Live report: New Secret Weapon at the Button Factory

Almost seven years ago, New Secret Weapon established themselves as one of the most captivatingly original new forces in Irish music, with the release of their acclaimed debut album. The self-titled project defied the limitations of genre with a unique fusion of alternative rock, prog and jazz.

The good news is that – after a break away from the spotlight! – the trio returned to the live fray on February 1st with their first ever live-streamed gig. And what a way of saying hello again!

New Secret Weapon's reintroduction was a trademark headbanger of a gig that left viewers craving more of their unorthodox sound – and excited for what's to come. With face-melting riffs (copyright Edwin McFee!), powerful playing and a core of rock 'n' roll energy, New Secret Weapon's songs are made to be heard live. But you still have to deliver, when you're in the eye of the storm.

David Griffin, guitarist and lead vocalist, was at his best on the night, delivering the band's older gems alongside current tracks with a clear voice and all the charisma of a frontman at his peak.

The tempo of the set was pulsating throughout the 30-minute gig, with Griffin, Mark O'Connor on bass and Trevor Keogh on drums barely stopping or slowing down for a break for a single second.

Having supported Patti Smith at Kilmainham, and worked with legendary producer Steve Albini, the group have matured and found new ways to express themselves lyrically, while maintaining their signature raw energy. Their new tracks include 'Gravity', 'If You Can't Take It Back', 'Cats Got Another Fiddle' and 'Questions'; each with its own signature set of lyrical quirks.

The second half of the riotous set featured tracks from their 2014 debut, with NSW jamming through 'Headmelt Radar', 'Wild One' and 'I Draw Fire Watch' with their potent pace changes. Their sonically expansive music melds diverse strands into into an intricate, precise and yet merciless whole. Their older material sounds better than ever, but it's their new tracks that shine brightest – a sure sign that this return will pay rich creative dividends.

We can't wait for the next album...

Re-watch New Secret Weapon's Button Factory performance on the Hot Press YouTube channel below:

Read the recent Hot Press interview with New Secret Weapon on their long-awaited return here.

Don't miss your chance to revisit the performances of Lethal Dialect, Blackbird & Crow, Vernon Jane, New Valley Wolves and THUMPER.

This project has been part-funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht Sport and Media from the Live Performance Support Scheme.