Pierce the Veil at the Underworld, Camden

Pierce the Veil were born out of the San Diego rock scene in 2006, founded by brothers Vic and Mike Fuentes. Their latest album, Collide with the Sky, was released on 17^th July 2012, and this is their first ever headlining tour under the major record label Fearless Records.

The Underworld was a good choice of venue for American post-hardcore band Pierce the Veil to host their first head-lining London show last night. Although a small venue (capacity around 500 people), The Underworld has gained a reputation as one of London’s foremost clubs, hosting up-and-coming artists as well as established rock and metal bands. The sell-out show was highly anticipated, and online their fans pre-empted a first class show. There were expectations to be met by the Vic and Mike Fuentes, Jaime Preciado and Tony Perry. With several worldwide tours under their belts, this low profile show was surely going to be another one of many. However, they proved us wrong, playing with as much zest as when they play arenas and festivals.

Arriving at The Underworld, a throng of dedicated fans waited in the rain for over an hour to be the first into the venue; entering the dingy, charming underground club there was an air of impatience and excitement. The crowd was the expected mix of rockers and teenagers, most of whom were wearing Pierce the Veil t-shirts. The band has a reputation for animated and energetic shows, we were curious to see how they would fit their energy on such a small stage – yet they managed it. The Underworld is an intimate venue, and this made a huge difference for the fans, who could get within touching distance of the band.

When Pierce the Veil appeared, the room was brought down with screaming girls. We were momentarily transported back to the 60s, with the screams and young women actually trying to clamber on stage to get just a moment with their idols. It’s rare to hear to such female dominated screams of ecstasy. It was quite impressive. The stage set up was good, uncluttered and bright. Each member of the band had a spotlight, drummer Mike Fuentes played on a small platform so not to be missed – although that would have been impossible. He often dominated the stage with his thrashing and screaming, sweat flew off of him into the spotlight – it actually looked as though it was raining at times!

Lead vocalist Vic Fuentes delighted the crowd by naming this show their best ever. They played with what looked like genuine love – with beaming smiles and they often exchanged looks of satisfaction with one another, there were even some brotherly hugs between songs. Vic Fuentes spoke fondly of England and of their touring experiences. Pierce the Veil are quite the crowd pleasers, but as previously mentioned, are seemingly very genuine with it.

The set list did not disappoint either. They played songs from their previous albums, and all their classics. The crowd sung along for the duration of the show – it was as though every person there was a die-hard fan. Musically/technically speaking, all four band members played impeccably and with ease– switching instruments every couple of songs showed how dedicated they are to their sound. They incorporate nearly every style from the rock cannon without sounding too clichéd, which is quite an achievement.

Pierce the Veil have created their own sub genre, whether or not in jest we’re unsure – Mexicore. We couldn’t agree that they’ve created their own sub genre, a lot of music has been born in the vein of Bring Me The Horizon, A Day To Remember and similar songs. Pierce the Veil are not the first, and will not be the last to play this style of music, so we are not sure about Mexicore. Perhaps they are the only Latino band on the scene at the moment, but coining this genre as their own is a bit cheeky. Nonetheless, a great show, played with genuine love for their music, and appreciation of their fans. Collide with the Sky should be a great success.

Lauren Poole

For further information and future gigs visit Pierce the Veil’s website here.

Watch the video for King For A Day ft. Kellin Quinn here: