Latest review from Harry Patterson at New Rock Music.

 

Toxic Federation Live From The Greyhound

 

Beeston, Nottinghamshire, 03/07/2010

 

With a combined average age of just 18 years and six months, the five youngsters that comprise Toxic Federation display a maturity and slick professionalism that belies their tender years. So what’s their secret? Is it the songs? Well certainly their material is impressive; satisfyingly heavy but razor-sharp and hook-laden with soaring choruses that would cause the multi-harmony, radio-friendly Def Leppard to raise a collective eyebrow. Maybe it’s the musicianship? There’s no question these kids can play. From the rock-solid, but highly stylish and flamboyant, metronome-like accuracy of Josh Windsor’s drumming, to the deliciously catchy but understated and tasteful manner in which Alex Stroud’s bass locks onto Windsor’s kick drum like a guided missile, they outplay many musicians three times their age.

 

The twin lead work of Jake Graham & George Coleman is a delight to behold. Not content to just double up standard, metal power chords, typical of so many lesser acts, they use contrasting but complimentary chord voicings and each guitarist brings something different to the table, with hooks, riffs and licks swirling in and out that provide a richness, depth and texture to the songs that is deeply satisfying.

 

If all this weren’t enough they are led by Mitchel Emms, a frontman of quite simply astonishing talent & commitment. Think Axl Rose, Sebastian Bach, Dave Lee Roth and Gerard Way dropped into a blender and you’ll get a rough idea. Emms leads his troops through their paces with an astoundingly energetic and physical display of top –drawer showmanship. Leaping, lurching, crouching, jumping he works the audience tirelessly, like a psycho Dave Lee Roth on speed. Of course it would count for nought if there wasn’t a voice to back up the flash but, again, Toxic Federation hit the spot perfectly. From the screams and roars beloved of the post-Nu Metal generation, to the faux operatic wailings of the 80s Hair metal brigade, Emms is deeply impressive with a versatile, powerful and eminently listenable voice. Pitch perfect with an understanding of how to use dynamics to lend light and shade to his delivery.

 

Arriving in their own personalised and liveried tour bus with a highly expensive and sparkly backline and, as we saw later, a full-on compliment of pyro and FX, they clearly have serious cash behind them. Maybe rich parents happy to indulge their little darling’s dreams of playing rock stars? Possibly, but an unfair conclusion when these kids deliver the goods in such a convincing manner. From set opener ‘Behind The Mask’ they give everything they’ve got and play as if we are at Wembley Arena, not a provincial boozer in a midlands suburb. It’s hard not to warm to their obvious sincerity and passion for what they do. Despite the studied 80s-style glam-sleaze image (they look great as well, by the way. Makes you sick, right?) there is no corresponding arrogance, merely a genuine desire to entertain and win over the punters.

 

The backbone of the set is their own songs and quite right too when they’re as polished and of such quality as those we heard tonight. ‘Neon Dream’ and ‘Last Words’ hit like a wrecking ball. But a very polished wrecking ball with a melodic sensibility that had this cynical old hack grinning like teen-ager on a promise. Another highlight was ‘Dark’ a beautifully crafted slice of tuneful hard rock all anchored firmly in place by a rhythm section that purred flawlessly all night. The overall effect, one of skilfully controlled fury. Iron Maiden’s ‘The Trooper’ got a note-perfect run through although I experienced a moment of unease when that familiar, galloping riff kicked in; surely an 18 year old kid couldn’t cope with Bruce Dickinson’s air-raid siren vocal acrobatics? I should have known better by that point. Of course he could. And did. Admirably. Wheeling out that hoary old chestnut, ‘Highway To Hell’ the cheeky sods’ harmonised on the chorus giving an out and out rocker a classy little polish with backing vocals a pitch-perfect third above the melody line. To complete the compliment of covers, Metallica’s ‘Nothing Else Matters’ and ‘Enter Sandman’ were dispatched with clinical accuracy and a high degree of flair.

 

Following a drum solo by Windsor, (yes, I know; but it was thoroughly enjoyable, honestly!) the band launched into the home straight with the 1-2-3 attack of ‘Of Reason’, ‘The Dreamer’ and ‘Patriot’s Gamble’ and it was game over. Toxic Federation 1, Rest of the Competition 0.

