Live Review from Christmas Chaos:
1. Freedom Withdrawal
2. Restless Paradox
3. Shadow In The Dark
4. Over Now
5. My Way (Limp Bizkit)
6. No Way
7. Free Run
It’s a chilly winter’s day leading up to Christmas and gig goers in puffer jackets are filing into the cozy Wave Music Studio in Kwun Tong, a tucked away hidden gem that’s easy to overlook if you don’t know where to go (I didn’t). With the intimate size and vibrant energy, the first band Labefaction hit the stage with an introduction that couldn’t have been more abrupt – one second the room was silent and dark, the next, the lights snapped to life in a wash of fiery red, and the air was filled with the raw, powerful roar of three guitars and a heavy bass. The opener to Freedom Withdrawal, a RATM inspired rap-metal track had verses of crazy guitar effects while the powerful groove had a few early movers dancing. By the chorus, most of the crowd was in sync, bodies swaying and heads banging to the intense rhythm. The band’s raw energy and tight performance quickly won over the room, setting the tone for a high-octane set. The second song, Restless Paradox, featured catchy call-and-answer verses and strong, dry vocals that didn’t need reverb to make an impact. The guitarist joined in on gang vocal melodies, adding to the energy. However, there was an awkward silence between this track and the next, disrupting the flow momentarily.
The third song, Shadow In The Dark, was a rock ballad that leaned heavily on its intense instrumental melodies, though at times the powerful instrumentals overshadowed the vocals. Despite this, the vocalist gave it his all, pouring raw emotion into every line. The following track, Over Now, shifted gears entirely with a grungy vibe reminiscent of The Smashing Pumpkins. It stood out as one of the more distinct pieces of the night, offering the audience a breather from the high-energy performances that preceded it. The vocalist maintained a laser-sharp focus, and after the song, he broke the intensity with some engaging crowd work, introducing the band and warmly inviting fans to visit their band room—a thoughtful touch that deepened the connection with the crowd.
The vocalist amped up the energy by calling for a circle pit, even though the venue was on the smaller side, setting the stage for their cover of Limp Bizkit’s My Way. The guitarist channeled Tom Morello vibes with turntable scratch sounds on his guitar, while a gnarly bass effect and what looked like an arsenal of high-end pedals added a unique texture. Not everyone in the crowd knew the cover, but they were into it regardless. Following that, No Way got the crowd jumping, with melodic guitars that brought Soundgarden to mind and a drummer who made intricate beats seem effortless. The momentum kept building with Free Run, a high-energy track reminiscent of Avenged Sevenfold, which had the entire crowd swaying along.
Labefaction closed out their set with the confidence and finesse of seasoned professionals, showcasing a refined sound that speaks to their experience and dedication. While their on-stage banter was minimal, their ability to connect with the crowd through their music was undeniable. Every note, beat, and lyric felt intentional, drawing the audience in and holding them captive until the very last chord. It’s clear that Labefaction doesn’t just play music—they embody it, leaving a lasting impression long after the final song.
– Sherman Leung
