BRIDEAR
THE CASTLE AND FALCON, BIRMINGHAM
Japan’s metal bravehearts keep their kaleidoscope spinning
Bridear bring a trove of gifts to the home of metal
KATJA OGRIN
ALMOST A YEAR since the Into The Dark Forever tour hit this very Birmingham venue, the sky’s been the limit for Japan’s Bridear. When fourth full-length Aegis Of Athena exploded like a technicolour blitzkrieg earlier this year, it showcased J-metal unlike many acts before them, with a sonic grandeur lovingly offset by an endearing charm and lyrical sincerity. And there’s a certain, but nonetheless welcome feeling of déjà vu tonight, as the punters are plunged into darkness and a markedly revered silence for these high-energy mavens. Until an unidentified sneeze from the stage ensues and a comedic shout of “Bless you!” breaks it, that is.