D.R.I, 308, KILLRAZER, SPEEDBALL: The Zoo, Brisbane, 24/02/24
Positioned near the bar, with an optimal view from the 308 merch desk, I observed a dynamic assembly of 80s punks and metalheads swiftly filling The Zoo, nearly reaching its 400-head capacity.
Amidst the sea of mohawks and battle jackets, this crossover gig became an unforgettable spectacle. The venerable sound engineer treated us to an onslaught of thunderous beats and rhythms, creating an inescapable heavy metal embrace that resonated through the chest with each bass and kick drum pulse.
Kicking off the night was the local black/thrash ensemble 308, a band etched in my memories from as far back as 2008. The hometown favorites wasted no time in igniting a fervent circle pit, delivering brutal vocals and unleashing thrash explosions in tracks like "Atomic Assault" and "Baptised in Bullets."
Following them was my first encounter with Killrazer. Notably, promoter Doug joined them for an impeccable set. The band's intensity drew the crowd into a loud and brutal dance of appreciation, with everyone else belting out lyrics and jumping around. Although I didn't know them before, their performance left an indelible mark on my memory.
Hailing from Sydney, Speedball roared onto the stage, proudly representing the punk crew. The crowd, seemingly levitating, chanted "Speedball, Speedball," creating a scene unto itself. Their set was fast, heavy, and relentless, explaining the rapid disappearance of their CDs from the merch table.
The much-anticipated guests of honor, D.R.I, originating from Houston, USA, finally took the stage, prompting a collective eruption of appreciation from every voice in the venue.
D.R.I, with their blend of thrash/punk/rock/metal, delivered a blistering 90-minute set to the mass gathering. Four decades of Dirty Rotten Imbeciles filled The Zoo with a legion of longtime fans and newcomers alike, experiencing U.S.A thrash for the first time. Clothing was torn, safety pins were shared with smiles, and the pit-goers' unity exemplified our tightly-knit community.
A notable encounter was with a punk enthusiast who carried a gig poster from 1987, seeking autographs. His passion mirrored the dedication of many others who have embraced these icons for decades—stories of loyalty and connection unfolded throughout the night.
Embarrassed by my initial lack of familiarity, I now eagerly anticipate seeing all the bands again. Despite the brutal sounds, these musicians exhibited the manners of saints, and The Zoo, true to form, proved an excellent venue choice.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/71HW5V0xHx589Nup6JFRc5?si=59d943f889954d56
