Birmingham’s historical link to heavy metal is well documented. Two of the scene’s pioneering bands Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin – who along with Deep Purple make up the ‘unholy trinity’ – have ties to the city. While grindcore legends, Napalm Death also hail from the city. But trying to find somewhere to watch Birmingham’s heaviest groups in one place is often harder than it should be.
The Asylum, Subside and Scruffy Murphy’s are all great for alternative music, of course, while one legendary pub might reopen soon too. But none quite satisfy our constant bloodlust for the heaviest guitars, most thundering drums and ear-piercing vocals, however. That’s where The Devil’s Dog steps in.
Self-described as “Birmingham’s most brutal live-music-venue, bar, and hangout joint,” it will soon open in a derelict car showroom in Digbeth on Adderley Street. It will showcase a selection of national and local talent with a particular emphasis on heavier and more fierce genres.
“Birmingham is the city that gave us heavy metal, and later became the birthplace of industrial metal and grindcore,” said Asad, Director at Devil’s Dog. “We are so proud of our history, and the cultural impact of bands like Judas Priest, Napalm Death and Godflesh, and we want to build on that legacy, and bring it into the 21st Century. Metal is ever-evolving, and we want to broadcast that fact.”
The 300-capacity venue will open its door on February 24 with a free-entry gig from Oceans Ate Alaska and A Titan, A Deity. No doubt this will be a heavy night, with The Devil’s Dog official website, ominously counting down to the “Apocalypse”. While Danish band Siamese and Resolve, from France, will headline on April 16. More bands will be announced soon, a clear emphasis has been placed on inclusivity and celebrating diversity in the genre.
The Devil’s Dog, which is themed around a post-apocalyptic future, will also look to cater as “a late-night bar and hangout space… or for those just popping in for a pint and a bite to eat with the most savage soundtrack possible.” Expect club nights, a menu made up of burgers and wings, and Wychwood beer (the official beer of Bloodstock). It’s due to become Birmingham’s heaviest hangout spot for metal fans.
148 Adderley Street, Deritend, B9 4ED