Saturday 21st January
This was to be the first gig under the 'Lone Wolf Promotions' banner and promised to be a reall y good night, despite the last minute change of venue (due to unforseen circumstances). The gig was now to take place at Cosmic Ballroom, in Newcastle instead of The Riverside, and a change for the better on hindsight. I was really looking forward to this gig, as I was already a fan of three of the bands playing and had heard good things about the fourth - Sunderland three piece, Liars Lie! They describe their musical style as progressive/mathy/alt, they appeared to go down well with the smaller early crowd.
Numbers swelled for the next act on stage, one of my new favourite local bands, Watchers. Having seen them a couple of times previously I was really excited to experience their blisteringly unique live sound again and there was now a great buzz about the place. After their first song, a hooky, instant anthem, there was rapturous applause from the crowd, and they had really caught the eye (and ear) of Barry Hyde (Futureheads), Mick Ross and Dave Harper (Frankie & the Heartstrings), who had agreed to DJ for the event. The Newcastle band showcased some new material, one of which really reminded me of 'Handbags and Gladrags', in the chorus. I can't wait to see them again when they play The Dog and Parrot, in March. A must for any one who hasn't seen them.
Next up was Sonner, also showcasing a couple of new tracks which I really enjoyed. I've seen the band on several occassions and it was good to hear the lads play some new stuff alongside now-familiar favourites such as 'Horizon' and 'Prison Man'. Batting away a couple of technical sound issues they played a solid set of their own brand of "Rock and roll with heart and soul" ending with a belting rendition of 'Green Park'. You can also check Sonner out live in Sunderland soon, when they launch their new single. So keep your eyes open for this as they are well worth catching.
Finally the headliner for the night took to the stage. The eagerly anticipated psychedelic whirl that is Symphonic Pictures, with a showstopping set including wonderful tunes such as 'We All Come From Fire'. I really love watching these guys but have to say I was gutted that they didn't include 'Bootstrap Paradox', which quickly became one of my favourite songs of last year. I suppose I'll get over it, especially as there were plenty of other gems in there such as the joyous set-closer 'Backwoods'. You can catch them at Northumbria Uni on Sunday 19th February, and I strongly recommend you do!
By now all three special guest DJs were at the helm, taking us into the early hours with a superb eclectic mix of their chosen tunes.
The night was a great success and managed to raise £336 for a great cause - Help for Heroes charity. The night was also a great success for Lone Wolf Promotions, who promise further exciting gigs around the region in the coming months.
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