Gigraphy Galleries - Grey Daze, Rebellion Manchester, 16/05/24

Stopping off in Manchester last week as part of their first ever UK tour, alternative rock outfit Grey Daze put on an incredible show to fans who had been waiting nearly 30 years to finally see them live. Known for being the first band of legendary music figure Chester Bennington, this tour was also the first the band have ventured on since his death, appropriately naming it the 'For You Chester' tour.

The group were also supported by two incredible UK acts in the form of HIGH REGARD and Lost Atlas, who put on a pair of amazing performances. Find out and see more in our gallery of Josh's shots below, along with some of his thoughts, and don't forget to check out our interview with Grey Daze before they set out on the tour!

HIGH REGARD

First on the billing were HIGH REGARD, who completely blew me away straight off the bat. Everything was on point here, from lead vocalist Georgia Casey's stunning vocal range to the pumping riffs from guitarist Tom Townsend and bassist Matt Smith. With a style evocative of early Paramore, I can't stress enough that you should go check these out if you get the chance. The group are attending 2000 Trees festival later this year, so anyone who'll be down there should absolutely make sure you make their set.

North Atlas

Following on from HIGH REGARD were Glasgow outfit North Atlas, who completely dominated the stage with their combination of pop-rock anthems and Celtic and Norse imagery. The strobing white with deep red and blue lights set the tone perfectly, creating an atmosphere of mysticism that just have you transfixed. I caught North Atlas supporting Lost Society a few months ago and loved their performance and effortlessly unique style, and it was all on display again here. Thrown in a track that features some very large drums being beaten and making you feel as if you're on a rough longboat voyage in a storm, and you're onto a winner.

Grey Daze

When it came time for the main event, the fans were ready. Each member of the band came out to excited cheers, especially vocalist Cris Hodges who has the unenviable task of stepping into the shoes of one the most iconic vocalists of all time. Doing more than just meeting the vocal requirement however, Cris put on an incredible frontman performance, constantly interacting with the crowd who had outstretched arms towards him. Founding Grey Daze member Sean Dowdell was on drumming duty, and his passion for the band was present in every beat that shook through the venue.

My main takeaway from the set though was the fans, and the dedication they'd shown to the group throughout the years, breakups, lineup changes and all. You could feel the love that each and every person in attendance had for the band, with hands in the air reaching towards the stage and voices singing aloud only scratching the surface of understanding the passion they had. If you get a chance to see Grey Daze I would wholly recommend it, not only to see a piece of music history, but experience a chance to see it with some very dedicated people.