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Monday 31 March 2014

Gig Review - Marie GC - Killswitch Engage

It’s always such an amazing atmosphere at a show like this with my view from the photo pit. The security guards in good spirit as they engage in banter with the photographers, and pass cups of water to the thirsty front barrier clingers; which by this point looking rather red faced from Trivium’s set, but clearly not budging - for they have made it this far. The sold out venue goes pitch black, and all attention is on the stage as Killswitch Engage appear to soundtrack ‘Eye of the Tiger’ - which couldn’t be more befitting to the performance as they certainly didn’t pull any punches.


Everyone, quite frankly, goes mental as the eccentric Adam D runs across the stage in his “daisy dukes”. Clearly he will be up to his usual stage antics! As the intro fades they blast straight into ‘A Bid Farewell’, the whole of Brixton Academy is consumed with a spectacular lighting display and eruption of energy.


Jesse Leach owns the stage, his vocals - effortless, and his engaging with the crowd – humble, as he nails tracks from the Howard Jones era. It’s evident they have moved forward, and Jesse proves he is most certainly one of the most formidable frontmen in metal. From their latest album ‘Disarm the Descent’, tracks ‘New Awakening’ and ‘In Due Time’ sit perfectly in the set alongside the Killswitch classics. Adam D provides the usual comedy moments, along with the memorable riffs that are the foundation of their sound, yet his strong stage presence doesn’t detract from Jesse. Duelling guitars and fierce drumming complete the perfect package. 


Ending in perfection with an Encore ‘My Curse’, they left the hairs on the back of my neck standing – ever so slightly taller than Trivium. 


Thursday 20 March 2014

Interview with Tattoo Artist Hannah Lightspeed

Whilst browsing Twitter I discovered the amazing tattoos of Camden based artist Hannah Lightspeed. I decided to reach out to Hannah for a chat about her work. Hannah kindly agreed to take some time out and answer my burning questions! 



 Hannah Lightspeed Tattoo Artist
How long have u been tattooing?
I think its about 2 years. I got into tattooing as I loved getting tattooed myself. I have a masters in animation but decided to get into fashion. I designed jewellery for Topman for 3 years, but it was too corporate! I'm not good with authority.... So I got an apprenticeship in a studio in Essex and quit everything, moved back home, and worked my ass off!

Where do you find inspiration?
In anything and everything!  I have an MA in 2d animation so drawing has been in my life in a major way. Music is a great inspiration also.


What music do you like listening to while tattooing?
I like cheesy pop punk, or chick rock like crucified Barbara :)


What is your favorite part of the job?
Making people happy? (Cheesy i know) When you put a permanent piece of artwork on someone and they love  it, or its someones first tattoo? ? They will remember you always. That's a good feeling!  :)


Do you have a favorite/most memorable tattoo? 
I tattooed the inside of both of some guys ears, acupuncture spots... to help his drug and alcohol addiction,  it felt like I made a difference :)

Are you going to be tattooing at any upcoming events?
Yes ill be at The Great British tattoo show in May. Further details of the event can be found below. 


Hannah can be found on Instagram here and works from Believe In Ink Studio, 86 Camden High St, NW1. (Tel - 02074821311)