If AC/DC, Iron Maiden and Metallica were caught up in a test tube reaction, it’s likely the new creation to emerge from the biochemical slime would resemble Airbourne. Derivative to the core, the rock-till-you-drop Australian four-piece have touched down in Cardiff’s Tramshed signalling for all men over 50 to don their long beards, heavy metal tees and dark biker-esque clothing, grab a pint and indulge in a spot of headbanging.
Having played with the big boys for some time – supporting the likes of the Rolling Stones, Mötley Crüe and Motörhead – the group are in the Welsh capital for their fourth visit since 2008, slinging their brand of 80s hard rock and still mining that seam, no doubt, hoping for the rock’n’roll gold struck by their long-haired predecessors.
Comparisons to fellow Aussies AC/DC should be understood by anyone with a musical ear. With a guitar tone and style almost identical to that of Angus Young, frontman Joel O’Keeffe plays the double role of lead singer and lead guitarist, behaving with such outlandish abandon that other members of the band almost appear as session musicians in comparison as he regularly takes up the limelight. Sitting atop someone’s shoulders whilst shredding pinky-burning licks as they parade him through the crowd, or headbanging furiously in front of a wall of Marshall amps all turned up to 11, the guy doesn’t let up for a moment – indeed, there’ll be no rendition of Candle In The Wind here.
If having no qualms about being unoriginal is a superpower, then Airbourne wear that badge with honour. Sticking to a formula that works, they display a kind of cartoon majesty, regularly belting out choruses that even someone with memory loss can master. Songs such as Breakin’ Outta Hell, Raise The Flag and Back In The Game are enough to entertain and get the audience going, resulting in fans occasionally attempting to crowdsurf, or sit atop their friend’s or lover’s shoulders trying to catch cups of water thrown at them from the stage.
If this wasn’t all high-octane enough, Bristolian support act Mother Vulture kick off proceedings, brandishing a more original, 21st-century take on hard rock while packing more energy than a Snickers Duo. Screamo in places, ear-bitingly loud and anyone’s guess as to what they were singing about, though evidently someone at some point had made them very, very angry, hints of Faith No More even overshadow the Chuckle Brothers-style dancing that randomly breaks out in the audience. The group successfully launch what was largely a light-hearted, fun and carefree evening. An after-party if you like, following in the steps of Metallica’s big showdown the evening before – albeit more intimate and budget-friendly.
Airbourne + Mother Vulture, Tramshed, Cardiff, Mon 29 June
words OLIVER R. MOORE-HOWELLS photos ANTHONY JAMES