 

Criticisms? Hard to come by, to be fair. Maybe the pacing of the set could do with some adjustment and Stroud & Coleman could perhaps project more and introduce a little more movement and mobility into their respective performances but given the astonishing performance of Emms and Windsor, the first skin-basher I’ve seen in twenty years that’s actually a pleasure to watch as well as listen to, these are minor, possibly churlish, quibbles.

 

So there you have it. The most exciting young act I’ve seen since ‘Heaven’s Basement’. They’ve got the lot. If there is any justice in this miserable little world these kids should be super nova within five years. Catch ‘em quick before it costs you thirty notes at the N.E.C.

 

Harry Paterson.

 

Latest review from Meriel Flavell at Ryans Gig Guide

 

Toxic Federation

 

If I were to say to you “bleach blond straightened hair and lycra” you would be forgiven for thinking I was referring to underage drinkers on any given night on Broad Street, but much scarier than that, I am talking about Toxic Federation. WooooHoooo to the return of Classic (Cock) Rock! Music reviewers are supposed to be knowledgeable with exquisite taste in their chosen genre. Sod that, I remember the good old days of Foxy’s on a Wednesday, Junction 10 on a Friday, and all day Saturday (drinking) sessions at The Giffard two decades ago with great fondness, few regrets, and many Diamond White fuelled memories; I remain true to my roots. I was delighted to get the opportunity to review a band with energy, tingle-factor and a sound a million miles away from the usual tripe you hear on the radio. Think Skid Row and a little heavier and you will get there soon enough.

 

Toxic Federation are a five piece from Derby who are touring not only locally, or even nationally, but internationally (well, Turkey anyway). You can see their lush locks on the cover of this issue, download their latest single, Daybreak or view their stage exploits on their websitewww.toxicfederation.com

 

Daybreak has an excellent opening of news audio samples and launches into their characteristic blend of real rock. It is clear from their video that their stage show is hyped with energy and the kind of bonce swinging that is so rarely seen in performances of the current musical climate. Mitchel Emms, cool name for a vocalist if there ever was, gives his all to every word he sings, and when there’s a vocal break, he leaps about off the speaker with a stream of hair flashing around him. The guitars of Jake Graham and George Coleman add the big rock sound so many of us crave and the bass of the yummy Alex Stroud completes the strings to perfection. I am such a sucker for a drummer and Jr Windsor does not fail to deliver with beat and zest to lead the rhythm and make the girls swoon (well, I did anyhow).

 

Clips of As One and On Air can also be viewed on their site, but readers of RGG like it live, do they not? Do not fear. This stadium worthy band are playing at a venue near you for your aural pleasure.

 

Gigs in June include dates in Walsall, Hereford, Derby and Birmingham, and a highlight of the tour in Wolverhampton on 17thJune when they are supporting Ratt and Anvil at the Wulfrun Hall (this gig is sure to have my ex-husband digging out his spandex trousers – don’t say I didn’t warn you). Full listings can be found on their website or myspace, along with previously mentioned music snippets and videos to whet your appetite, amongst other things.

 

Are you ready for this? Have you missed the style of rock from which you used to listen to on vinyl with your idol staring down at you from your bedroom walls, held up with blue-tac? Cancel that finance meeting, take a day off your boring day job, book your tickets, pinch your girlfriend’s eyeliner, get some crimpers off eBay and you’re ready to Rock and Roll like you were born to do. Oh yeah baby, get your rocks off to Toxic Federation!

 

©Meriel Flavell 2010

 

 

 

 

 

Quote from Al Draper

 

"Rip snorting, Maiden-esque retro-rock featuring one of the best young guitarists in the country: Jake Graham. His distinctive, passion-infused and silky wah-wah sound combined with frontman Mitch Emms' terrific rock vocals makes for phenomenal synergy. Together this ultra-talented band is very much THE upcoming outfit from the region."....Al Draper

 

Latest Review from www.allmetalresource.com

 

The English classic metal band Toxic Federation is just another new entry into the revitalized classic genre. However, unlike their Swedish and more recently, American counterparts, Toxic Federation isn’t about being completely retro, instead they infuse the classic sound with modern pop-metal appeal which leaves them with an edgy, but definite mainstream sound that is certain to provide crossover appeal if they are ever to break out. If you are into the Swedish classic metal revitalization combined with Bullet For My Valentine and take a ganter at these boys from Nottingham

 

Toxic Federation Review from Midlands Rocks

 

