Opening the night, English four-piece Don Broco started on a high as they performed their alternative rock-fused music with energy, including favourites ‘Hold On’ and ‘Priorities’.
The band played many songs from their new album Priorities, where the audience’s excitement and involvement could be seen and felt. With a voice that resembles classical rock, Rob Damiani kept the crowd cheering on to a background of upbeat sounds. As Don Broco performed their last song ‘Actors’, they left the crowd wanting more.
Following up the act not too long after, Californian band AWOLNATION’s first performance in Leeds brought a mellow atmosphere with a more electro-rock sound to the stage. As lead singer Aaron Bruno sang, the presence of a new blend of sound was shown: especially in catchy song ‘Sail’.
Huge in the US, AWOLNATION are still relatively unknown in the UK; they provide a different and more experimental vibe, compared to the usual and quite often monotonous sequences of guitar and drumming. With a good atmosphere, good follow-ups and a full house, the hype for the main act made the O2 Academy the place to be for any rock fan.
As the main act entered the stage, the crowd were in a state of ovation for the Canadian rock band returning to Leeds from the summer. Lead vocalist Ben Kowalewicz provided a playful atmosphere as he interacted with the crowd. Already hyped up, the crowd went wild as Billy Talent performed the first song of the night, ‘Viking Death March’ with beautiful guitar playing.
Notably a lengthy performance, songs performed included the emotionally fused ‘Saint Veronica’ to more recognised hits ‘Fallen Leaves’ ‘Devil on My Shoulder’, as well as songs from their latest album Dead Silence. Finishing at exactly ten ‘o’clock, the band left the crowd with an energetic performance, characterising the best of modern rock: something that will definitely have fans returning.