The evening started with Avalanche Party. I wasn’t initially sure as the first song didn’t do anything for me. But as the songs flew by. I found I was really enjoying their set.

James Brute followed, playing grungie blues songs. Great voice and great guitars. What more do you want.

Closing the evening was Kingsley Chapman and his new band the Murder, a talented bunch of musicians playing doom-laden ballads. There’s really not many bands around like them. Tonight they were on top form with intense, brooding songs of love, life, and politics. It makes a change to see somebody sing with passion and things that mater.

Opening the evening were Manuka Honeys. They made some pleasant sounds. But they lacked any real stage presence. Everyone was rooted to their position. I think some bands forget that they’re entertainment.

Next up were Childcare with a proper lead singer. None of this playing a guitar and not moving around. No a full of lead signer who interacts with the crowd and looks slightly unhinged. You know, a proper lead singer.

Black Honey then closed the night in a whirl of guitars and full-on performance from Izzy. These guys are good.

I saw Kid Wave earlier in the year and thought they were good. I’ve been enjoying their EP for a few months and their new album is great. Support was from the Wharves. A band I seem to keep missing. I’ve had the album for a few months and it’s another great album. So I was looking forward to tonight’s gig.

Starting the evening off was a band called Bruising. As each song started I wasn’t sure about them but oddly by the end of the song, I found I was really enjoying them. This is despite the fact that I wasn’t sold by the mixing of the lead vocalists voice. She was a bit talky at times. This was okay. A little low in the mix. But usually at some point the song, she would sing – or rather shout and sing and I really wasn’t taken by this. But despite my reservations. I actually enjoyed their set. So something’s clearly working.

Bruising

It turns out I have seen some of the Wharves before. The lead singer is also the singer in the Drink. Again, I was impressed by her voice and this time there was a more respectful crowd and it turned out to be a rather delightful voice. Aided by great harmonies from the second vocalist and bass player. I need to mention how good all three of this band are. The drums had a great ‘meaty’ sound. The bass player played some great melodic bass and the lead singer’s guitar playing is beyond the usual quality of a singer / guitarist. All this wouldn’t be any use if the music they write together is rubbish. Luckily, it’s not. They’ve managed to create a pretty decent sound. Blending some unusual harmonies with some solid indie songs.

Closing the evening were Kid Wave who raised the energy level with a great set. They really are becoming pretty tight and with added familiarity of their new album. The set didn’t miss a beat. I really don’t think there was any weak point. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.

Marble Ray(s?)

Rose Elinor Dougall