Gig Reviews: Disturbed - London Astoria (06 September 2002)

by Steph Gallon

Much anticipation hangs in the air over the forthcoming gig. This first becomes apparent standing outside queuing to enter the London Astoria. Standing in the crowd it seems clear that this anticipation has easily been mistaken for expectation or, rather, lack of it - in that no one really has a clue what they're about to witness. Disturbed have long been absent from the live scene in the UK, blamed mainly on the September 11th tragedy and the recording of their new album, 'Believe', follow up to 2000's massive hit 'The Sickness'. It all hangs on tonight, with the previewing of their new album tracks before they've even had our reaction. Brave, some might say. Others call it stupid.

Having bypassed security and a man with a bible and a megaphone, we enter the venue. The first band on are Colchester's One Pity, an unknown band bringing a raging set of 'Emo' hardcore. A differing sound to Disturbed, but if the fans mind they don't show it. These guys don't mess about, and soon their roaring vocals, thrashing instruments and funky mixes have the pit whipped into frenzy. The lead holds back a lot, almost astonished by the crowd's reaction, but it doesn't affect them, or the ongoing enthusiasm of the fans.

Unusually after only one support band, it's the turn of Disturbed. As the lights dim, anticipation and sweaty expectation gives way to the appearance of David Draiman, the pierced leather clad character, and only man that could carry off a studded string vest in a metal concert.

Opening with the infectious 'Voices' Draiman grabs the crowd by the horns and drags them on for the ride with his growling powerful voice, strutting moves and occasional speeches. The new material passes by with the crowds seeming approval providing a mellow and welcome release to the frantic pace fuelled by songs such as 'The Game' and 'Shout 2000'.

Ending this rollercoaster of emotion and discovery are 'Down with the sickness' and 'Stupify' leaving the crowd exhausted and wanting more.

Disturbed may have been written off by some as a comical and contemporary version of Black Sabbath, but this gig has shown them as one of the freshest and original bands on this oh so crowded 'metal' scene. Disturbed aren't just performers they're entertainers - doing tonight what they do best, providing pure viewing pleasure.