It’s the kind of December evening that gnaws at your bones—grey skies, biting wind, and just enough drizzle to remind you you’re in Manchester. Inside New Century Hall, the soft hum of conversation mingles into the impressive venue space. No one is standing still yet it. felt calm and more familiar. These are people who know what’s coming: And So I Watch You From Afar (ASIWYFA).
Luckily for us, Rory Friers, guitarist and one of the founding members sat down with us before the show. Watch the full interview below:
There’s no aloofness, no barrier between them and the people who come to watch. The band has been together for over a decade, it’s clear that they are a brotherhood.
ASIWYFA’s latest record, Mega Fauna, dropped in July. When asked how it’s been received, Rory grins. “Some people have said it feels heavier, but to me, it feels lighter..."
We agree, having listened in chronological its clear that their music adapts freely and openely so, rather than being hammered down to a particular "sound". They dip and dive through a variety of emotions, timbre and musical elements that keeps their sound fresh and unique, keeping the ever hungry fan at bay with their explosive awesomeness.
We know Math Rock is not for everyone, and that’s the point. It’s complex, full of off-kilter rhythms and sharp angular melodies. You don’t stumble into math rock the way you might with pop or indie. You seek it out. It’s music for those who like to be challenged, who find joy in chaos. And ASIWYFA? We feel they relish in it.
But this isn’t about labels or niche subcultures to the band, it’s about creating something that matters. Rory puts it simply: “You have to find your niche..." and find those 500 or so fans that will support you at every stage of your musical career.
That’s what the band has done. They’ve built a loyal following—one that voted them fan favourites at ArcTanGent Festival, the holy grail for lovers of alt-rock, math rock, and post-everything in between. “ArcTanGent is a very special bunch of people” Rory reflects. And he’s not wrong. For those who’ve been, it’s more than a festival; it’s a gathering of the tribe. Everyone’s there because they genuinely care about the music. No pretence, no posturing. Just pure, unfiltered love for sound.
We can’t help but bring up the rise of Irish bands in recent years. There’s something happening across the Irish Sea.
Rory notes that. “Ireland’s having a moment, and we are proud to be apart of it".
From Fontaines D.C. to Kneecap, CMAT, & Obskur—the list goes on and its brilliant to see. For a band like ASIWYFA, who emerged from the Northern Irish scene at a time when opportunities were far more limited, it’s gratifying to see so many Irish artists gaining recognition. But there’s no bitterness, no “back in my day” cynicism, just genuine excitement.
During the gig, we find ourselves pressed into the crowd as the band takes the stage. There’s no grand entrance, no theatrics, and as the first notes hit, it’s like the room exhales in unison.
The energy is raw, immediate, and utterly captivating. Looking around, it’s clear that this isn’t just a gig. It’s a communal experience. Strangers exchange knowing glances. Heads bob in sync. Phones stay firmly in pockets, not because of some enforced rule, but because no one wants to miss a second of what’s unfolding and that's what makes the fans and the scene so fucking special.
Conclusion: Stick With It
After the show, we step back outside into the cold Manchester night, ears ringing, hearts full. There’s a lesson in what ASIWYFA has done over the years, in sticking to your craft even when it feels like no one’s listening.
In a world obsessed with numbers and instant gratification, there’s something beautifully defiant about that ethos. And for the band, it’s clearly worked. They’ve carved out their space in the musical jungle by staying true to themselves.
You can support And So I Watch You From Afar and us here at Acid Rain but giving us a follow below 👇 And as always, we will see you at the front.
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A Conversation with And So I Watch You From Afar | New Century Hall
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