May's Gigs: Reviewed

Back into the swing of things

9 bands this month. 8 of which I’d never seen before. Plenty of fantastic memories. All gigs under £15. Get out there people!

First up here are the albums I’ve enjoyed this month for the first time:

…and here are the songs I’ve shared through my weekly Recent and Decent playlists. If you haven’t subscribed yet, what the hell are you playing at?

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10th May - Chimers - The Holloway

Other Half - This was actually the band I wanted to see. Up until now, I hadn’t caught local legends The Other Half, and it was worth the wait. Absolutely explosive energy, all superb on their instruments, passionate delivery, interesting, dynamic songs. Rock the way it should be. ⍟⍟⍟⍟⍟

Chimers - These guys had a hard act to follow. Compared to The Other Half, their songs weren’t quite as interesting and they didn’t capture my attention quite as much. Still great though. ⍟⍟⍟

13th May - Dead Pioneers - Voodoo Daddys

Sleemo - They call themselves new alternative/punk but the occasional injection of screamo vocals and spidery guitar made them much more complex than straight-up punk. The bass was raw and prominent, and the songs were almost metal by design, with ambitious structure and development. Really awesome stuff. ⍟⍟⍟⍟

Jools - These guys blew me away. They delivered their brand of punk music with unparalleled passion that it didn’t really matter what they played. I honestly think their performance of one particular song was the best performance I have seen all year. Maybe ever. The male singer’s Dad had just passed away and he and the female singer both shout-sung through their tears. Music as therapy could not be better expressed than it was then. I don’t think I’ll ever forget it. ⍟⍟⍟⍟⍟

Dead Pioneers - Not sure if I’ve ever seen a sweatier guitarist. The lead singer was sincere, the lyrics poignant, the musicians excellent, and the songs great. Even a little mosh pit of about 8 people. Wonderful stuff. ⍟⍟⍟⍟

19th May - Band Night - Spiegeltent, N&N Festival

I was actually hoping to see the headline act, Pleasure Inc. but I couldn’t get through the third artist so had to leave early. Is that intolerant? Yes. But was I in bed by 10:15pm? Also yes. So I’m good with it.

Con & Milksy - A harmonising sister duo backed up by a flamenco-ish guitar. Really great, especially considering it was their first gig! Some interesting ideas in their songs. Would definitely see them again. ⍟⍟⍟

Ledbyher - Rapper and R&B artist originally from Kings Lynn, now based in London. Had great confidence and energy and wonderful voice control. Some of lyrics were a little unprofound and I felt like she had the energy to really make more of a statement. Still, enjoyable. ⍟⍟⍟

30th May - FEASTS - The Holloway

Anrufen - A backing track with someone playing guitar over the top doesn't sound good. But it was. It was really good. The backing track was masterfully produced, the guitar playing was expansive and expressive, and the whole concept ambitious and seamless. He weaved his way from one electronic, drum-heavy song to the next without stopping and it was great. ⍟⍟⍟⍟

FEASTS - I've now seen FEASTS more than any other band. And it's not just because they're local. I've just struck gold that a band so amazing lives so close! They always give a 5-star performance but, somehow, they sounded even better than usual! They had their usual raw, shouty explosiveness but there were touches of intimacy and moodiness too. Their new songs showed their willingness to keep evolving. Full body performances that I continue to find hypnotising and life-affirming. ⍟⍟⍟⍟⍟

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Sign off

Hmm… I currently only have one gig planned for June. We’ll see about that won’t we?

Any one else got any live music plans for the month? Or do you have your eye on some tickets? Please share!