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.
Sunday, 12 February 2012
Tuesday, 13 September 2011
Sonner EP Launch
Saturday 3rd September
After a few minor setbacks the much anticipated Sonner EP launch had finally arrived, and I was excited! The Little Room at Independent, Sunderland, was host for the night, and there was already a good crowd taking shape. First up was Fatfield-based singer/songwriter Black Goose. There was quite a bit of narration and I was a little apprehensive, as I've often witnessed solo acoustic artists struggle against such noise. But this wasn't to be the case. This guy had a really distinctive, unusual and clear vocal, which dominated the room. His second song, for me, was very reminiscent of the Joy Division classic 'Love Will Tear us Apart', a song which I happen to love. Next number 'Polka Dot' was introduced as an acoustic version of a song by the artists' former band, You and Yourself. The set was quite varied, with songs different in both tempo and beat, and boy could he play guitar.
It was now time for headliners Sonner to take the stage. Opening with new song 'Back to the Border', they soon had the up-for-it crowd onside. The band are a four piece from Sunderland and surrounding County Durham, who describe themselves as "rock and roll with heart and soul", and that comment describes their music to a tee. They then played 'The Call', the first track on their new self-titled EP. Going on to play the crowd-pleasing 'Horizon', which didn't make the final cut, much to my surprise. They went on to play another favourite of mine, 'We Go Forth Tonight', dedicating it to David Burn, former Detroit Social Club frontman and producer of the EP, who had came along on the night to catch the lads live. The brooding 'Prison Man', the second song on the EP, followed. This is my top Sonner song of choice (not least of all because it reminds me of Depeche Modes' 'Personal Jesus'). By now both audience and band were in high spirits, and singer Mick left the stage and ploughed into the crowd, causing a great stir, especially when he adopted a real rock stance and brandished his guitar above his head, whilst hammering away on the strings! It had taken a while for this night to happen, but, in the end it was well worth it. These lads have really worked hard, have some great anthemic tunes and are really entertaining. I would suggest that you buy the EP (available from http://www.amazingtunes.com/users/sonner) and try to catch them next time they play live.
After a few minor setbacks the much anticipated Sonner EP launch had finally arrived, and I was excited! The Little Room at Independent, Sunderland, was host for the night, and there was already a good crowd taking shape. First up was Fatfield-based singer/songwriter Black Goose. There was quite a bit of narration and I was a little apprehensive, as I've often witnessed solo acoustic artists struggle against such noise. But this wasn't to be the case. This guy had a really distinctive, unusual and clear vocal, which dominated the room. His second song, for me, was very reminiscent of the Joy Division classic 'Love Will Tear us Apart', a song which I happen to love. Next number 'Polka Dot' was introduced as an acoustic version of a song by the artists' former band, You and Yourself. The set was quite varied, with songs different in both tempo and beat, and boy could he play guitar.
It was now time for headliners Sonner to take the stage. Opening with new song 'Back to the Border', they soon had the up-for-it crowd onside. The band are a four piece from Sunderland and surrounding County Durham, who describe themselves as "rock and roll with heart and soul", and that comment describes their music to a tee. They then played 'The Call', the first track on their new self-titled EP. Going on to play the crowd-pleasing 'Horizon', which didn't make the final cut, much to my surprise. They went on to play another favourite of mine, 'We Go Forth Tonight', dedicating it to David Burn, former Detroit Social Club frontman and producer of the EP, who had came along on the night to catch the lads live. The brooding 'Prison Man', the second song on the EP, followed. This is my top Sonner song of choice (not least of all because it reminds me of Depeche Modes' 'Personal Jesus'). By now both audience and band were in high spirits, and singer Mick left the stage and ploughed into the crowd, causing a great stir, especially when he adopted a real rock stance and brandished his guitar above his head, whilst hammering away on the strings! It had taken a while for this night to happen, but, in the end it was well worth it. These lads have really worked hard, have some great anthemic tunes and are really entertaining. I would suggest that you buy the EP (available from http://www.amazingtunes.com/users/sonner) and try to catch them next time they play live.