There were some changes to tonight’s support acts which I was totally unaware of until I got to the venue. I was actually quite pleased to hear that the opening band was to be Toxic Federation. I’ve checked out some of the band’s songs and video’s recently and have been very keen to catch them live at some point and tonight I got my chance. The band is a very young Midlands based band, who are gigging everywhere, they are a glam / sleaze influenced band but perhaps with a heavier edge. If you like bands like Crashdiet & Crazy Lixx, the band should appeal to you. I have to say I was really impressed with their performance and the quality of their musicianship! Whilst some of the onstage antics may have been a little OTT for some I found it hugely entertaining - a band full of energy and not worried about throwing themselves full force into their performance. Lead singer Mitchell Emms, is particularly wild, jumping all over the place and even running offstage into the crowd! A very enthusiastic frontman who may come across as a little unhinged with some of his antics, but was obviously enjoying every last minute of his time on stage. I was impressed with the tightness of the rhythm section courtesy of JR Windsor (Drums) & Alex Stroud (Bass), which obviously gave the band that big heavy groove! The guitarists Jake Graham & George Coleman seem to have very different styles of playing, which brings a unique sound to the band which will make them stand out from their peers. They both shared lead guitar duties over the course of the set and showed what they could do with vigour! Jake was very prominent for playing a lot of Maiden-style fretwork. I’m not usually one for guitar hero widdling sessions but I love all those hugely melodic Maiden guitar riffs and solos. So I really took to the songs which Jake let rip on. They have a great sound for live performances, they have a great rhythm and energy to grab your attention, whilst they do come across quite heavy the melodies do still soar on through! There were a couple of songs that were perhaps a little too bland or only had one moment of a stand out guitar work but to be honest I was impressed by the vast majority of the songs the band chose to perform. I have to say I really like “As One”, the band even had a heart attack inducing pyro explosion during the performance of this one! You can’t fault the band for their energy and enthusiasium and obvious love of performing live. I heavily recommend you go and check these guys out when they are in your neck of the woods, you won’t regret it and remember to take your dancing shoes! www.myspace.com/toxicfederation

 

The Answer/General Fiasco/Toxic Federation - Corporation, Sheffield, Monday 29th November, 2009

 

Twas the second night gig in a row at the old 'Corp as was previously here on the 28th for Vain in the little room. Tonight though, it's to the left and into the big live room for a high volume party from some of Irish's finest - and no I ain’t talkin' about malt whiskey either or is that whisky - I never did get my head around that. Anyways, the place had started to get nicely filled already for the nights openers who go by the name Toxic Federation, a five piece from the Nottingham and Derby parts of the UK - just down the road from us to be exact about it. They look the part and they play the part and can't really be more than their mid 20's - good looking guys (without me sounding gay - hahaha) who remind me of the good ole days when killer hair and plenty of it was the complete norm in rock. They are as tight as tight and their blend of rock and metal is kinda early to mid 80's meets the early 90's kinda sound - imagine Iron Maiden meets Skin and Little Angels with a voice and dynamic providince to match. Their 30 minute set goes down amazing, with their frontman, even swinging around from the top of the front stage ceiling - if that makes any sense. 8/10

 

Diamond Head, Toxic Federation & Suicide Tuesday @ The RockHouse – Derby - (26.8.09)

 

“Next up were Toxic Federation, when I first saw these guys, they had no front man to speak of, and although fantastic musicians and obviously oozing talent, I did feel that there was an element missing. A year down the line, much to my surprise they have an enigmatic front man; Mitchel Emms strutting his stuff and taking the band to a whole new level. His appearance and stage presence are instantly striking, reminding me of a cross between Adam Ant and Dave Lee Roth, a strong combination of hard hitting vocals and interesting stage antics gripped the audience, ensuring that all eyes were firmly fixed on Toxic Federation.” Alice Durose (Wildchild Media)

 

Review from Surface Unsigned Round 3 2009

 

"The second band of the night was Nottingham based five-piece Toxic Federation. They’re back under the Surface banner for the seventh time and this time with an impressive new set worth of material. This is a band growing from strength to strength that you definitely do not want to miss. Already completing a massive tour supporting the well known band UFO, this is a band that are no strangers to the industry. They put on a great show tonight including roof swinging and an impressive drum solo at the Asylum holding their own against some stiff competition. What a shame they didn’t make it to the judge. These guys will definitely go far."

