Mixing Deathcore with Nu Metal, Newcastle based Misery Channel open up tonight’s show with a solid, ruthless, performance.  Taking elements from recent EP release “Loveless”, Misery’s set is strong and clearly well-rehearsed as they produce a tight, musically comprehensive, live show.  Formed from a collection of disbanded local acts, it’s great to see the players in Misery remaining resilient and come back seemingly stronger and hungrier than before.  Riding the momentum of Misery, Blackwater arrive on stage bang on 9 – jumping straight into their blend of hard, edgy, grungy, emo, rock.  Based around effects peddles and feedback, the trio maintain a distant, almost Mazzy-Starr/Dolores O’Riordan, aspect to their live sound – they’re in the room, and they’re loud, but there’s a vail between them and the audience of some description – something dreamlike, mezzanine-like.  Stand out track ‘Fade’ captures the essence of the band perfectly tonight – particularly star performer Katt Garrigan, who’s drumming forms a solid, almost Glittter-band, base for the interplay of Sunny Faris and Mikayla Mayhew’s bass and guitar work.  Getting heavier as the set progresses, and with very little audience participation, it’s clear that the trio are here to play – not to pander – to their audience.  Two great bands both doing interesting work.