It is common knowledge that Belfast gigs can sometimes be a bit of a mixed bag in terms of quality, but when a band like Double Handsome Dragons hit the stage with the ferocity and kind of wide eyed passion usually reserved for a band with nothing to lose, it is clear that you have stumbled into a room where something very special is going down. Double Handsome Dragons took to the stage and did the only thing that they know, which is to shout loudly directly in the audiences faces. This in many ways could be considered bad form, but tonight they get their point across perfectly. Sounding like a mix of Reuben, Refused, and local gods-of-the-hour And So I Watch You From Afar, their style of half-instrumental rock was more akin to getting repeatedly punched in the ribs, but in the best way possible. The guitarist, with his eyes wide and rock stance intact, managed to furiously attack his guitar while not missing a beat, which must be hard considered the bands reliance on backing tracks. There was a sense of revelation in the crowd at this point. The time where you realise that this is not only another random gig that bands are obliged to take part in, if only in order to spread their name (see, this band are from England), but it's clear for all to see that Double Handsome Dragons are on par, if not well over, of any band that Northern Ireland has to offer. This in itself it worrying, but tonight the only thought entering my head was one of constant surprise. While the vocals are sporadic and not quite sing-able, they are completely of a random nature, coming at the most unexpected times. In this sense they remind of Sikth, but are in no way as self indulgent. All in all, by the time this band had finished their set, it was obvious by both the look on peoples faces, and the ringing in my ears, that this band have something that many bands should hope to achieve in their lifetime, which is a focus on passion, unrelenting attitude, and tight playing that ensure that Double Handsome Dragons will be back. Take note, or miss out.