Ice Jam 2012 - January 15th, 2012 - Sonar

We kicked off 2012 with a couple of really good shows. Trivium on January 14th and Ice Jam on the 15th. A two day event at Sonar, Ice Jam is made up of hardcore and post hardcore bands for the most part. Starting at 1pm each day, the two stages were filled throughout the day as kids moved to and fro the two rooms in the club. It's really a day to familiarize yourself with who is who is the scene and introduce yourself to new bands on the horizon.

Day 2 had the show competing with a football game as the Ravens were in town but you couldn't tell that as the line was wrapped around the building in the freezing cold waiting for the doors to open. Sure there were TV screens in the VIP lounge where the game was playing but for the most part that area was empty except for in between band sets.

For us things didn't get really started until Memphis May Fire hit the stage. By this time the football game was over and those stragglers that were watching the game at home or in bars came on down to the club. From the beginning drum beats and guitars of their set, the crowd was in action with bodies flying over the barricade into the arms of the club staff. Memphis May Fire put on a solid although short set which is usual for these type of festivals. They definitely left the crowd wanting more.

The second stage this day was running behind due to technical difficulties during one of the sets so Dr Acula, the headliner for that stage, went on a bit late. That didn't deter those fans that might have had to choose between them and whomever was on the main stage. The second stage room was packed with a pit for the entire set. This stage didn't have a barricade so every so often a stage diver would make their way to the stage to jump off. Luckily the crowd was tight and able to support him.

With just the main stage running as I See Stars and Attack Attack! took the stage, the room's energy and dynamics kicked up a few notches. Both bands are well known and have new albums coming out soon with Attack Attack!'s just days away. Both bands reminded fans of their upcoming releases as well as blended new songs into their sets that were already well known by their fans. The night ended with the crowd wanting more but as we all know these festival type shows are held on schedule and the night was over.

Interview with Ricky & Jesse of Dr Acula @ Ice Jam



Interview with Sonny of Close Your Eyes @ Ice Jam