Live Review

Architects – Guildhall, Southampton

• 2nd May 2011

As soon as the first guitar riff is heard of “Day In Day Out,” the energy levels were set racing. It saw vocalist Sam Carter animatedly command the stage; he certainly felt the music pulsing throughout his body.

Old favourite “Follow the Water” was delivered quite early on in the set, much to the joy of those fans who have been with Architects since the beginning. The thundering guitars and screaming vocals from Carter were executed perfectly here, making the song sound huge. It was the cue for everyone to just go crazy, and mosh pits began breaking out all over.

Straight after, the tempo was drastically slowed down, giving everyone the chance to catch their breath after having moved around so vigorously, with “Heartburn.” It went down beautifully for those who were fans of the ballad from their new album. People sat on friend’s shoulders as requested by the frontman, swaying their arms as they sang along to every word.  The darkness was also greeted by the occasional lighter, flickering in time with the music. However, those in the crowd who were there to support other bands didn’t quite see the appeal.  After bringing the atmosphere to its peak with “Follow the Water,” it did seem a little unusual for “Heartburn” to be placed here, or even selected for the set list at all. Considering other acts on the bill included Parkway Drive and Bring Me the Horizon, you’d think they’d have stuck with the heavier, fast paced and energetic tracks. But fair play to Architects, they took a risk and it went down a treat for the fans of the new record; that’s all that matters.

The reaction from the crowd as soon as “Early Grave” began was electric. It started off a little weak as it has been performed a lot better in the past, but as soon as the chorus kicked in, it was evident to see why this song is so popular. The guitars fought their way back into the fore-front, and quickly it sounded like its usual brutal and aggressive self.  It became the perfect finish to an energetic and fierce set; Architects couldn’t have ended it any better.