 

Review by Erewash sound - The Venue, Derby, Oct 2008 (Supporting Hot Leg)

 

After me getting lost in Derby I finally found the venue, (Only because i heard the band playing from outside). So to the band, these are four very talented young rockers supporting Justin Hawkins (Former front man of The Darkness) on the 2nd date of his UK Tour with his new band "Hot Leg".

 

They write and produce all their own material and they did "rock the house". I was aware of their music playing it on my rock show Saturday's on erewashsound.co.uk but could they cut it live? Within their music you can hear their influences including Led Zeppelin, Wishbone Ash, Iron Maiden and Metallica, but they do have their own sound which i thought was good.

 

Not only did Toxic Federation put on a blinding 30 mins set, but picked up a whole load of new fans and the respect of Hot Leg Justin Hawkins new band who they supported, but i missed them because of the time, o well mayeb next time Justin! The tracks were really good, Behind The Mask, Patriots Gamble and the drum solo stood out. Last Words, Neon Dream and Machine Men all worthy of any established rock band with some nice rhymes. The only one bit of advice that I would give to them is to get writing some more songs because it won't be long before they are signed to a "big" record company!

 

Review from Surface Unsigned Round 4

 

"Next up were Nottingham’s Toxic Federation. A grand atmospheric noise of Classic-Rock, it’s a tight sound that is heavily influenced by the 70’s and 80’s yet the band bring in enough fresh ideas to make it very much their own. They have a sharp distinctive edge which really works for them. Interesting thought-out lyrics show a wealth of substance past their loud and exciting heavy rock sound and their long hair and vests only add to the image. They’ve got some excellent material, progressive yet never overly indulgent, it’s well-written and expertly put together to ensure maximum impact – complete with effective use of tempo changes, driving riffs and punchy beats it gives their music a real kick of energy. It’s an exciting sound that grabs and holds your attention. On top of this JR pulled off some exceptional percussion (particularly during the percussion interlude!) - It really is quite something to see such a young musician with such extraordinary talent. They deservedly got a strong response from the crowd, the Rainbow Warehouse proved the perfect venue for their stadium worthy sound."

 

 

 

Review from Surface Unsigned Round 3

 

"Last to take to the stage was Nottingham’s Toxic Federation. Arriving with an army of fans – it didn’t take long for everyone else present to see why they have amassed such a following. They’ve got a stadium worthy Classic-Rock sound that bursts with energy and originality and perform with a charisma and level of showmanship that’s rarely found on an unsigned stage. Superb layered guitars with fast winding solos and catchy riffs – they are clearly very talented individual musicians and they brought it together flawlessly. Added to that some sharp, heavy beats and a powerful vocal combination and you’ve got a substantial, well-thought out sound that proved an excellent finish to a first-class evening of unsigned Rock."

 

 

 

Review from Surface Unsigned Round 2

 

"Despite the name suggesting otherwise, this band are not the thrash metal, mask wearers you might expect. Yes they are fans of the heavier side of the rock and roll coin, and your mother probably won't be a fan, but Toxic Federation are far more friendly to the ear drum than might have been thought. Their sound errs far more towards the more American rock genre and lead singer Alex does have a touch of the Axl Rose quality to his voice further cementing this. Despite not offering the most exciting stage performance of the evening, which is surprising as the band have been together for over three years, this is more than made up for by their non-stop sound. With riffs that would make anyone do a mean air guitar impression, along with drums which only serve to build pace and whip the crowd's excitement, Toxic Federation are clearly all very skilled in what they do. As the final act, it was their job to bring the day to a close in an exciting and memorable fashion, and in this mission they did not fail. A well accomplished band who bring style, and hair, to their genre. Well done!"

 

 

 

Review from Surface Unsigned Round 1

 

"The task of bringing an excellent night of unsigned Rock to a close was left to four-piece Toxic Federation. Their sound is Classic-Rock; and all the usual hallmarks are there – superb, complex guitar solos, heavy, energetic riffs and thundering percussion – yet given a sharp contemporary twist, showing a real song-writing ability and the rare ability to drag a dated genre up-to-date. The band delivered an intense, atmospheric performance on the night, and the band quickly established themselves as an audience favorite, leaving few in any doubt as to their ability and potential."

 

 

 

Read more: http://www.myspace.com/toxicfederation#ixzz0wETWmHeo