Gama Bomb + Raised By Owls – Rebellion, Manchester (20th April 2025) – Gig Review

Easter Sunday at Rebellion brought with it a night of mayhem, metal, and even a divine cameo—Jesus himself made an appearance. But while the headliner might’ve promised thrash-fuelled fireworks, it was the support act that truly stole the show.

Raised By Owls took to the stage in full force, bringing their signature blend of chaos, comedy, and crushing heaviness. Their performance is a masterclass in controlled carnage—furious riffs and blast beats tempered with a tongue-in-cheek game show segment that had the crowd both moshing and laughing. While other bands might rely on gimmicks to mask weaker material, Raised By Owls confidently lean into absurdity without sacrificing musical weight. They’re a band that knows exactly who they are—and they’re an absolute riot to watch.

Headliners Gama Bomb had a tough act to follow, and unfortunately, their set didn’t quite rise to the occasion. While technically tight and well-loved by their fans, their performance felt somewhat flat in comparison. The most engaging moments came between the songs, as the band interacted with the crowd, offering glimpses of the personality that perhaps didn’t fully translate into their music on the night. It wasn’t a bad set by any means, but it lacked the spark and spontaneity that make a headline act truly memorable.

In the end, the evening belonged to Raised By Owls—a reminder that sometimes it’s the support act that leaves the biggest impression.