Judging by their epic melodic metal performance at a sparsely attended Logan’s Pub, All Else Fails are a criminally underrated band. These Edmonton guys play their music with technical skill, power, and conviction. All Else Fails have a sound that’s all their own, combining the punk stylings of Black Flag, the sludge metal fusion of Cancer Bats, and the melodic psychedelics of Pink Floyd.
Their songs pummelled the (unfortunately) small crowd with crunchy, discordant riffs, scorched-earth screaming, and thundering drums. While the band was definitely heavy enough to appease the most hardcore headbangers, they seamlessly weaved psychedelic synths and trippy vocal samples into their metal onslaught.
It was disheartening to see that Logan’s had all but emptied after the opening band, Two Years After and Counting, who gave a solid enough performance. Their fairly standard metal fare was supplemented by their undeniable stage presence; they really knew how to get the crowd moving.
The size of the crowd of remaining diehards must have been deflating for the headliners, who brought an impressive array of All Else Fails merch and were raring to go onstage as the openers played. Those who did stick around were treated to an unforgettable night.
All Else Fails is a band that epitomizes all that is right with heavy music today, defying the mainstream while remaining accessible, and fearlessly experimenting with unconventional styles and sounds. All Else Fails could gain a steady following outside of Alberta and be heard across North America, if only more people would come out to their shows. In the meantime, check out their album, Oracle, What Was, Is, and Could Have Been, for some essential listening.
I have seen All Else Fails in Vancouver twice and have bought their cds. They have amazing musical talent. There must be some classical training in there somewhere. I’ll go see them if they travel this way again.
Hey, I’m in the opening band of the night. Our band name is “Two Years and Counting” Thanks