Blackout Problems with Support from Lake Malice Manchester Academy 3, 13th November

Review By Paul McWilliams

An Electrifying Night of Rock and Riffs

On a cold and damp November evening, what better way to warm up than to experience a night of live music? As I approached Manchester Academy 3, the energy from the queue of eager fans hinted at the electric night ahead.

Lake Malice: A Force to Be Reckoned With

Opening the show was Lake Malice, a band making waves since their explosive set at Download Festival in 2023. From the moment they hit the stage, there was no holding back. Their sound was a perfect blend of heavy, hard-hitting riffs and intricate melodies, powered by Alice’s dynamic stage presence and stunning vocal range.

She seamlessly moved between soft, melodic tones and fierce hardcore screams, captivating the crowd from the very first note. Sxxxxxx’s guitar work stood out, delivering heavy riffs with a surprising lightness that added depth to their performance. His energetic movements across the stage mirrored the intensity of their sound. The audience was enthralled, and the band clearly left a lasting impression. I wouldn’t hesitate to catch them live again – they’re a band to watch.

Blackout Problems: A Dark and Powerful Set

From the first echoing notes of the atmospheric intro, “Trio,” it was clear that Blackout Problems were about to deliver something special. As the band launched into “DNA,” the room instantly erupted with energy. The thundering opener was the perfect choice to kickstart the set, throwing the crowd headfirst into the band’s relentless, high-energy performance. The stage, shrouded in dark lighting and flashes of vibrant hues, amplified the intensity and emotional pull of their songs, creating an atmosphere that was both captivating and immersive.

Each track in their setlist was a testament to their range and artistry. The anthemic “Whales” had the crowd moving in unison, its soaring chorus creating a wave of collective emotion that swept through the room. “Darling” provided a raw, tender moment, allowing the audience to connect with the band on a deeper, more intimate level, while the pulsating energy of “Germany Germany” brought the house down with its driving rhythm and infectious hooks.

What stood out most about Blackout Problems was their ability to blend raw intensity with introspective moments, crafting a dynamic set that kept the audience on their toes. This wasn’t just a collection of songs; it was a masterfully curated journey through their best material, one that took the crowd through highs and lows, making every moment unforgettable.

From start to finish, the band’s chemistry was undeniable. They played with precision and passion, feeding off the energy of the crowd, who didn’t miss a beat. Every chorus was met with enthusiastic sing-alongs, every riff with cheers and movement. The dark stage lighting added to the ambiance, framing each band member in moments of striking visual contrast and highlighting the emotion poured into their performance.

As the set progressed, the energy in the room continued to build. Tracks like “Stash” and “Quicker Than Death” brought a heavier edge, showing the band’s ability to switch gears seamlessly, while songs like “Blackroom” and “Onatrain” provided moments of reflection without losing their momentum. Each track seemed to resonate with the audience on a personal level, creating an almost tangible connection between the band and their fans.

When they finally closed the main set with “Limit” and “Talktome,” the crowd was buzzing, their cheers echoing through the venue. But the night wasn’t over. The band returned for an encore that included the haunting “Murderer” and the powerful “Rome,” before closing the night with the emotionally charged “Funeral.” This final song left the audience in awe, its somber yet uplifting tone providing a fitting end to an unforgettable night.

This wasn’t just another gig; it was a visceral experience. Blackout Problems proved why they’re a force to be reckoned with, delivering a show that was both powerful and deeply personal. Their ability to engage their audience, paired with their dynamic sound and stage presence, made this a night to remember.

Setlist:

Intro: Trio

1. DNA
2. Whales
3. Trouble
4. How to Voodoo
5. Driveby
6. Sorry
7. Puzzle
8. Blackroom
9. Darling
10. Quicker Than Death
11. Stash
12. Onatrain
13. Germany Germany
14. Brother
15. Limit
16. Talktome

Encore:

1. Murderer
2. Rome
3. Funeral

A stellar night that reminded everyone why live music remains one of the most thrilling experiences. Both bands brought their A-game, leaving the crowd buzzing long after the final note. Blackout Problems not only cemented their place as a must-see live act but also left their mark on every person in that room.