by Kenneth Smith of 2K7 Photography

The four-piece is self-described as a mix of hardcore, southern metal, and punk rock and definitely delivered a bit of each in their show-opening set.

Hailing from Toronto Canada, the Cancer Bats made a stop in Dallas this evening as part of their current tour with Bullet For My Valentine and Bleeding Through. The four-piece is self-described as a mix of hardcore, southern metal, and punk rock and definitely delivered a bit of each in their show-opening set.

Taking the stage at 7:30 to a quickly filling venue, the guys came out of the gates at full speed, immediately getting everyone in the place moving. Unfortunately it seemed as if lighting costs for the House of Blues might be rising like gas prices for the rest of us, considering the band virtually played in the dark. Adding to the growing energy exuding from the Bats stage performance, Vocalist Liam Cormier jumped from the stage and let one of the fans help him with his vocals.

By the end of their 30-minute set, the crowd was definitely pumped and the bar had been set for the rest of the show. With boundless energy, and heavy, heavy music that will most certainly get you amped up, this band delivered big. Aside from checking them out live, I also recommend picking up the new CD Hail Destroyer as soon as possible!

What do you think?