Photo taken by me

Having the person who’s music dragged you through hell and back and back some more, to have them sing the words that went right into your heart and made everything wrong alright again is something that is truly overwhelming. It leaves you with a smile carved onto your stained heart.

After waiting close to 5 years to see Cold Cave, tonight I finally did. Right at the front leaning on a speaker in a venue that instantly became the best place I had ever seen a band or singer.

The way in which Wes thrashes the mic stand about in a fit of fury and undeniable passion, it immediately becomes infectious. I didn’t sing to the songs, instead my body became the most free it has been in a long time. I felt it was just me and the band. Maybe tonight was all in my head. It’s going to be in my heart for the rest of my life.

Hearing songs like Hello Rats (my most personal favorite) live changes everything. It adds something to your life that not much else can. Maybe this is because I love music in such a deep and passionate way. It says the things that I simply cannot say.

What I’ve loved about Cold Cave for so long is Wesley’s way with words. From American Nightmare to Cold Cave, his words have always been a safety net for me. And for someone who isn’t a fan of the skin they are in, tonight I didn’t feel so ugly.

I’m writing this on the tube home trying to take in everything I witnessed and felt tonight. The love Wes and Amy have for each other is so beautiful to see. As he aggressively thrashes the mic stand, he becomes so calm stood next to her. We all have that one person who does that to us, and when you have it-it is for the rest of your life.

The dark stage, the dingy room; the whole atmosphere was romantic and ethereal. I closed my eyes and moved my body. I closed my eyes and I felt okay in my body.

Wes frequently walked to the edge of the stage, a drop of his sweat fell on my head. My girlfriend has told me to shower when I get home.

Tonight changed and stirred something inside. I’m aware this isn’t a typical review of a show, but typical is something we must shy away from. It was clear that Amy and Wes were humbled by the show. It was a beautiful evening.

The projector behind them said “There is hope.” Words can mean more than actions, Cold Cave proved that tonight