I think Ice Nine Kills are my favourite new band of the decade. I was drawn to them at Download 2023, when I was forced from my tent because it was overheating so I went to the arena, and was sat drinking a pint at the back of the arena watching the main stage. I loved them; I hope my description doesn't offend anyone: they reminded me of a darker, heavier Panic at the Disco, with the theatrics of My Chemical Romance and a love of the horror genre.
I certainly wasn't disappointed, finally seeing them and being able to sing along as well. What I love is the theatre element, but where bigger bands have huge impressive sets, INK manages to pull off the same effect with just props and makeup. The music is catchy but also goes hard, and I love the "meta" narrative of this being an unhinged lead singer on a killing spree (with lead singer Spencer Charnas being led on stage at the beginning by two police officers).
