Grant Powell – Iron Hearse

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Review by Marvin Rebeiro, taken from the Miskatonic Foundation Forum Whisper it quietly, but Wiltshire doom trio Iron Hearse may just about be the UK's best kept secret. Last night saw them take the stage at the back room of Brighton's Hobgoblin pub, playing a free gig to a small, but appreciative crowd of about 20-30 people. Kicking off with 'Temple of the Gods', from the bands latest (and best) demo, which lead stright into 'Chronovisor' (dedicated ro the Pope!), the Hearse proceeded to blast through most of their songs from across their 4 demo's. Particular highlights for me were 'Ruins of Doom', 'Weight of the World' and 'Winter of Discontent' , all featuring the highly melodic breakdowns that are a strong trademark feature of the band's compositions. It seems as though most artists these days need to hide their inadequacies behind an image, or various gimmicks - not so with the Hearse; They are quite content to let their music do the talking for them. Perhaps Chris (drums) is the most extrovert of the lot, happy to be placed at centre stage where his busy fills mesh tightly with Liam's gargantuan distorted bass sound. Guitarist Grant (also on Wino-like gruff vocals) proved to be a soloist of some dexterity, his bluesy leads and strong rhythm playing are guaranteed to fill any venue with their wall of sound. Early favourite 'The Monolith' led into one of their newer, faster numbers 'Apollo666' before closing the set (after a solid hour) with doom hymn 'Church of Green', before being told their time was up. A shame, but the band delivered the goods and a fine time was had by all who witnessed.

Musically, Iron Hearse are probably the closest the UK will get to an Obsessed-type sounding band. They are quite old-sounding, but also timeless at the same time. Their sound will never be in fashion and will therefore never go out of fashion either (As if we care!). If you like 'Black Night' era Iron Man, early Chuch of Misery and similar 'Obsessed-Obsessives' like Lost Breed and Voodoo Shock, then please be good to yourself and get hold of the band's demos. I believe in years to come they will be CULT items, cherished by those who know. Don't leave it too late!

All in all, I was charmed by a great gig by a fine band – it won't be the last time I will see them. If only they would play more often out of their home county...here's hoping! But if they do, catch them if you can. They don't make 'em like this anymore!