Live Review: Gignition: Mirror Mirror, Breed, In Orbit, Robo Ant, Masonic Noize

Sunday marked the return of Gignition, debuting at its new home at the much under-appreciated Railway Hotel. This along with a time change (2-6pm) gave the event a much more relaxed, Sunday-session type of atmosphere, which was a welcome change from the at-times claustrophobic nature of the Swan Basement.

First to hit the stage were hard rocking four-piece Masonic Noize. These guys had their classic rock riffs and catchy choruses down on self-penned tracks Reaper and Chosen. Being their first gig, these guys are only going to get better. Amidst a pile of effects pedals, laptops and synthesisers, Robo Ant launched into a hard-hitting set of vintage prog-rock akin to early Genesis, Yes and King Crimson. Highlights included The Opening and Kingdom Of Cats, showing off the trio's ability to write a good melody along with some interesting sonic experimentation.

Led by guitarist/vocalist Cissi Tsang, rock trio In Orbit brought to the stage a unique mix of stop-start rhythms and unconventional rock riffing, albeit with a few slight timing problems. It was great to see a female break up the afternoon, particularly while shredding like an absolute guitar demon!

Five-piece alternative metal collective Breed laid down a tight, pitch-perfect set of alternative metal tunes. Energetic (and slightly manic) lead singer Alex Coombes did everything to get the crowd going, including jumping off of the stage and getting up close and personal with some of the (quite possibly terrified) audience members. As the sun began to set, Mirror Mirror finished the evening off on a high note. Playing an explosive mix of metal and post-hardcore, they put on a tight performance with a dueling girl/guy vocals. The set highlight was Professor Quirrel; a great mixture of heavy guitars and solid drumming that no doubt pleased metal heads and Harry Potter fans alike.

All up it couldn't have been a better first Gignition show at the new venue, and I encourage everyone to come down next month to enjoy some more local live music and maybe even a pint or two in the beer garden.