Testament, Annihilator, Vader 2018-03-30

Testament’s current line-up is as good as you could want it to be, with Paul Bostoph and Steve Di Giorgio joining Skolnick, Peterson and Billy so it was no surprise this concert showcased virtuoso musicianship as much as the great songs in the band’s catalogue. Each band member except Chuck had a solo spot, which I thought was a bold move for each them that wasn’t Alex – for all their celebrated talent it’s hard to get a fair share of the limelight with that guy around.

There was also time for some songs though, and it was a good selection from several eras. For me, Alone in the Dark and Low were probably highlights but the songs from the new album Brotherhood of the Snake worked well live.

Most of all, you could just feel a sense that the band was having a great time, and this was also true of Annihilator. Jeff Waters was more loquacious and comedic than I recall from previous events and whilst he covered an awful lot of mileage around the stage his current sidekicks contributed to a high-energy performance. As a bone fide old git, I was happy enough to hear Alison Hell and WTYD, but the whole set was great.

Vader excellent too in a short but punishing opening set.