Defects deliver a hard-hitting set at The O2 Islington 2

The energy that was felt at The O2 Islington 2 on Sunday night was nothing short of explosive as Defects hit London on a headlining tour, with support from Knife Bride and Profiler. All we can say is that WOW… Defects just proved why they’re one of the fastest-rising names in the UK metalcore scene.

The night started off strong with a killer opening from Knife Bride. The evening began with bass-heavy breakdowns and melodic roars from lead singer, Mollie, that had the crowd instantly head banging. For an opener, Knife Bride felt like anything but — it honestly felt like they owned that stage, it’s no wonder they are performing at festivals such as Download! And it just proves that they are a testament to their unique sound and onstage energy. Their vocalist’s raw screams cut through the crowd and rallied the audience into movement, with a circle pit breaking out in the homely venue. With the kind of stage presence that makes you raise your fist and bang your head, Knife Bride’s set was an ideal start and the perfect band to open this heavy night.

Profiler hit the stage next, with an early 2000s inspired nu-metal energy that only added to the intensity that Knife Bride delivered, I could only think of Limp Bizkit when I saw this band take to the stage! From the moment that first note was played, the room filled with energy once again, every jump and slam punctuated by their relentless drum beats…. Big up Brad Ratcliffe! Seriously though, each member was giving their all in a whirlwind 30-minute set that flew by.

After a short changeover, Defects grasped the stage and made that room let loose. Vocalist Tony Maue wasted no time, diving right into the set (and the pit!) with incredible growls and raw, relentless intensity. This man is absolutely incredible and we can’t get enough of him! The band’s stage presence was undeniable, with Maue frequently jumping onto the barrier to connect directly with fans. Though, his interactions weren’t just limited to the crowd; he locked eyes with photographers, looking directly down the lenses to provide incredible moments.

Bassist David Silver and guitarists Luke Genders and James Threadwell kept the energy high, each finding moments to interact directly with fans, leaning over the barrier as they shredded some real heavy riffs. These moments of fan connection elevated the experience for everyone in the room, turning a typical show, in the cozy venue, into a genuine metalcore celebration. I have to say, I was pretty bummed about missing what looked like an incredible set at Manchester just a few nights before on Halloween but I did not feel left out at this gig. I don’t think anyone did, it was an absolutely incredible set and a real metal family feeling in the room.

With every bass breakdown and gut wrenching growl, Defects balanced heaviness with emotional weight, moving effortlessly from hard-hitting riffs to choruses and lyrics that tugged at the heartstrings. It’s clear the band has honed their craft over years, touring with the likes of Bullet for My Valentine and Funeral for a Friend. Defects aren’t just another heavy act; they’re a band that knows how to connect onstage, bringing raw power and deep emotion together to create an incredible metal gig.

If you are looking for a new, up and coming metal core band to add to your playlists - we strongly recommend that you check Defects out right now!