Dredg were supported by unconventional San Franciscan trio Judgement Day. Comprised of just a violinist, cellist and drummer, the three guys managed a powerful and engaging sound, comparable to, though somewhat more entertaining than, similar better known acts like Finnish cello-rockers Apocalyptica. Although their style was somewhat restrictive and dependent upon a gimmick, the band’s showmanship and individual musical virtuosity were more than enough to stop this being a problem.

Dredg rocked Scala hard

Headliners Dredg again demonstrated an impressive and mature act, aided by the fantastic quality of sound the venue and setup provided. They played an eclectic set, combining tracks and styles from across their wide and varied back catalogue. They managed to find a good balance between playing their new material, focussing heavily on 2005’s Catch Without Arms and The Pariah, The Parrot, The Delusion (released in June this year) throughout the first half of their set and then moving onto fan-service tracks from their more progressive earlier albums. The crowd were responsive and enthusiastic and the band interacted well to the comfortable atmosphere, joking with the fans and even taking a few requests. To add a special take to the show, Dredg invited their tour mates (minus their drummer) back on stage during many of the songs they played, adding further depth to their sound and slightly alternate takes on the recorded versions of the tracks. With an entertaining finale in which the singer and road-crew dismantled the drum-kit as it was played, Dredg gave an unusual and accomplished performance, a fitting end to their headlining European tour.

Words by Timothy Clements