In a world spiraling into chaos, with democracies teetering and civility on life support, where poverty, war, and environmental doom loom large, there's a beacon of defiant stability. Enter Wattie and The Exploited, ready to unleash their punk rock fury in an 80-minute blitz that'll give a resounding middle finger to all that's gone awry. Brace yourself for a show that'll leave your senses happily obliterated!
The Bataclan trembled under the weight of punk history as The Exploited took the stage. With Wattie Buchan at the helm, wisecracking and charismatic as ever, the crowd knew they were in for a wild ride. Wattie's brother Wullie unleashed a relentless barrage on the drums, driving the beats like a man possessed. Meanwhile, the lanky, dreadlocked frame of bassist Irish Rob throbbed with every thundering note, grounding the sonic assault.The newest member, guitarist Steve Campbell, brought a fresh energy, tearing through chords with a ferocity that seamlessly melded with the classic Exploited sound. From the opening chords of "Let's Start A War (Said Maggie One Day)," it was clear this was a night of unbridled intensity.
The Exploited's music may not be a nuanced tapestry, but as a cathartic release for pent-up anger and frustrations, it was the perfect prescription. With no new record in two decades, the setlist was a time capsule of punk rebellion. "Cop Cars," "I Believe In Anarchy," "Punks Not Dead," and "Sex And Violence" from the seminal "Punks Not Dead" record; "Beat The Bastards" and "Fight Back" from the album of the same name; "Porno Slut," "Fuck The System," and their defiant cover of The Vibrators' "Troops Of Tomorrow" - each song an anthem celebrating anarchy and the punk ethos.
As Sex And Violence tore through the venue, even the walls seemed to pulsate with the raw power of punk. The crowd, a mix of seasoned punk veterans and spirited youth, reveled in the chaos, several children even fearlessly stage diving into the maelstrom.
In a climactic crescendo, members of the audience surged onstage, joining the band in a riotous dance of liberation. Wattie, Wullie, Irish Rob, and Steve found themselves surrounded by a sea of ecstatic fans, a testament to the enduring connection The Exploited has with their audience.
As the final chords echoed through the Bataclan, and with sweat-soaked smiles, they bid their adieu. It was a night of unapologetic punk rock, a celebration of a genre that refuses to be tamed. And in the end, as the echoes of rebellion lingered in the air, one couldn't help but think, "Punks Still Not Dead."
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