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Kublai Khan TX / Photo – @drewhillphotos

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KUBLAI KHAN TX
+ Terror + Guilt Trip
@ Prince Bandroom, Melbourne,
24th August 2024
(Live Review)

Review and photos by Drew Hill (@drewhillphotos)

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Kublai Khan TX / Photo – @drewhillphotos

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On a bustling Saturday night in St Kilda, The Prince Bandroom played host to a packed-out show that had hardcore fans buzzing with anticipation. Headlined by Kublai Khan TX, with support from legendary acts Terror, UK’s Guilt Trip, and local openers Splinter, the event was an all-out showcase of heavy hardcore music done right. The small venue was the perfect setting for an intimate and chaotic hardcore experience, and it didn’t disappoint.

Splinter kicked off the night with a fierce energy that set the tone. Though the stage diving hadn’t yet begun, their aggressive sound and relentless performance grabbed the crowd’s attention. Splinter’s set was characterized by tight, punchy breakdowns and raw, guttural vocals that echoed throughout the venue. The band did an excellent job of warming up the crowd, laying the groundwork for what was to come.

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Guilt Trip / Photo – @drewhillphotos

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When Guilt Trip took the stage, the energy truly began to shift. Hailing from the UK, the band brought a distinct style with them—hard-hitting riffs, infectious grooves, and aggressive vocals that ignited the crowd. It was during their set that the stage dives and crowd surfing kicked into full gear, with fans taking the opportunity to launch themselves into the pit and get up close with the band. Vocalist Jay Valentine commanded the stage with authority, while guitarist Harry Rule delivered crushing riffs that had the crowd moving from start to finish.

Next up were Terror, a name synonymous with hardcore. Vocalist Scott Vogel, a veteran of the scene, proved why he’s one of the most respected frontmen around. His presence was undeniable, moving across the stage and engaging with the crowd, who screamed every word back at him. The band’s set was packed with fan favorites, from “Keepers of the Faith” to “Overcome,” each one delivered with razor-sharp precision by guitarist Martin Stewart and bassist Chris Linkovich. Before launching into a particularly heavy breakdown, Vogel took a moment to remind everyone of the importance of looking out for each other—a moment of unity amidst the chaos.

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Terror / Photo – @drewhillphotos

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By the time Kublai Khan TX hit the stage, the room was a sweltering mix of sweat, adrenaline, and excitement. Frontman Matt Honeycutt, with his intense and brooding delivery, led the charge as the band tore through their setlist. From the crushing “The Hammer” to the groove-laden “Self-Destruct,” Kublai Khan brought an unrelenting wall of sound, powered by guitarist Nolan Ashley and bassist Eric English. Drummer Isaac Lamb kept the intensity high, driving the band forward with punishing rhythms.

What made the night stand out was the band’s connection with the crowd. With no barrier separating the band from their fans, the interaction was constant. Honeycutt was in full command, even handing the mic over to fans for some screams, while Ashley and English threw out picks at the end of the show. The room, now drenched in sweat, felt like a pressure cooker, but the sense of camaraderie and shared passion for the music made it a night to remember.

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Kublai Khan TX / Photo – @drewhillphotos

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While the sound was excellent throughout the night, the lighting was fairly static, with all bands essentially performing under the same dim setup. A more dynamic light show could have enhanced the overall experience, but in the end, it was the music and energy that stole the show.

The Prince Bandroom’s intimate setting was perfect for this kind of event, allowing fans to feel fully immersed in the music and energy of each performance. From Guilt Trip igniting the crowd’s first stage dives to Terror’s call for unity and Kublai Khan’s relentless set, the night was a masterclass in hardcore. By the time the final note rang out, there was no need for an encore—Kublai Khan had made their mark, leaving the crowd exhausted but exhilarated.

For fans of heavy music, this was an unforgettable night that exemplified the power and passion of the hardcore scene.

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Kublai Khan TX / Photo – @drewhillphotos

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Check out Drew Hill’s (@drewhillphotos) full gallery of this event HERE

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Kublai Khan TX / Photo – @drewhillphotos

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Kublai Khan TX / Photo – @drewhillphotos

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AMNPLIFY – DB