Even before the gig starts, the energy emanating from . . . And you will know us by the trail of dead is unmistakable. Jason Reece stands on stage, jumping up and down on the spot - expending nervous energy - waiting for the nod to begin.
Opening with Mistakes and Regrets, there's little evidence that this is a band that have spent the last three months holed up in a studio. Dressed in regulation black T-shirts, now faded to grey, it's hard to imagine the trail of dead's church-choir past.
Equally it's impossible to equate the band with their scary reputation. They appear to be genuinely happy to be in Belfast and it's infectious. Tonight is the only club gig on the tour and feels special for it. Predictably the capacity crowd in the Empire quickly divide themselves into those with some regard for personal safety and those - in the mosh-pit - with none.
The band introduces a couple of new songs from their recent recording sessions. Despite warning that they're still learning to play them, the new material comes across even better than the familiar tunes. Relative Ways - dedicated to kindred spirits At The Drive In - disguises an infectious melody and chorus in a sonic assault and bodes well for the future.
Sticking mainly to tracks from the Madonna album, the trail of dead's blend of blistering punk guitar and driving drumming conspires to keep an edge to the performance. The band exude intense power and energy, yet always appear like they're holding a little something in reserve.
On the occasions when they do let go, it's inspiring and mesmerising, just like all great gigs should be. The night didn't so much end as break down. The fact that the stage trashing antics didn't appear OTT is a credit to the energy built up over the gig. A reaffirming night.