Live Photos + Review: Red Fang, Wolf Wizard, Sere - Whammy Bar, Auckland

Portland trailblazers Red Fang played a sold out show at Auckland's Whammy Bar on Saturday. The drizzly evening was no deterrent, Whammy was filled to the brim with damp dads, snotty punks and lovers of stoner metal. The low ceiling harboured the familiar fragrance of hops and weed.

I spotted two super-fans kitted out in homemade armour pieced together from crumpled beers cans and empty dozen boxes. If you have seen the video for 'Prehistoric Dog' you’ll know what I am talking about. Noticing the pit barriers in place, I sensed that punters were ready to party.

Green light basked the stage suitably so for the swampy sounds that were to come. Local band Sere set things off with their unique sound of psychedelic drone and sneaker gazing sludge. Hamilton’s Wolf Wizard were equally impressive. Their Cantrell-esque solos had the crowd spilling pints as the momentum of the floor began to stir.

In 2015 Red Fang performed a highly memorable show at The Kings Arms. Arriving hours late to the venue the loyal crowd stuck it out until the band arrived early in the AM. Bassist and singer Aaron Beam was literally beaming as he gushed nostalgically over the legendary gig. I felt a bond was forged that night, one the band would never forget as they proclaimed it to be one of their best shows ever.

Tonight, the crowd lapped it up once again as they served up 'Blood Like Cream'. Between each song we were met with a genuine appreciation."This is fucking rad!" screamed Beam before dousing the crowd in water. They played a healthy mix from each of their albums. The bouncy poppy 'Cut it Short' from Only Ghosts, and Wires and 'Hunt it Down' from Murder the Mountains were stand outs. Beam challenged the crowd to dance as they performed "dance songs about death" and the punters did just that. Kids slammed and surfed as the band perched over the barrier. 'Crows in Swine', 'Malverde' and 'Throw Up' with Bryan Giles on singing duties were personal highlights. That guy can bellow! As the best gigs always seem to, the night was almost over in a flash. I removed my earplugs to receive the full weight for the encore. Love your work Red Fang.

Check out photographer Connor Crawford's snaps of the show below...