendeed, Seethe, Dryard, Helmithian.

Esquires Bedford Lev 2 7th June 2006.

Tonight it was time to welcome back our semi-adopted Scottish metallers MENDEED who come down for a Download Festival warm-up courtesy of Paul Craven and his 'One for the Underground' nights. Although the turnout was disappointingly poor, it did not detract from the efforts and performances from all four bands.
Mendeed gave a powerful and convincing demonstration of why they are one of the tip young metal bands in the UK. As well as drawing on a selection of songs from their magnificent debut album 'This War Will Last Forever' such as 'Beneath a Burning Sky' and 'Resurrecting Hope', Mendeed also showcase various tracks from their new album, which is currently 'under construction'. The songs 'Faith and Glory' and 'Glory Be Thy Name' are delivered in a veil of frightening ferocity by a demented David Procter whose anger was apparently caused by group of folk innocently sitting down at the side rather than stepping into the mosh pit!
"Would you please stand and come to the front" he demands of the punters, although his Scottish dialect is somewhat stronger and coarser manner!
Mendeed are hopefully due to return in late September. As Mr Procter might say, "Din'ae be late".

Support tonight is strong and heavy, which perfectly sums up the wonderfully named HELMITHIAN. A tight debut performance from the local five piece metal collective, special mention must go to vocalist 'Whatley' as he gets the growling just about spot on. A cover of Hatebreed's 'This is Now' is dedicated to 'Mister from The Streets' while this is followed by the lank-haired anthem 'Sandpit'.

Retro rockers DRYARD paid due homage to AC/DC and their ilk - it is very much down that road, totally 'Riffmungous', none more so than on 'War of Destiny' and the sensational 'No Good Reason'. A set full of potential anthems.

Milton Keynes' SEETH feature a band member who really should be playing for the Chicago Bulls - man, he has go to be nearly 7ft tall! Their set is an example of flawless musicianship, as it provides a total tirade of ear shattering sounds which lift off with 'Now or Never'. 'One on One' is faultless and focused, while they really score a three-pointer with 'Shattered Existence'.