A rave-like atmosphere descended upon Preston's 53 degrees venue, as electronic rock artists Pendulum exploded from their 2 month break with an enthusiastic performance.
Following their hit appearances at both Download and Leeds/Reading last year, expectations were running high as DJ Ash Howell* built the suspense steadily from soon after the doors opened. There were delays at the start of the performance, but this only worked to excite the audience more.
The set opened with Showdown, as lead singer Rob Swire ad-libbed the lines to include the venue and encourage the crowd even more. Fans were soon bouncing along, screaming and dancing as the band played some of their biggest hits, including Propane Nightmares, Blood Sugar and Fasten Your Seatbelt.
One of Pendulum's biggest charms is the way the band appeals to all audiences, and this was exercised to the full throughout the performance. The atmosphere grew more intense with the rappy ad-libbing to The Other Side, as once again the crowd was worked by the band into an energetic frenzy.
Taking things to another level, guitarist Perry ap Gwynedd introduced a pumping rock solo into Mutiny, before Hold Your Colour enticed the crowd into a monologued countdown through the break.
The encore consisted of awaited tracks, Tarantula and Granite, bringing the evening to a close with a finale that sent the crowd wild, shoving and fighting in some places, and leaping energeticly in others. The lively atmosphere was overwhelming throughout, kicking off their latest tour in the best possible fashion. Six years of UK performances, and they are still going just as strongly.
Kirsty Watkinson
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