Lacuna Coil

Corporation has often played host to the top metal bands from across the globe, and tonight is no exception. Gracing the stage is the Italian metal group Lacuna Coil supported by Slaves to Gravity, both of whom have already played the Sheffield venue before. For those unaware, Lacuna Coil have already made great strides in the United Kingdom, headlining the metal lovers festival Bloodstock in 2007 as well as making frequent appearances at Download festival too. Lacuna have already become the greatest export from Italy alongside garlic bread and Pavarotti , and with the success of their current LP 'Shallow Life', it seems the band are only going to go from strength to strength.

London born Slaves to Gravity opened the proceedings in perfect style, offering up an enthusiastic performance that whipped the crowd up for the arrival of Lacuna. Slaves to Gravity played tracks from their debut record Scatter The Crow, including hard rock number 'Mr Regulator', which drew a positive response from those familiar with the band. Slaves to Gravity had to endure numerous issues with their equipment through their set, with the mic stand being hurled onto the drums, falling down constantly and in general becoming an obstacle for the band. Luckily frontman Tommy Gleeson took it all in his stride and was able to continue and complete a high polished, entertaining set.

The absence of any additional support could have been a disappointment for some, however such was the anticipation that fans were left much happier with getting a larger slice of Lacuna Coil. The band haven't played a show in Sheffield since promoting their 2006 release 'Karmacode', and wasted no time in getting started with 'Underdog' and 'I'm Not Afraid', both from their new album. Lacuna seem in good form tonight, with front woman/occasional model Cristina Scabbia name dropping Sheffield constantly much to the crowds delight. The show really got started when Scabbia + Co. brought in songs from their 'Karmacode' album, with hit single 'Closer' drawing a rapturous response. The show continued in the same energetic vein, with the band treating Sheffield to some of their older material dating as far back as the year 2000. Still, the loudest reaction was reserved for the bands infamous cover of 'Enjoy The Silence', turning Depeche Mode's signature song into one of their own. Numerous bands have covered this over the years but still Lacuna Coil's version stands head and shoulders above the others. In a live atmosphere, the song might even better the former new-wave legends version.

Finishing their 18 song set with a short encore, the band reserve two of their bigger hits including my own personal favourite 'Spellbound' and 'My Truth' to close an electric show. A night of classic Coil and sweaty Scabbia mixed with their varied new album is enough for any critic to recommend seeing the group for themselves.

Tom Crowther
www.myspace.com/tomsmusicblog - Further pics available here!