Death From Above 1979 SXSW Riot

Death From Above 1979 have sparked a riot at the finale of this year's South By Southwest.

One of the most visceral live experiences you will ever encounter, Death From Above 1979 were a blur of savage riffs, electronics and pounding beats. Somewhere between hardcore and blistering rave, the band's sole studio album - while fantastic - really doesn't do justice to the live show.

Announcing their return earlier this year, Death From Above 1979 caused a huge stir when the duo confirmed a performance at Coachella. As a special preparation, the pair later revealed plans to perform at SXSW.

One of the biggest and most important showcase events in the music industry, SXSW was reportedly witness to scenes of chaos during the performance by the Canadian group.

Thousands of fans packed into the show, the band's first in over five years. Erupting into some blistering riffs, Death From Above 1979 were apparently on typically astonishing form. However the crowd was soon whipped into a frenzy, becoming increasingly rowdy throughout the performance.

After about twenty minutes the band stopped and appealed for calm. Death From Above 1979 then began playing again, at which point it is alleged that mounted police waded into the crowd, branding mace and tasers.

Reports vary, with Spinner suggesting that one police officer even began "hand-beating a particularly aggressive rioter."

The band finished their set, with the crowd beginning to disperse after the efforts of the police. Videos from the performance have reached YouTube, with the police showing no signs of holding back.

Commenting to Spinner after the show, Sebastian Grainger said, "I didn't know the police were beating people. Damn, now I feel bad."