This year’s pre-Tet show lined up Russian heavy hitters Slaughter to Prevail and a whole host of regional support with Saigon’s Knife Sticking Head, Pick Supplier, District 105, and Infecated and Cambodia’s Doch Chkae all bringing the lunar year to a close with a bang.

As I got there, I caught the last couple of songs from Infecated, so I missed Knife Sticking Head and Pick Supplier, unfortunately. I’m sure they crushed it as they always get the kids moving. I’d never seen Infecated, and their blend of death metal brought the ruckus. Heads banged, horns were thrown up, breakdowns were moshed to…

Phnom Penh’s Doch Chkae took the stage following Infecated and straight up destroyed. I hope they play in Saigon sooner than later. I have a feeling there are much bigger things in store for these kids.

Next up, the homies, District 105 did their thing with their beat down hardcore moshy goodness. Circle pits, finger pointing, and a stage dive or 6.

Slaughter to Prevail rounded the show out. I don’t quite understand how their singer Alex gets his voice to do what it does, but it’s ridiculous. Couple that with super heavy breakdowns, crazy blast beats and a damn good stage presence and you always have a recipe for good times. That said, interestingly, their guitarist was absent and the guitar was a recording. Hopefully that’s not an indicator of any permanent changes and just a matter of temporary “shit happening.” Either way, still a great set and I can imagine it would be that much better once the guitar issue is sorted.

Can’t wait for what the new year brings. Let’s get it.