Sunday, 4 September 2011
Symphonic Pictures
Wednesday 10th August
I was really looking forward to this gig, as all of the artists playing I had seen before and enjoyed. First up was The Matadors, a four piece band from Newcastle. I first saw these guys supporting Detroit Social Club, at Plugged Inn earlier in the year. With an almost flamenco guitar-driven sound reminiscent of Last Shadow Puppets/Arctic Monkeys, I was reminded how much the singer sounded like Alex Turner, so much so that the second song in their set could have easily been an Arctic Monkeys tune. Although the crowd was small, the band semed to be well received. These guys don't have much between-song banter, they just dive from one song to another with a minimum of fuss. When they went into their 5th number, I was reminded of a cross between the Doors and Nick Cave, neither being a bad thing as I am a fan of both. They finished with a new one, 'Face Like Thunder' which was brilliant. Well worth checking out.
Next up was Sunderland singer/sonwriter, The Lake Poets, to whom I am no stranger. Martin opened with 'Rain' and then went on to play my favourite, 'Windowsill'. Next up was 'Friends' (about "friends who are
tossers"). Martin always likes to have a bit of banter between songs usually explaining the inspiration behind the lyrics. For the last few songs he was joined on stage by a bass player and finished with 'City By the Sea', which has become his regular set closer and always gets the audience going as it is a really catchy number.
The next act on stage was duo Gallery Circus, who I had only seen for the first time a few weeks earlier, and was I excited about seeing them again as they had totally blown me away first time around. The duo are obviously influenced by Muse, who just happen to be one of my favourite bands. When listening to Gallery Circus, it is hard to believe that there are only two of these guys. I didn't know one drum kit and one guitar could create so much beautiful noise. Launching into 'Outlaw Killer', the frontman announced that the song was due out on video soon. This song reminded me of a Darkness hit (of which the name escapes me!). These lads have great stage presence, and are fantastic showmen. I've never seen anyone take command of drums the way this drummer does, sitting at, standing up and running around his kit like a man posessed, whilst his twin brother attacks the guitar and belts out the vocals. The next song, 'Hands up for the Hipsters', was slightly different to the previous songs, with an underlying funky beat. You can check these guys out at gallerycircus.com, and I would strongly recommend that you give them a listen. Even better, catch them live.
It was now time for the headline act - Symphonic Pictures, and there was a really good crowd in the room. Two of the band are former members of the now defunct Detroit Social Club, but there is no detectable DSC influence. In fact, there sound is really psychedelic and very late era Beatles with guitarist Johnny and keyboard player Dale, sharing vocal duties. This was the third time that I had seen this band and, their number swells each time. Tonight being joined by a saxophinist, who also contributed vocals on the third song. For me, the saxophone really brought another dimension and some depth to the songs and worked well. Next they played 'Bootstrap Paradox', which has become my favourite, and could have come straight from a Beatles album. This trippy tune makes me feel like I'm on something! An imaginary, accompanying video featuring spinning psychedelic wheels goes through my mind whenever I hear it! This band is just so different from any other act around right now. Again, I can't recommend them enough.
It has to be said that, for me, this gig showcased some cracking north east talent, which seems to be flourishing and getting stronger all the time. And long may it continue.
I was really looking forward to this gig, as all of the artists playing I had seen before and enjoyed. First up was The Matadors, a four piece band from Newcastle. I first saw these guys supporting Detroit Social Club, at Plugged Inn earlier in the year. With an almost flamenco guitar-driven sound reminiscent of Last Shadow Puppets/Arctic Monkeys, I was reminded how much the singer sounded like Alex Turner, so much so that the second song in their set could have easily been an Arctic Monkeys tune. Although the crowd was small, the band semed to be well received. These guys don't have much between-song banter, they just dive from one song to another with a minimum of fuss. When they went into their 5th number, I was reminded of a cross between the Doors and Nick Cave, neither being a bad thing as I am a fan of both. They finished with a new one, 'Face Like Thunder' which was brilliant. Well worth checking out.
Next up was Sunderland singer/sonwriter, The Lake Poets, to whom I am no stranger. Martin opened with 'Rain' and then went on to play my favourite, 'Windowsill'. Next up was 'Friends' (about "friends who are
tossers"). Martin always likes to have a bit of banter between songs usually explaining the inspiration behind the lyrics. For the last few songs he was joined on stage by a bass player and finished with 'City By the Sea', which has become his regular set closer and always gets the audience going as it is a really catchy number.
