MAMMAL - Live @ The Factory
Pictured: Ezekiel Ox - MAMMAL
Photo by: Angie New
Written by: Matt New - Sense Music Media | Wednesday 28 September 2022
It has been a long time since MAMMAL has graced Sydney's shores, after recently re-forming back in 2017. The Factory Theatre, which hosted them for the reunion tour, would again fittingly be the venue for their first Sydney show post Covid.
Pictured: MAMMAL frontman Ezekiel Ox bringing his stage energy into the crowd
Photo by: Angie New
Opening for MAMMAL was Melbourne alt-indie duo KING OF THE NORTH, who immediately engaged their audience with a wide range of dense sonic hooks. Seemingly unassuming as a guitarist and drummer combo, they soon showed that sometimes that's all you require to create some catchy groove driven rock and roll. KING OF THE NORTH have a huge sound for a two piece, weaving across many genres that define their sound. A very enjoyable live band to experience.
Pictured: Andrew Higgs + Tom “Jonesy” Jones - KING OF THE NORTH
Photo by: Angie New
The moment finally arrived for MAMMAL to hit the stage, and they did not waste any time in intensifying the energy in the room from zero to one hundred! They have long been regarded as one of Australia's most unique and exciting rock bands, and after an extensive hiatus, they proved they have not lost any of their punch.
Pictured: Zane Rosanoski, Pete Williamson + Kade Turner - MAMMAL
Photo by: Angie New
The night surprisingly consisted of not one, but two 45 minute sets. The songs selected spanned from their origins as a band, through to new material they are currently in the process of recording. We were also introduced to new bassist Kade Turner (ex- Branch Arterial) who received a warm welcome into the MAMMAL family. His pure talent on the instrument is a sight to behold, as he slaps and grooves his way through every song with a big smile running ear to ear.
Pictured: Zane Rosanoski, Ezekiel Ox + Kade Turner - MAMMAL
Photo by: Angie New
Frontman Ezekiel Ox is a born showman and owns every stage he sets foot on. It's hard to keep your eyes off him as he dances and moves with bravado and intense emotional conviction. If you blink, you may no longer see him on the stage, rather singing on top of a barrel near the sound desk, or in the middle of the mosh pit amongst his loyal fans. Zeke's obvious devotion to music and performance shines through consistently with every show, as he feeds off the energy of the crowd. Guitarist Pete Williamson's monster guitar tones cut through the mix as he showcases a wide range of technical ability he has become well known for. Rounding out the quartet is drummer Zane Rosanoski, who provides an ultra-tight back beat to the ensemble that bleeds raw power and maximum energy.
Pictured: Zane Rosanoski + Ezekiel Ox - MAMMAL
Photo by: Angie New
Highlight tracks from the set included classic tracks like ‘Smash The Pinata’, ‘Nagasaki in Flames’ and ‘Think’ mixed with new bangers like ‘The War’, ‘Doubt’ and ‘Crime Scene’ and a sneaky RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE cover of ‘Killing in The Name’. Special mention must also go to all of the artistically extravagant headpieces which frontman Ox graced the stage with throughout the night.
Pictured: MAMMAL frontman Ezekiel Ox pumping up The Factory crowd
Photo by: Angie New
MAMMAL are never a band to disappoint or leave you unsatisfied. The audience interaction by way of Ox literally bringing the music to you makes you feel like you are part of the band.
Pictured: Ezekiel Ox + Zane Rosanoski - MAMMAL
Photo by: Angie New
They embody a professionalism and attitude parallel to some of the best acts Australia has ever produced. For now we wait patiently for the new album, which most definitely means more opportunities in the near future to experience this memorable band live.
All photos by: Angie New - Angie New Photography
Pictured: Pete Williamson, Ezekiel Ox, Kade Turner + Zane Rosanoski
Photo by: Michelle Grace Hunder