STATIC X/ WEDNESDAY 13/ DOPE – Brisbane, Australia 22nd August 2019

As we inch closer to the 5th Anniversary of the tragic loss of one of the most iconic front men in the 90s-early 2000’s metal scene, Wayne Static, we have been blessed with the reunification of the band. 

While the announcement ruffled the blackened feathers of a majority of Static X fans, it seems as if the fan base have come around and brought back to relive the Static X experience with the addition of Zer0, who isn’t a fill-in for Wayne, but more of a tribute. 

The night kicked off with Dope, who in their own right are an iconic Nu-Metal/Industrial band. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of their Debut studio album, Felons and Revolutionaries, played a relatively small set, but nonetheless a great way to get the Brisbane crowd moving and moshing, with recognisable tracks including ‘Die Motherfucker Die’ and ‘6-6-Sick’. Dope displayed their stage presence, and their iconic sound with technical precision and was an excellent opener to the show.

Entering the stage next, masks at hand, costumes in tow, Wednesday 13. A shock rock icon, of which stage presence is second nature. The Brisbane crowd either had their eyes fixed to the metal horrorshow occurring in front of them, or were entranced by the music and performing in their own right.

Poole commanded the show, and gave the Brisbane crowd a sampling of new material from the soon-to-be released upcoming album, with the performance of ‘Decompose’ and ‘Zodiac’, while also playing iconic songs such as ‘Get Your Grave On’.

Finally, it was a moment of truth for the Brisbane crowd. A moment in which would define the local opinions of the controversial Static X tribute. Static X opened with ‘Bled for Days’ and it didn’t take long at all for the crowd to settle into the groove of Nu Metal Evil Disco. I must say, it’s been a while since I’ve seen a crowd so invigorated. Everything from moshing to people quietly dancing at the back, one thing is for sure, everyone I saw was thoroughly enjoying themselves and the show. Static X played a decent set, including tracks like ‘I Am’, ‘I’m With Stupid’ and ‘Fix’.

It was wonderful how Zer0 mentioned Wayne multiple times, as this is a tribute to him, and felt as if it kept the spirits alive and high, and almost like a huge party dedicated to the legend himself. Zer0 eased the minds of the initial worries of the fans.

Overall, the ticket price of this concert was a bargain. Seeing 3 bands, who in their own rights are iconic and headliners, the Australian circuit for this tour is most definitely getting their money’s worth, an amazing show, and a great way to honour Wayne Static and his legacy. The energy, the atmosphere, the show itself… it cannot be put into words how incredible it was, and how highly I would recommend catching Static X playing live.

Rest in Power, Wayne Static. 

Reviewer: ReeRee Phillips

Photographer: Davey Rintala http://www.instagram.com/fastlanephoto