The Metal Files

Savage Master began their tour with Holy Grail last night here in Austin at Dirty Dog.  They had just come off of a European tour that included playing the Keep It True Festival.

Last night’s show was an early show with Savage Master going on at 930PM and headliners, Holy Grail, going on shortly after 1030PM.  Perfect.

I saw a couple of songs from each of the two openers.  I didn’t hate either of them nor did I really get into them.

Savage Master hit the stage with a revamped lineup due to an abrupt exit by their former drummer.  Brandon, formerly their bassist, is handling drum duties for the tour and they have a fill-in bassist.  They opened the show with 6 songs from their latest album, With Whips and Chains.  I hadn’t heard anything from the album prior to the show beyond the title track.  Everything sounded really good.  The final 4 songs were from their 2014 debut, Mask of the Devil.  Overall they sounded good and it’s always nice to hang out with them.  Good people.  As with their last show in Austin, I let them stay at my place.  I like being able to help my friends when they’re out on the road.

Holy Grail was up next and the crowd got to maybe 50 total…MAYBE.  Other than the first time I saw them at SxSW several years back, I’ve not really been able to get into them.  They just leave me bored.  All competent musicians, just nothing that catches my ear.  I left after about 3 or 4 songs.

It’s funny how divisive this band seems to be, though.  Most of my friends either love them or hate them.  There’s really no middle ground.

Go see Savage Master on this tour.  Buy some stuff.

Savage Master

Holy Grail