The next act on stage was duo Gallery Circus, who I had only seen for the first time a few weeks earlier, and was I excited about seeing them again as they had totally blown me away first time around. The duo are obviously influenced by Muse, who just happen to be one of my favourite bands. When listening to Gallery Circus, it is hard to believe that there are only two of these guys. I didn't know one drum kit and one guitar could create so much beautiful noise. Launching into 'Outlaw Killer', the frontman announced that the song was due out on video soon. This song reminded me of a Darkness hit (of which the name escapes me!). These lads have great stage presence, and are fantastic showmen. I've never seen anyone take command of drums the way this drummer does, sitting at, standing up and running around his kit like a man posessed, whilst his twin brother attacks the guitar and belts out the vocals. The next song, 'Hands up for the Hipsters', was slightly different to the previous songs, with an underlying funky beat. You can check these guys out at gallerycircus.com, and I would strongly recommend that you give them a listen. Even better, catch them live.
It was now time for the headline act - Symphonic Pictures, and there was a really good crowd in the room. Two of the band are former members of the now defunct Detroit Social Club, but there is no detectable DSC influence. In fact, there sound is really psychedelic and very late era Beatles with guitarist Johnny and keyboard player Dale, sharing vocal duties. This was the third time that I had seen this band and, their number swells each time. Tonight being joined by a saxophinist, who also contributed vocals on the third song. For me, the saxophone really brought another dimension and some depth to the songs and worked well. Next they played 'Bootstrap Paradox', which has become my favourite, and could have come straight from a Beatles album. This trippy tune makes me feel like I'm on something! An imaginary, accompanying video featuring spinning psychedelic wheels goes through my mind whenever I hear it! This band is just so different from any other act around right now. Again, I can't recommend them enough.
It has to be said that, for me, this gig showcased some cracking north east talent, which seems to be flourishing and getting stronger all the time. And long may it continue.
Wednesday, 1 June 2011
Instamatic for the People Exhibition Opening Night
Wednesday 25th May
I arrived at the Cluny to see a section of its walls adorned with framed pictures. On closer inspection, six of the seven frames housed 33 instamatic photos and the 7th, 28 photos, all of musicians from across the region. As I wandered around I found it great fun spotting familiar faces and playing "Guesss Who", as I tried to match the musicians with their respective bandmates. It was also very obvious that a huge amount of time and patience had been lovingly spent on this project. All of the pics had been taken on a Fuji Instamatic camera (the modern day equivalent of the Polaroid model that every household owned back when I was a teenager in the late 70's!) The project, brainchild of local photographer David Wala, has been a year in the making. Having spent countless evenings frequenting gigs around the North East capturing local musicians, off-stage and "off duty". With the help of his partner, Jill, the precisely mounted and framed images had been carefully placed and perfecltly suited their surroundings. The Cluny being a prestigious music venue in Newcastle, and somewhat of a "spirtual home" for many of those pictured. In conjunction with the exhibition there is a book available, which for any photography enthusiast or local music fan, is an absolute "must have" collectors piece.
For the opening of the exhibition, David enlisted the help of some of his musician friends, to play (and DJ) for the evening to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust. He'd also roped in his friend 'Viz' co-creator, Simon Donald, to host the evening. Simon started the evening with a few acoustic songs to warm up the ever-growing crowd, finishing with a cover of Lindisfarnes' 'Meet me on the corner'. Next to take the stage was local singer/songwriter, Gem Andrews. This girls voice was fantastic and different to other local solo artists, with a country/folkie sound that I found very refreshing. The one thing that really annoyed me was the level of noise around the room during her performance. I really wish that if people don't want to listen to the singer, they leave instead of trying to compete with the artist to be heard.
Next up were Brilliant Mind, who I had seen only days previously, at the Other Rooms, and had really liked their sound. Tonight, however, they were playing as a three piece instead of their usual full band. These guys remind me of early Pulp - the singer has a definite 'Jarvis' thing going on. They sing songs about what they can relate to, such as being on the dole, at which point the singer engaged in a bit of banter with the audience, saying they were "the best days of his life" and thoroughly recommending it! The frontman also payed tribute to David Wala and thanked him for the support he provides to the local musicians. They finished with a Velvet Underground cover, 'Candy Says', to the delight of the crowd.
The following act, Symphonic Pictures, includes two former members of Detroit Social Club. I was very excited to see what they were going to sound like. This was their first gig , and as the four piece took their places on stools, I realised that this was not what I was expecting. It was strange to see former keyboard player, Dale, as a frontman. Their second song had a bit of 60's sound going on, with haunting guitar sounds. The next song 'Moon' saw Jonny Bond, (the other DSC member) take on vocal duties. I loved this song but have to say that my favourite in the set was 'Bootstrap Paradox', a song that would not have been out of place on the Beatles best of 'Blue Album'. This band just blew me away, and from the resounding cheers in the room, I don't think I was alone.
