Live Report: Sheer Mag at The Grand Social

Every punk in Dublin gathered last night to see Sheer Mag bring their garage-rock thunder to The Grand Social. Before that, fans were treated to support from London punk's Chubby and The Gang as well as hometown heroes The Number Ones. Chubby delivered a hardcore infused set with raging vocals screamed with a pint in hand. It was only their second gig but they were well-oiled. Up next, The Number Ones played a slew of power-pop anthems. They certainly had their fair share of fans in the crowd as the spectators danced and sang along to their tunes. After the openers perfectly set the tone, it was time for Sheer Mag to take the stage.

Armed with three guitarists and a bassist, Sheer Mag fit on the stage like a small army. Finally, vocalist Tina Halladay marched on up and the crowd erupted in cheers. Then it began, Sheer Mag let loose their pummeling power-chord onslaught. Instantaneously, the group's powerhouse sound got the crowd's head's banging like a 1980's Judas Priest show. Fist-pumping anthems like 'Steel Sharpens Steel' segued right into danceable hits like 'Just Can't Get Enough.' When the group played 'Need To Feel Your Love' we were transported on to a disco dance floor. Halladay kept the energy going through the whole show with her howling vocals affecting every attendee.

Live in concert is the definitive way to experience Sheer Mag. The gut-punching triple-guitar attack, incendiary vocals, and the punk ethos all came together to deliver something completely unique, yet totally familiar. Sheer Mag is surely supplying some of the meatiest rock and roll in the world right now. It would suffice to say the crowd couldn't get enough.