The Lost Prophets took the stage at Warped 2012 and finally there was men amongst the boys. This Welsh rock band took control of the split stage like the pro's they are. They have been around for over a decade and bring with them the experience and calm that allot of these new cats just don't have.
Lead singer Ian Watkins didn't even announce the band name until nearly the end of the set. Something I found odd, did he think everyone knew who they were? I have been a fan since i first hear "Rooftops" from the 2005 album "Liberation Transmission'. I had never seen them live until this Warped tour, I can now cross them off my bucket list.
The problem with 'hard rock' or metal bands is that their grit is lost in the daylight. At 12 noon a band is much less menacing than at 9pm A problem with 'fests' in general, I mean everyone needs a slot but Lost Prophets are a night band. They followed Hawaii boys The Green and it was the most awkward transition I have seen in awhile. Even the crowd looked a little confused.
But Lost Prophets is exactly that Warped needed it was the kick in the ass band that finally took it from a Jack Johnson wake and bake to a bad ass rock show. For all the power the band has they weren't able to let it fly- it could have been more intense. Not sure if it was the time of day or the weak crowd playing hacky sack in front of them but they did not appear comfortable and they were not owning the stage.
They made me very happy though by not only performing 'Rooftops" but others I loved such as 'Burn Burn' and 'To Hell We Ride'. What was the deal? Where was the passion that earned them numerous Kerrang awards and NME accolades?
I wont blame Warped I will question the set time but more than anything- I'm damn glad I got to see them and hope they swing this way solo soon.