Big-time Skarlett Riot fan, Gary, reckons he first saw them play a free entry gig at West Street Live, and he’s still got the signed jacket to prove it. Safe to say, this band has a committed fanbase – one that even came bearing an early birthday present for frontwoman Chloe Drinkwater.
Now headlining their own tour, Skarlett Riot hit up Corporation last night with a stacked bill of metal, joined by Phonix Lake and Saints Among Us.
The northern melodic metal four-piece exploded onto the stage, marking the final leg of their UK tour in a way only they know how – big riffs, powerful vocals, and an unapologetic presence that had the front row packed before they’d even played a note.
Wasting no time, they launched straight into Human, setting the tone for a set full of commanding energy and sharp, polished musicianship. Chloe ‘Skarlett’ Drinkwater’s vocals cut through the heavy instrumentals with an effortless intensity, proving once again why this band’s reputation continues to grow. Their sound is a slick blend of melodic metal and hard rock, and last night, they delivered it with complete conviction.
Unsurprisingly, the setlist leaned heavily on their latest album Celestial, giving fans a live taste of their newest material. But it was the closing track, Gravity – taken from their 2021 album Invicta – that sealed the night, rounding things off in style before the band made time for fans eager to grab signed merch and a photo.
Nottingham’s Phonix Lake have been the constant support for this UK tour, and last night, they showed exactly why they’ve earned that spot. Emerging onto the scene in 2018, the four-piece bring a mix of melodic hard rock and metal that wouldn’t feel out of place alongside early Paramore – heavy, upbeat, and full of energy (high kicks included).
Their set offered up a taste of their signature blend of melodic metalcore, weaving in alluring vocals and tight harmonies with driving instrumentals. Lyrically, their music pulls from personal experience, crafting captivating storylines that hit home with the audience. Tracks from their debut EP Beyond The Flames (released June 2023) went down a storm, proving that the buzz around them is more than justified.
The last time Saints Among Us graced Corporation’s stage was as special guests at the Metal 2 the Masses finale, and they were clearly buzzing to be back. Hailing from Doncaster, this lot blend ethereal elements with metal, creating a dynamic, engaging performance that set the night up perfectly. From the first note, they pulled the crowd in, proving they were more than up to the task of kicking things off for a packed-out room.
With a line-up this solid, it’s no wonder Corporation was bouncing on a Thursday night. Skarlett Riot have once again proven they’re more than ready to take on the bigger stages, and with bands like Phonix Lake and Saints Among Us in the mix, the future of UK melodic metal is looking pretty strong.
