Thumper – The MVT Stage
This Irish shouty punk rock guitar band got the beach stage jumping for their fast paced set. Loved all their original songs but one thing that’s a personal bug bear is putting covers in a set which is a big no no at a music industry showcase. So 4 stars (would have been 5)
Bobby Tenderloin Universe – One Church
Phenomenally stylish Canadian country act blew the roof off the church with their melodic dark songs with a pop sensibility. Think a country version of David Devant & His Spirit Wife which is the closest I can get! The band features several members of the iconic Wet Secrets. I get the feeling this band will be huge and that they will amass a live following that will fill arenas across the world. 5 stars plus
Elouise – Komedia
Wow what a stunning sound this jazzy blues vocalist has. Gorgeous songs set tons cool laid back beat. Amy Winehouse meets Nina Simone! One to watch 4.5 Stars
Super Duty Tough Work – Green Door Store
5 mins late due to tech difficulties and then a very slow start, audience were getting restless and the payoff just wasn’t there. Super cool hip hop jazz fusion but it was missing something. Would like to see them again in a different environment. 2 stars
Balimaya Project – Jubilee Square
Some incredible musicians in this 16 piece contemporary Jazz group. This was a very ‘The Great Escape’ experience. Would I listen to this in the car? No. But outside in the sunshine it was enjoyable. 3.5 stars
Fraulien – Zahara
In the dark subterranean Zahara, Fraulein played to a half full venue. Weak vocals that stand out as weak having heard so many epic ones this weekend. Unimaginative 1 star
Crashface – Volks
Crashface gives an early 00s NIN vibe but they aren’t quite there. The whole set sounded like the credits music for every horror film you’ve ever watched. 2 star
Deadletter – Paganini ballroom
A pretty standard indie/alt band, all the songs melded in to one with no stand out moments. Very middle of the road 3 star
Lets Swim Get Swimming – Waterbear
Math poppers LSGS played to a packed crowd, their jangly, strange time signature, out of tune vibe is one that i’m just not cool enough to get. The drums brought it together a bit but it was a challenging listen. Worth it? I’m not sure. I’ll give it a 3 as it was interesting and I bet it’s good.
CVC – Brighthelm
6 piece welsh collective with a diverse mix of influences. Can’t say I heard much of these stated influences in their set though, wasn’t getting any snoop or chillis vibes. 3 stars
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