Iceage

100 Club, London

Tuesday night at the iconic 100 Club, the stage was graced by Scandinavian post-punk band Iceage. Having gradually gained major notoriety over the last 5 years, it was a sell-out-show filled with excited boys and girls of all ages. With a clearly dedicated fan base, the band sauntered on stage with an undeniable air of cool and nonchalance, that could’ve been viewed as understated respect for their audience.

Supported by UK artist Helm, some may have found this brash noise act with the occasional dance beat some what out of place. That said, it wasn’t unbearable and we occasionally found ourselves nodding along to whatever noise he was playing at the time.

Stepping closer to the stage after the support act, we were surrounded by jubilant shoving which ultimately just felt too passionate along side the casual pessimism of Iceage’s back catalogue. Whilst the general appearance that comes from bands like Iceage is composed and uninterested with audience interaction, singer Elias Ronnenfelt spent the entirety of their set stalking up and down the small stage glaring into onlookers eyes one at a time in the most self-consciously intimidating way. Nonetheless, this concern with their stage presence tied nicely to the themes of latest songs such as The Lord’s Favourite.

Refusing to play any songs from their first album, there was a blatant disappointment between the spectators at the end of the show. However it’s hard not to admire the band’s attempts at moving on from their past image in a harsh and brutal way. The same way that shines through on their latest album.

Tumbling out of the 100 Club onto Oxford Street, panting with grins plastered across their faces, it seems that the majority enjoyed the show. Though it’s not what we initially expected, it was well worth the shock.