The headliner for the evening was The Greeting Committee, one of my newest favourite bands. Although they are influenced by Oasis (a band I'm not particularly keen on) their psychedelic/indie-blues sound is something I love. At times when I watch singer Jon, I am reminded of a young Roger Daltery. This was now the third time that I had seen the band, and they just get better every time. If you get the opportunity, go and see these guys, they are real showmen. Although it was late there was still a good crowd in showing their support for both the musicians and David. Simon Donald came back on stage to thank everyone involved. You can catch the exhibition at the Cluny for the next month and it's well worth a look. All profit from the book will go to the Teenage Cancer Trust and can be purchased online at http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/2204947
I arrived at the Cluny to see a section of its walls adorned with framed pictures. On closer inspection, six of the seven frames housed 33 instamatic photos and the 7th, 28 photos, all of musicians from across the region. As I wandered around I found it great fun spotting familiar faces and playing "Guesss Who", as I tried to match the musicians with their respective bandmates. It was also very obvious that a huge amount of time and patience had been lovingly spent on this project. All of the pics had been taken on a Fuji Instamatic camera (the modern day equivalent of the Polaroid model that every household owned back when I was a teenager in the late 70's!) The project, brainchild of local photographer David Wala, has been a year in the making. Having spent countless evenings frequenting gigs around the North East capturing local musicians, off-stage and "off duty". With the help of his partner, Jill, the precisely mounted and framed images had been carefully placed and perfecltly suited their surroundings. The Cluny being a prestigious music venue in Newcastle, and somewhat of a "spirtual home" for many of those pictured. In conjunction with the exhibition there is a book available, which for any photography enthusiast or local music fan, is an absolute "must have" collectors piece.
For the opening of the exhibition, David enlisted the help of some of his musician friends, to play (and DJ) for the evening to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust. He'd also roped in his friend 'Viz' co-creator, Simon Donald, to host the evening. Simon started the evening with a few acoustic songs to warm up the ever-growing crowd, finishing with a cover of Lindisfarnes' 'Meet me on the corner'. Next to take the stage was local singer/songwriter, Gem Andrews. This girls voice was fantastic and different to other local solo artists, with a country/folkie sound that I found very refreshing. The one thing that really annoyed me was the level of noise around the room during her performance. I really wish that if people don't want to listen to the singer, they leave instead of trying to compete with the artist to be heard.
Next up were Brilliant Mind, who I had seen only days previously, at the Other Rooms, and had really liked their sound. Tonight, however, they were playing as a three piece instead of their usual full band. These guys remind me of early Pulp - the singer has a definite 'Jarvis' thing going on. They sing songs about what they can relate to, such as being on the dole, at which point the singer engaged in a bit of banter with the audience, saying they were "the best days of his life" and thoroughly recommending it! The frontman also payed tribute to David Wala and thanked him for the support he provides to the local musicians. They finished with a Velvet Underground cover, 'Candy Says', to the delight of the crowd.
The following act, Symphonic Pictures, includes two former members of Detroit Social Club. I was very excited to see what they were going to sound like. This was their first gig , and as the four piece took their places on stools, I realised that this was not what I was expecting. It was strange to see former keyboard player, Dale, as a frontman. Their second song had a bit of 60's sound going on, with haunting guitar sounds. The next song 'Moon' saw Jonny Bond, (the other DSC member) take on vocal duties. I loved this song but have to say that my favourite in the set was 'Bootstrap Paradox', a song that would not have been out of place on the Beatles best of 'Blue Album'. This band just blew me away, and from the resounding cheers in the room, I don't think I was alone.
