The finality of a statement can haunt you, but after tonight’s show, past declarations seemed irrelevant. A mind-blowing performance is cleansing, a reinstallation of faith and proof that a burning fire still exists in the belly of a select few. The Pussy Riot incident had a profound effect on Refused frontman Dennis Lxyzen, reminding him of the power of music and it was clear in the band’s performance tonight that they were there for the right reasons – recalling the original political and angst driven beginnings of the band. A lifeblood and vitality flowed through Refused as if they were in the peak of their career.
Support band Outright complemented the tone of the night perfectly. Singer Jelena Goluza has a humility and raw honesty about her that is sorely missed in music these days. She communicates what she feels strongly; not in a preaching manner but with intelligent argument that simply makes sense. Outright exacted a precise and relentless set bringing hardcore back to its core ethos.
Waiting is overrated, but it builds necessary tension and when a giant banner descended from the roof displaying the band’s moniker, the herd-like crowd only stamped their feet more. Finally the band skulked in behind the curtain and the guitar and drum intro to The Shape Of Punk to Come filtered out, then in blast of light the curtain fell to reveal Refused unleashed. Liberation Frequency hit next, followed by Refused Party Program, and a realisation quickly spread across the crowd: this is Refused and they are killing it. Instantly Lyxzen was in the realm, adrenalin coursing through his veins, parading the stage with a style and flair that to this day remains unchallenged in the punk/hardcore world. Ridiculous limber, suave and inventive in his movements, Lyxzen bounces between fired up punk madman to smooth, finger clicking, hip swivelling casanova and he owns that dichotomy.
Featuring material almost entirely from The Shape Of Punk To Come, a few older tracks made their way into the set including Rather Be Dead, Coup D’Etat and Hook, Line and Sinker. The show blistered on with a thundering ferocity but Lyxzen took the time to connect with The Palace punters and wipe the sweat from his brow. Incredibly excited to be there, the frontman expressed his gratitude in the reception that Refused had received on this tour and to the fans that had fuelled the band’s trajectory. Furthermore, the Swede acknowledged the primal and sexually charged air that can occupy the space of a rock‘n’roll show, with a growing bulge in his pants to demonstrate. Before things could get too out of control, it was over and Refused left the stage in a sweaty mess, only to return minutes later to drive New Noise home with manic intensity.
BY KRYSTAL MAYNARD
Photo credit: Simon Atkinson
Loved: Dennis legitimately getting a semi on stage
Hated: That I didn’t go Friday night as well
Drank: Not much, couldn’t risk losing a prime position with a trip to the ladies!
