I have to admit downstairs at Spectrum is definitely not my favourite venue. It would be perfect if I were 6 foot tall (the fact that I'm not explains why there are no photos accompanying this review) or if I wanted to stand half a metre away from the band copping bits of their sweat and being nudged and hit from much bigger people than myself. I braved the venue tonight though, as Hand of Mercy are definitely a band worth doing so for.

One Vital Word were engaging in the support slot. They seemed to have quite a following within the crowd, and all the 6 foot tall males in the room were clearly enjoying the view. Personally I couldn't see a thing, but all I really need at a gig is to hear and I could definitely hear One Vital Word as their punk-hardcore sound blasted this small room. This is a pretty tight band; the guitars, vocals and drums all seem to merge together seamlessly to create an energetic performance. A band I wouldn't mind seeing again in a different venue (where I can see them).

Changeover time, I enjoyed people watching, a sea of black band tees, tattoos and skinny jeans, typical Hot Damn night. I always feel out of place at HD, but its all about the music isn't it…and the music is what I love.

Songs were largely sourced from but not exclusive to Hand of Mercy's most recent LP, The Fallout. No complaining from me, it's an epic album, and I was happy to hear a good selection of tracks coming from it such as "Sick for It" and tracks from their former LP "Chump" and "Chaz Reinhold" as well as tracks like "GTFO" from their EP.

Crowd participation was definitely apparent at this gig, a circle in the middle of the room at all times for a select group of moochers and people doing those windmill things with their arms, crazy shit, I didn't want to get hurt, so I kept my distance but thoroughly enjoyed the entertainment.

Hand of Mercy went song to song, without a noticeable glitch in their performance. A first class show from one of Australia's hardcore bands to most definitely keep on eye on. I can see Hand of Mercy supporting some big international acts in the future and this I very much look forward to!