PureVolume

Alternative Ulster Magazine - Live Review Issue 29 SEP/OCT 06 - By Jonny Tiernan

Spectator attack tonights opening slot earnestly. The Derry trio take the heavy shred of Helmet and mash it with the passion and tone of an early Fugazi pacey, energetic and quickfire. At times a more melodic hardcore edge a la Hot Water Music seeps through too. Some might call it retro, but it works perfectly and strikes a chord that a few others are playing right now. This might be their first gig but youd never guess it. Spectator are comfortable, competent and slick on stage, bouncing off each other like the bunch of old pros they are. Promising stuff and ones to keep your eye on.

4 out of 5

Alternative Ulster Magazine E.P Review - Oct/Nov 06

Here's a refreshingly old school guitar band who play aggressive yet melodic hardcore la Helmet or Wool. The production on this short EP is strong and clear throughout, but the abrasive edges remain intact, and there is a balance between heavy riffage, shouting and strong choruses.

Hot Press E.P Review - 18 Oct 2006 - By Jackie Hayden

Newly arrived from Derry is the somewhat shouty and point Spectator. The head-shaking 'This Time Is Everything' is an energetic as Fugazi but gets to the point without messing about. 'Best of Me' is a little more adventurous, showing how thought can bring subtlety to the metal-punk genre. On 'Take Blame Take Anything' they thrash it up, with addictive chugging guitar and thundering drums. Spectator are nothing more than the sum of obvious influences, but this is a promising effort from a band formed in April.