The headliner for the evening was The Greeting Committee, one of my newest favourite bands. Although they are influenced by Oasis (a band I'm not particularly keen on) their psychedelic/indie-blues sound is something I love. At times when I watch singer Jon, I am reminded of a young Roger Daltery. This was now the third time that I had seen the band, and they just get better every time. If you get the opportunity, go and see these guys, they are real showmen. Although it was late there was still a good crowd in showing their support for both the musicians and David. Simon Donald came back on stage to thank everyone involved. You can catch the exhibition at the Cluny for the next month and it's well worth a look. All profit from the book will go to the Teenage Cancer Trust and can be purchased online at http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/2204947
Saturday, 28 May 2011
COLOURS Charity Gig
Saturday 14th May
Tonights gig was in aid of Children North East and I hoped there was going to be a good crowd, as there was some cracking talent going to be adorning the stage. Having arrived just as the first act was finishing, my first real taste of the evenings' musical menu was a four piece called Stacie James. The band opened with Ceelo Greens' recent hit 'F... You', swiftly followed by 'Hella Good', another cover, this time by No Doubt. The female singer had a really powerful voice, and I would have liked to hear something that they had written themselves. The last song, old standard 'Stand By Me' was performed well, but I have to say that I'm not really into covers bands, and perhaps the next time I see them they will have something a little more original.
Next on stage was a six piece band from Newcastle, 'The Greeting Committee'. Once they got started, I recalled that I'd seen these guys perform before. They have just signed their first record deal and hope to release an album in the next eight months. With their psycedelic, bluesy rock sound, they reminded me of early Oasis. Singer Jon is a great frontman, confident with lots of energy and Ian Brown posturing. I looked around the crowd and noticed their approval in the form of mass nodding and foot tapping. They appeared to be going down really well. The singer also had a good bit of banter going on inbetween songs, reminding people that it was a charity gig, and to dig their hands in their pockets. Their third and fourth tracks, I thought, were reminiscent of Detroit Social Club. No disrespect to the band, but I thought the sound quality was quite poor. By the next track I was reminded of not only Oasis but Cooper Temple Clause. They dedicated the next track to 'Charlotte' and slowed the pace right down. I would really recommend going to see this lot if you get the opportunity. Although I've never been a massive Oasis fan, I really enjoy watching and lisening to this band and can't wait to catch them again.
Next to grace the stage was a band from Leicester, 'All the Young'. this four piece band hit the stage running, with masses of energetic drum and guitar, which really is my kind of thing. The singer was, perhaps ill-advisedly, sporting a pair of very dark Ray Bans in the dimly lit venue and reminded me of a young Roy Orbison, although I doubt this was the look he'd had in mind! Their next song 'Here to Stay' was reminisent of the Doves. I was looking around and was very disappointed to see that there wasn't a particularly good turnout. These lads. who are signed to Warner Brothers, played their new single 'The First Time'. Again, just as the previous band, the singer reminded people that it was a charity gig. I would really like to catch All the Young again, and hope that I don't have to wait too long.
Next up were local heroes, the 'Lake Poets' (and friends). This was going to be a treat for me. As a regular follower, I was excited to see who was going to be 'assisting'. Martin, aka Lake Poets, opened with 'Rain'. The next song, 'Friends', saw the arrival of more people, and at Martins request, the crowd moved forwards. On the next song, Martin was accompanied by local singer/song writer, Morris Ford on guitar. By the following two tracks, 'Edinburgh' and 'Leaving Do' (a Nev Clay cover), harmonica player, Steve Calder, had joined the boys on stage. There was even more musical collaborations to join the now growing throng of musicians, and I couldn't believe how much of a transformation it made to the usually solo artists' songs. They went on to play a catalogue of Lake Poet songs including 'Shipyards', a song dear to Martin as he wrote this for his grandfather who had passed away. For the last tune the headliners of the night, Chased By Wolves, also joined the entourage on stage as they performed 'City By the Sea'. By this point there was a great buzz around the room and people seemed to be really enjoying themselves. It was great to see the mutual respect and support among these musicians without trying to upstage one another.
Just before the last act of the night, (the aforementioned Chased By Wolves), organiser Chris Atkinson, or Aky as he is known, thanked everyone for their support, to a hail of cheering. Finally, the last band entered the stage. These guys have a really unique sound and don't resemble anyone that is around at the moment. When listening to them with their American Southern style vocals, it is hard to believe that you're not in a bar in Louisianna, sipping bourbon. They opened with 'Black Horse', which got the crowd dancing around and really enjoying themselves. For the next number, 'Be My Love', Steve Calder once again took the stage for harmonica duties. The unique haunting guitar sound on this track makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. The last song of the evening 'Lost at Sea', a rockabilly, country number had several couples in the audience really going for it, in a dancing sense. A triumphant end to a superb nights' entertainment...and all for a great cause.
I can't recommend the local North East music scene enough and I feel very priveliged to be able to attend and support such wonderful talent.
