Words – Shelby
Photos – @djsedick
Attempting to wean myself off a soul crushing fatigue spell, I figured it was no better time than to stay out late and catch RISE FROM ASHES, VERONA LIGHTS and ILL NINO. Slinking down the stairs at MAX WATT’s is always a rejuvenating feeling! Sporting my beloved VERONA LIGHTS shirt, I was certainly feeling awake and ready to go for another fun night.
Unfortunately, ADEMA had to pull out due to a medical emergency so, VERONA LIGHT’s got bumped up to primary support and we welcomed RISE TO ASHES to form the unholy triad.
Our first cab off the rank was Melbourne’s own RISE FROM ASHES, a powerhouse four-piece forging their own take on classic metalcore. Commanding the stage with powerful, brash vocals and undeniable musicianship, RISE FROM ASHES owned the space that surrounded them. Pre-heating the crowd for Ill NINO, RISE FROM ASHES injected some healthy enthusiasm to an already amped crowd. With heads banging, group chanting and heaving chests, RISE FROM ASHES had the punters bellowing out lyrics from their EP The Cycle of Fear. As far as formal introductions go; I can tell you I was pleased to meet them! Definitely keep your eyes and ears peeled.
VERONA LIGHTS are another local Melbourne Alt/Metal act with strong dynamics, heavy riffing, melodic choruses that boast atmospheric/softer sections that can engage the crowd, not just energize. Offering up a blended set filled with old classics to new gems, VERONA LIGHTS were certainly in their element at MAX WATTS. Brendan Davine’s vocals, whether soaring clean lines or harsher growls, cut through the mix with clarity and power. Tracks like Comfort and Anchors showcased the band’s skill in balancing dynamics, with softer verses giving way to explosive choruses that allowed the crowd space to breathe between heavier moments. The rhythm section was tight and cohesive. Drums hit with precision and energy, while the bass delivered a solid, resonant foundation that could be felt throughout the venue. Guitar work brought an added layer of depth, with well-placed solos and ambient textures enriching the sound beyond pure heaviness. There was a genuine connection between Verona Lights and the crowd. Cheers erupted between riffs, and spontaneous sing-alongs filled the room. Even those unfamiliar with the band seemed quickly drawn in and transformed from casual listeners to fully engaged fans by the end of the set. Oh, and how could I not mention their fun cover of Korn’s Got The Life? Without showing too much bias, I can’t wait see them climb higher and higher to headlining shows.
Nu-metal titans Ill Nino made a hotly anticipated and confident return to Australian shores. Frontman Tommy Roulette stepped up with authority, delivering the heavier vocals while honouring the band’s trademark style. The setlist struck a perfect balance between classic hits and newer material, ensuring there was something for every fan. Opening with the energetic If You Still Hate Me, the band immediately set an intense tone that carried throughout the night. Fan favourites such as I Am Loco and What Comes Around had the crowd roaring, with massive sing-alongs erupting during their anthemic choruses. Following What Comes Around, Ill Nino treated the audience to a captivating drum and bongo jam, a signature element that showcased their Latin percussion roots and added an electrifying rhythmic pulse before launching into the heavy and dynamic Cleansing.
The raw emotion of Unreal and the relentless pace of This Is War kept the energy high, while Revolution Revolucionreminded everyone why Ill Nino’s fusion of metal and Latin rhythms remains so unique. One of the standout moments came during What You Deserve, where the intricate percussion section took centre stage. The Latin drums added a vibrant layer to the heavy guitar riffs, creating an electrifying dynamic that only Ill Nino can pull off.
Adding another thrilling highlight to the night was their thunderous medley, paying homage to some of metal and rock’s most iconic songs. Seamlessly blending Blind by Korn, Walk by Pantera, We’re Not Gonna Take It by Twisted Sister, Killing in the Name by Rage Against the Machine, and Raining Blood by Slayer, Ill Nino delivered a powerful burst of energy that had the crowd erupting with excitement. This medley not only showcased the band’s versatility and respect for their influences but also reignited the audience’s passion.
Throughout the set, the rhythm section of bass and drums locked in tightly, providing a groove-driven foundation that propelled the band’s aggressive sound and kept the crowd engaged from start to finish. The band also included tracks from their newer releases, demonstrating their continued evolution without losing the essence that made them stand out in the early 2000s. This blend of old and new material allowed the band to connect with long-time followers and newer fans discovering Ill Nino’s unique sound.
While the show was charged with intensity and nostalgia, it was clear that Ill Nino is not simply resting on past glories; they’re pushing forward with renewed energy and passion.
Thanks to RISE TO ASHES, VERONA LIGHTS, ILL NINO, MAX WATTS and October Presents.
EVERYDAY METAL – SUPPORT LOCAL HEAVY METAL
