Minus - by their own admission - seem to regret the unblinking eye of commercialism that has forced the term ‘melodic’ to appear on their recent release.

In reality though, it presents itself as something entirely different, as the audience are treated to a journey of progression through Minus’ sound. Moving through from beginning to the present, it becomes instantly obvious that even though the sound is polished to a fine sheen on the albums, their personality and drive are shown so much more in the raw energy they pump out on stage, no matter where or what restrictions have been placed upon them.

For the most part, the Icelandic sound has never been so drunken, so violent and so far removed from any other native artist that has received exposure. Tonight, though, Minus finally manage to destroy the stereotype of atypical ambient mood music we’ve seen from the likes of Bjork and Sigur Ros. In saying that, though, there are numerous subtle nods to Bjork’s first band the Sugarcubes throughout the course of the evening.
 
The comparison in music styles always falls immediately to early Queens of the Stone Age but that’s where the comparison ends, as instead of burning out like Queens have done, Minus keep on evolving, spewing out a relentless torrent of musical architecture.

Even the loss of their bass player Þröstur and guitarist Frosti has done little to prevent the band from fulfilling their destiny as Iceland’s greatest known rock band, recruiting Future Futures bassist Siggi to take their place. The result is a resonating new positive energy in their latest album – a release that will surely take them further than they have been before.

Distortion-heavy favourites Romantic Exorcism and My Name is Cocaine kick the set off, proving that they’re not planning on focusing the whole night around their latest release, The Great Northern Whilekill. Next up, Minus fall effortlessly into Cat’s Eyes before subtly plugging the new single, Throwaway Angel, which still has the power to blow you away.

Playing live, vocalist Krummi has an overwhelmingly distinct voice, and as you stand and watch you’re almost waiting for him to push so hard that his voice breaks, leaving him incapable of singing ever again. And yet somehow – as if by instinct – he knows when to push and when to save his efforts, instead acting up to the role as perfect front-man.

Housed in Rock City’s basement room, it’s a little disappointing that a band of such promise and history aren’t given the space and recognition of the main hall to throw a good gig. Tormented by drunks stumbling around to get to the club night rather than the performance, tonight’s show really does deserve better respect. 

Minus don’t seem to care, though. “We just want to just play and get the chance to enjoy ourselves”, drummer Bjossi explains, downing the double in his hand. “We’re here to get pissed tonight!”

It’s somewhat humbling to see a band on their fourth release still willing to get down and dirty. Minus are providing a fresh perspective on metal - write it off or avoid it at your own risk.