Review: Dead Freights, Papillon, Southampton, September 15

By Anita Foxall. Photos by Chris Martin.

Local band Dead Freights headlined a fantastic show at Papillon on the 15th of September.

It was very exciting to have the band performing in their home town again, especially in an incredible new venue. Papillon was probably known to us all as a restaurant, and a very beautiful historic one as well, but not as a venue. This was in fact only the second gig that took place there, and hopefully this is just the (excellent) beginning of many more to come.

The Dead Freights describe themselves as ‘The Beatles of Death Metal, Nirvana John Misty.Putting the ABBA in Black Sabbath’. Therefore when you go to a Dead Freights gig expect power, efficiency, charisma and intense rock energy; a dark heavy sound loaded with poetry.

It was also the time to introduce the to new band members who brought a seamless transition: Brogan (guitar) and Stonesy (bass). Charlie’s charisma, stage presence and voice were outstanding; and even though he was sat in the dark at the back, Louis’ mighty presence was felt with his incredible drumming.

The encore started in quieter fashion with Charlie on the keyboards to take us on a different intro for ‘Who Said Scared’ to then explode again in its magnificent darkness. 

The Dead Freights have been gaining very deserved recognition in the last years, more recently by touring with The Libertines as their opening band.

Sculpt and Canned Pineapple were solid, fun opening bands and set up the energetic mood for the evening.

Brighton based Canned Pineapple have played Southampton three times in the last three months, and it’s unsurprising that they have attracted some fans here already. They bring so much fun vigour to their shows, it’s impossible not to feel compelled to them.

This was an evening of pure music passion in a most fantastic venue.

Links for The Dead Freights’ social media:

Dead Freights | Facebook

Dead Freights – Official Website

Dead Freights | Spotify

DEAD FREIGHTS (@deadfreights_band) • Instagram photos and videos