Gig review: The Motherz at The Underworld, Camden

Celebrity Interviews

Published on Monday, 27 October 2025 11:10

Last Updated on 29 October 2025

Monica Costa

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London’s live rock scene just got a powerful new pulse – and its name is The Motherz. Formed in the summer of 2024, this heavy metal band is still fresh on the circuit, yet they already boast studio time at the legendary Abbey Road Studios – a bold statement of intent for a group clearly aiming high. I caught their debut at The Underworld Camden last night  26 October 2025, and what a night it was: fierce, loud, and gloriously unapologetic.
From the moment they took the stage, The Motherz unleashed a wall of sound that felt like a nod to the golden age of metal while pushing hard into modern territory. The chemistry was instant. Miguel Montalban, on guitar and vocals, delivered blistering riffs and face-melting solos with his signature precision – a true virtuoso I’ve previously interviewed during his tour with his other powerhouse project, The Southern Vultures. His playing anchored the night, balancing fire and finesse in a way that few guitarists can achieve.

What struck me most was the band’s tight cohesion and sheer joy in performing together. The rhythm section thundered with unrelenting force, and the entire set pulsed with energy that made the floorboards of Camden’s iconic venue vibrate. The crowd was with them from the first chord, erupting into synchronised headbanging during the standout moments – especially the epic mid-set anthem that had everyone chanting like a metal choir.

Their sound blends the grit and attitude of old-school heavy metal with a modern, melodic edge. There’s rawness, yes, but also surprising sophistication — you can hear their respect for classic influences while they carve their own identity. The Motherz aren’t trying to imitate; they’re here to evolve rock itself.

It’s not often you feel that unmistakable spark of witnessing something at the beginning of greatness, but that’s exactly what this gig felt like. Their debut album already hints at serious potential, but live, the songs explode with a new dimension of energy and emotion.
Miguel’s stage presence remains magnetic – confident but never arrogant, deeply connected to both his instrument and his audience. It’s no surprise, given his success with The Southern Vultures, a band that’s been making waves across Europe with its soulful blend of blues and rock.

For those unfamiliar, The Southern Vultures are a testament to rock excellence: blues-driven, emotionally charged, and internationally acclaimed. Founded by Montalban – the Chilean-born guitar prodigy, singer, and songwriter – alongside drummer Florin Constantin and bassist Bruno Pint, the trio has become a staple of the UK and European blues-rock scene. Their sound draws from the roots of rock and roll, with soaring vocals, virtuosic guitar work, and thunderous rhythm. The band’s 2023 double album Live in Birmingham showcases Montalban’s electrifying talent and the trio’s undeniable chemistry.

Having collaborated with industry giants such as Kevin Metcalfe (Queen, David Bowie, The White Stripes) and Mike Hedges, Montalban brings a world-class sensibility to every project he touches – and The Motherz is no exception. With their debut, he seems determined to channel the spirit of heavy metal through his own artistic lens, uniting impeccable musicianship with raw emotion.

The Verdict

The Motherz are more than a new band – they’re a statement. Loud, bold, and fiercely alive, they represent the next generation of heavy rock, carrying forward the torch with thunderous pride. Their performance at The Underworld Camden was not just a gig, but a declaration: rock is not only alive, it’s roaring.

Watch this space – because The Motherz aren’t just another band. They’re a movement in the making.

Gig Review: Miguel Montalban & The Southern Vultures Live at Cart & Horses, London 

Gig Review: Miguel Montalban & The Southern Vultures Live at Cart & Horses, London