Fightstar, Exeter Lemon Grove: 4.5.09
In small venues such as the Lemon Grove Fightstar are second to none. With an electric atmosphere, stunning performances and a highly enthusiastic crowd, the four piece are in their element from start to finish. There has been much criticism of band in the past, most of it down to a certain member's infamous musical past, but with performances like these such opinions are sure to be banished for good.
From the very start the band are slick and professional, producing an astonishingly sound full of verve and energy. For such a small venue the Lemon Grove possesses a fearsome sound system, something the band exploit from the very start with a rousing rendition of new track “The English Way”. What is impressive is the obvious intent to satisfy fans old and new, as demonstrated by a virtual smashing of classic “Paint Your Target”, complete with cacophonous audience participation. Say what you want about Fightstar, they certainly know how to please a crowd. This theme is continued with flawless renditions of new album opener “Calling On All Stations” and demo EP track “Palahniuk's Laughter”, both to an equally riotous reception and with impressive skill. Simpson's voice is almost flawless, as is guitarist's Alex Westaway, and the guitars and bass alike reel off riff after riff with booming perfection.
The variety of songs is a masterful touch on such an intimate tour such as this. It is often a temptation to play strictly new songs on a new album tour, but the stunning performances of “Grand Unification” and “We Apologise For Nothing” keep the crowd enthralled and in good voice. New tracks on show include the epic “War Machine”, complete with pre recorded ensemble vocals, and the slightly poppy “Mercury Summer”. It is quite easy to see the latter as a weak song, with it's rather flat chorus and simple premise, yet it possess a quality that will no doubt become infectious after several listens. The finale to such a varied and fantastic gig is nothing short of inspired, with rousing epic “Floods” providing the crowd with another sing-a-long opportunity, perhaps to veil the suggestion that Simpson's voice is gradually subsiding. However this idea is smashed to pieces with a faultless and brutal rendition of “Deathcar”. Simpson's voice more than stands up to the track's demanding growls, making for a thrilling and highly impressive end to a thrilling and highly impressive evening. Despite their relatively short set Fightstar have served to answer a lot of questions tonight, most notably whether they possess enough longevity and creativity to take them to higher levels. And the answer is an unquestionable yes.
Words: Dan Grose
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