Tonights gig was in aid of Children North East and I hoped there was going to be a good crowd, as there was some cracking talent going to be adorning the stage. Having arrived just as the first act was finishing, my first real taste of the evenings' musical menu was a four piece called Stacie James. The band opened with Ceelo Greens' recent hit 'F... You', swiftly followed by 'Hella Good', another cover, this time by No Doubt. The female singer had a really powerful voice, and I would have liked to hear something that they had written themselves. The last song, old standard 'Stand By Me' was performed well, but I have to say that I'm not really into covers bands, and perhaps the next time I see them they will have something a little more original.
Next on stage was a six piece band from Newcastle, 'The Greeting Committee'. Once they got started, I recalled that I'd seen these guys perform before. They have just signed their first record deal and hope to release an album in the next eight months. With their psycedelic, bluesy rock sound, they reminded me of early Oasis. Singer Jon is a great frontman, confident with lots of energy and Ian Brown posturing. I looked around the crowd and noticed their approval in the form of mass nodding and foot tapping. They appeared to be going down really well. The singer also had a good bit of banter going on inbetween songs, reminding people that it was a charity gig, and to dig their hands in their pockets. Their third and fourth tracks, I thought, were reminiscent of Detroit Social Club. No disrespect to the band, but I thought the sound quality was quite poor. By the next track I was reminded of not only Oasis but Cooper Temple Clause. They dedicated the next track to 'Charlotte' and slowed the pace right down. I would really recommend going to see this lot if you get the opportunity. Although I've never been a massive Oasis fan, I really enjoy watching and lisening to this band and can't wait to catch them again.
Next to grace the stage was a band from Leicester, 'All the Young'. this four piece band hit the stage running, with masses of energetic drum and guitar, which really is my kind of thing. The singer was, perhaps ill-advisedly, sporting a pair of very dark Ray Bans in the dimly lit venue and reminded me of a young Roy Orbison, although I doubt this was the look he'd had in mind! Their next song 'Here to Stay' was reminisent of the Doves. I was looking around and was very disappointed to see that there wasn't a particularly good turnout. These lads. who are signed to Warner Brothers, played their new single 'The First Time'. Again, just as the previous band, the singer reminded people that it was a charity gig. I would really like to catch All the Young again, and hope that I don't have to wait too long.
Next up were local heroes, the 'Lake Poets' (and friends). This was going to be a treat for me. As a regular follower, I was excited to see who was going to be 'assisting'. Martin, aka Lake Poets, opened with 'Rain'. The next song, 'Friends', saw the arrival of more people, and at Martins request, the crowd moved forwards. On the next song, Martin was accompanied by local singer/song writer, Morris Ford on guitar. By the following two tracks, 'Edinburgh' and 'Leaving Do' (a Nev Clay cover), harmonica player, Steve Calder, had joined the boys on stage. There was even more musical collaborations to join the now growing throng of musicians, and I couldn't believe how much of a transformation it made to the usually solo artists' songs. They went on to play a catalogue of Lake Poet songs including 'Shipyards', a song dear to Martin as he wrote this for his grandfather who had passed away. For the last tune the headliners of the night, Chased By Wolves, also joined the entourage on stage as they performed 'City By the Sea'. By this point there was a great buzz around the room and people seemed to be really enjoying themselves. It was great to see the mutual respect and support among these musicians without trying to upstage one another.
Just before the last act of the night, (the aforementioned Chased By Wolves), organiser Chris Atkinson, or Aky as he is known, thanked everyone for their support, to a hail of cheering. Finally, the last band entered the stage. These guys have a really unique sound and don't resemble anyone that is around at the moment. When listening to them with their American Southern style vocals, it is hard to believe that you're not in a bar in Louisianna, sipping bourbon. They opened with 'Black Horse', which got the crowd dancing around and really enjoying themselves. For the next number, 'Be My Love', Steve Calder once again took the stage for harmonica duties. The unique haunting guitar sound on this track makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. The last song of the evening 'Lost at Sea', a rockabilly, country number had several couples in the audience really going for it, in a dancing sense. A triumphant end to a superb nights' entertainment...and all for a great cause.
I can't recommend the local North East music scene enough and I feel very priveliged to be able to attend and support such wonderful talent.
Wednesday, 18 May 2011
Hyde & Beast
Saturday 7th May.
