★★★★

HEAVY metal, hard rock and grunge are just a few of the labels often used to describe this American outfit.

There is more to this band than such clichés, however, and Red Fang demonstrated an ability to draw from many influences from glam rock and punk to psychedelia as they kicked off their latest tour in Brighton this week.

And while the sound was loud and driven, it was also more nuanced at times and avoided the peaks and troughs of some raucous and less focused bands.

Central to the sound was John Sherman on drums, while lead guitarist David Sullivan was the gel that kept it all together. Aaron Beam’s rounded voice was an antidote to Bryan Giles’ guttural vocals with the two contrasting styles complementing each other and adding variety. Both singers were outstanding.

The boys may well know how to rip it up but they kept it tight and there was sufficient variety to hold the attention and prevent overload. Also on the bill were fellow metallists Torche and God Damn who added value and were both an advert for any aspiring support band.

Worth a look.