The Exeter Phoenix was the epicenter of a musical storm on the 5th of February, as Belgium’s RAMKOT and South West England’s very own MOTHER VULTURE co-headlined a night of pure rock revelry, supported by the ever-energetic MORIATY.

MORIATY opened the night with their signature blend of bluesy riffs and heavy beats. As always, their set was dripping with swagger and the confident strut of seasoned rock 'n' rollers. Jordan West, donning a Black Sabbath T-shirt in a nod to the legendary band’s upcoming final show, led the charge with gritty vocals and fiery guitar work. Their banter between songs, akin to a squabbling couple, had the crowd in stitches, with the audience joining in on the jibes. Highlights included a spirited cover of The White Stripes’ "The Hardest Button to Button" and their own track "Jealous MF," which saw Jordan sporting a paper crown made by his daughter—though it briefly caused a guitar malfunction which was swiftly resolved by Jordan’s expertise in cable management! Their set was peppered with those fun, unpredictable moments that make live music so exhilarating.

Next up was RAMKOT, the Belgian trio whose fat riffs and dynamic stage presence had the room buzzing. Their performance was a rollercoaster of slow, sludgy tracks interspersed with explosive rock 'n' roll numbers, reminiscent of a young Jimmy Page’s hunger and talent. The bassist laid down melodic lines that intertwined perfectly with the pounding drums, while the heavy breakdowns transported the audience to a dark, doom-laden realm, evoking the sound of Them Crooked Vultures. The crowd, much like their preferred real ale, appreciated the richness and depth of their performance.

Finally, it was time for MOTHER VULTURE to take the stage, and they did so with a fanfare that set the tone for the evening’s climax. Having evolved from their chaotic, raucous beginnings, the band delivered a slick, polished show that still retained the raw energy that their fans adore. Their recent track "Slow Down" showcased a heavier sound than their earlier material, hinting at a new direction for the band. Drummer Matthew West revealed that the track’s heaviness wasn’t a deliberate departure but rather a happy accident. The audience was captivated by the powerful performance, leaving the venue with smiles that could only come from witnessing a band at the top of their game.

As they gear up to hit the road again in April, supporting BOKASSA, MOTHER VULTURE are a force to be reckoned with. Catch them in Dover, Bournemouth, Swansea, Manchester, Glasgow, Sheffield, Nottingham, and London, you don’t want to miss it.

Words Steve Muscutt

Pics © Julian Baird