On August 28th, Dưới Lòng Sài Gòn (Beneath Saigon) unfolded under difficult circumstances. A sudden downpour just before doors opened thinned the turnout, but it didn’t dampen the mood. The night pressed on, with each band fighting against the odds to deliver a performance worth remembering.
Grudge Bound: A Cautious Return
The openers, Grudge Bound (formerly Katto Katto), marked their rebranding with a partially renewed lineup and a blend of Slam, BDSM, Deathcore, and Hardcore influences. Their music was as intense as their stage presence, hinting at real potential. However, the set felt a bit underdeveloped, too short for a band in the process of reintroducing themselves. Audiences barely had the chance to grasp their identity before the show moved on. The promise is there, but tighter pacing and more material will be key if Grudge Bound wants to convert curiosity into true engagement.
Now or Later: A Melodic Surprise
A lengthy, somewhat clumsy 30-minute break after the opener threatened to sap the energy in the room. Luckily, Now or Later revived it. Playing “the softest set” of the night, they nonetheless drew one of the warmest receptions. The crowd sang along with nearly every track, showing how melodic music, often overlooked in heavier lineups, can still connect deeply. Their performance was a reminder that variety matters and that audiences in Saigon are ready to embrace different shades of emotion.
Resurged Temptation: Old-School Spirit
Resurged Temptation wasted no time setting up, shifting gears back into heavy territory. Their set was clean, tight, and unapologetically rooted in “traditional” metalcore. While not breaking new ground, their energy and focus were very clear from the get-go. Strong drumming, a commanding vocalist, and well-rehearsed guitar work anchored their set. If anything, the band could take more risks to stand out, but they proved that tradition still resonates.
Artifact: Professionalism Under Pressure
The storm outside peaked as Artifact took the stage, an almost poetic reflection of the intensity they brought inside. Despite missing a bassist and relying on no amps, the Australian metalcore act demonstrated sheer professionalism. The twin vocal attack, switching fluidly between screams and clean lines, kept the set dynamic, while the drummer’s recovery from a mid-song cymbal mishap spoke volumes about their composure. Their sound was polished yet forceful, showing why they’ve earned recognition beyond their home scene.
Dưới Lòng Sài Gòn could have been derailed by bad weather and uneven pacing, but the dedication of the bands ensured it found its rhythm. Each act showcased a different facet of heavy music, creating a varied and memorable night.
Still, one issue lingers: the tendency of audiences in Vietnam to leave shows before the end. This habit undermines not only the atmosphere but also the perception touring bands carry home with them. If the local scene wants to grow and earn lasting respect internationally, staying until the very last note needs to become part of the culture.
Words: Mai Phuong, Hoang
Photos: Tuan Khang