Tonight was the night that everyone had been talking about, albeit in excited, hushed tones. A "secret" gig at Independent, Sunderland. The much-awaited live debut of Hyde & Beast. The duo from Sunderland comprising of Futurehead drummer, Dave Hyde, and ex-Golden Virgins drummer Neil Bassett. However, word on the street was that they would be joined by several other well known local musicians for this eagerly anticipated event. Swollen to a six piece on the Little Room's small stage, and heralded by trumpet, they played a majestic set showcasing tracks from their forthcoming first album, 'Slow Down', due for release in July. I immediately fell in love with their retro 70's psychedelic sound. It was great to see local singer/songwriter (and former Bassett bandmate), Lucas Renney on guitar duties, rocking out like I'd never seen before. The third track reminded me very much of T.Rex's 'Hot Love'. During this song Lucas was really going for it, and I don't think I've ever seen him so animated! It was great fun to watch.
It was good to see Dave Hyde as a frontman, and despite the first night nerves, he looked remarkably comfortable up front. And a revelation to see Neil back behind the drumkit as opposed to his usual sound desk! It was hard to imagine that these guys hadn't been playing together for centuries. They were all so laid back and just appeared so right together. It was also strange to see Futureheads frontman, Barry Hyde on keyboards (and aforementioned trumpet!). The next song was really upbeat, and had a country/rockabilly feel to it, reminiscent of Johnny Cash. 'Go to Sleep' the next song, was a really quiet number and the vocals reminded me of George Harrison. Dave made a bit of a joke about it being their "first AND last gig", much to the select crowds' amusement. Although this gig was mostly for friends and family, the band went down a storm and I can't wait for the release of the album, and to catch their particular and unique brand of live magic again.
Tonight was the night that everyone had been talking about, albeit in excited, hushed tones. A "secret" gig at Independent, Sunderland. The much-awaited live debut of Hyde & Beast. The duo from Sunderland comprising of Futurehead drummer, Dave Hyde, and ex-Golden Virgins drummer Neil Bassett. However, word on the street was that they would be joined by several other well known local musicians for this eagerly anticipated event. Swollen to a six piece on the Little Room's small stage, and heralded by trumpet, they played a majestic set showcasing tracks from their forthcoming first album, 'Slow Down', due for release in July. I immediately fell in love with their retro 70's psychedelic sound. It was great to see local singer/songwriter (and former Bassett bandmate), Lucas Renney on guitar duties, rocking out like I'd never seen before. The third track reminded me very much of T.Rex's 'Hot Love'. During this song Lucas was really going for it, and I don't think I've ever seen him so animated! It was great fun to watch.
It was good to see Dave Hyde as a frontman, and despite the first night nerves, he looked remarkably comfortable up front. And a revelation to see Neil back behind the drumkit as opposed to his usual sound desk! It was hard to imagine that these guys hadn't been playing together for centuries. They were all so laid back and just appeared so right together. It was also strange to see Futureheads frontman, Barry Hyde on keyboards (and aforementioned trumpet!). The next song was really upbeat, and had a country/rockabilly feel to it, reminiscent of Johnny Cash. 'Go to Sleep' the next song, was a really quiet number and the vocals reminded me of George Harrison. Dave made a bit of a joke about it being their "first AND last gig", much to the select crowds' amusement. Although this gig was mostly for friends and family, the band went down a storm and I can't wait for the release of the album, and to catch their particular and unique brand of live magic again.
Sunday, 15 May 2011
Viva City Album Review
After reading my online blog, I was asked by Trev Cairns of Viva City, if I would review their new album 'Phobia'. Of course I agreed, my first album review! Having seen these guys play live on several occasions, some of the songs on the album were already familiar to me, the final track, 'Hot Wax', being a firm favourite. If you like to listen to dancey, electro tunes with a bit of indie mixed in for good measure, then this album should definitely be in your collection. Viva City really know how to take 80's electro sounds and turn them on their head to make them current, and this is exactly what this album achieves. And if you're a Depeche Mode fan, watch out for track six, 'Western Front'. Anyone could be forgiven for thinking this was Dave Gahan and the Basildon boys at work. This is the first album from the Newcastle Glam Punk band, and it deserves to be played in every pub and club that prides itself in providing great dance music for its punters. When listening to this album, which includes a substantial number of tracks, it is hard to believe that it is the guys' debut album. From track one, right through to thirteen, the raw passion exuded is positivly electric. If this a taster of what's to come, I'm hungry!
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