road story (excerpt)

Channel Zero and Damn The Machine have been on by this time, but it’s now Freak Of Nature’s turn so everyone leaves the dressing room to watch their label-mates. Paradise Lost then use Riverdogs’ slot to get ready, yet before too long the first trauma gets signalled by people running around frantically searching for a non-existent DAT machine. So much for the intro tape. The second trauma is much more serious however. A heated discussion ensues when headliners Dream Theater demand that Paradise Lost shorten their set. PL basically don’t see why, on a festival bill, the running times are any of Dream Theater’s business. It all gets pretty ugly, but the anger and frustration translate into power once Paradise Lost take the stage. During those moments when the guitars are audible over a truly abysmal sound it’s a great show, and Nick Holmes is only telling the truth when he eventually roars, “This is our last song, so with that in mind I’d just like to say what a pleasure it is to be the only true metal band on this whole fucking festival!”

The brilliant Warrior Soul come on next, unveiling their drastic new Jane’s Addiction meets the New York Dolls look. Aaron has emerged to watch them, and it takes him several minutes to get over the shock. Dream Theater finish up the night, but Paradise Lost have already wandered off to take showers, locate their ever-present books, and otherwise prepare for their drive back to Germany.