Music diary January to June 2012 § Nos vidit. Nos exaudivit. Nos scriptsit.

This page is part of the music section

Our diary of music concerts, shows and events in Leicester and the East Midlands. Notes about shows, bands and artists we saw in 2012.

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Articles on this page are by The Editor unless otherwise by-lined

May

12th May, Leicester City Centre

Today was one of those live music supercells, that happen from time to time. Our three reporters were out tonight covering six music events. Come back later for the full details but for the time being here are the headlines:

The Shed: Bands Question Time

The second Bands Question Time event went well with six panel members sharing their experience with an audience of up and coming young musicians.The six panel members sharing their knowledge and expertise were: Yasin Al Ashrafi, chairman of the Leicester Community Music Project and director of the NX Level; Chris Ostler, song writer, solo singer and support act for Joan Armatrading; Alex (Rooster) Van Roose, lead singer of Midnight Wire; Christine Vernon, owner of Fox Rehearsal Studios and manager of Leicester band Icons, Jed Spittle, songwriter and managing director of Manic Music Productions, and Mellow Baku, singer songwriter who had played at such venues as the London Jazz Cafe, The Barbican and the Royal Festival Hall.

Musicians and singers in the audience asked a series of seemingly simple but challenging questions: How do you publicise an act, other than through the Internet? What makes an act stand out, is it raw talent or stage craft? How do you get a record deal? How do you get into venues when your act is not well known?

Chair Trevor Locke recorded the whole session and hopes to bring out an article based on the answers given by the members of the panel.

The next event will take place at the Shed on 16th June.

Shed Matinee

The quality of the talent on stage at the Shed was amazing. Matinees at The Shed provide an opportunity for young artists to get up on stage and show what they can do. This afternoon there there was certainly no shortage of raw talent.

Chris and Megan opened the show with a demonstration of acoustic guitar playing that delighted the whole audience. Charlie, from Rugby, brought her beautiful voice and captivating songs to the room. The fine, clear vocals of Anna, from Sileby, were accompanied by Jack on the guitar and Matt Dobson on keyboard. Ilea Cavner from Ragdale, near Melton, delivered a set of songs that would put most of the semi-finalists in the X-factor to shame. 13 year old Billy gave us a vibrant set of rap songs and 15 year old Matt Dobson from Loughborough sang like a professional soloist, leading one musico to comment "We are looking at the next Tom Jones."

Three bands rounded off the show. Leicester's The Right Eyes played a set that resounded with reggae rhythms and funky beats. From Loughborough, a new band, To Be Confirmed, playing their first ever gig, featured the vocals of Aaron Stratton, opening their set with a cover by Biffy Clyro.

Just when you were thinking 'this can't get any better', three musicians climbed on to the stage to create one of those unforgettable musical experiences that you are unlikely to get anywhere else but in The Shed.

The trio from Bosworth, Brother, proceeded to astonish even the most experienced band members in the hall. With the powerful and resonant vocals from their lead singer and guitarist and impressive string work from the bassist, they delivered a set that was tight and flashing with fire and energy. There were some mind bogglingly complex and blisteringly fast guitar solos, that would have stood serious comparison to Jimi Henrix, to colour a performance that few other bands on that stage have achieved in recent times. Their set was simply sensational. They had been playing for only six months. They were Aiden Blythe (17), Ali Clinton (16) and Owen Blythe (13).

Several mature musicians in the audience, who had been performing in bands for 7 or more years, went outside to be sick. The rest of the musical community just commented in sheer adulation.

Rethink your mind, The Cookie Jar

Refuge and Grace and the Magic Roots featured in this important event to launch the latest mental health campaign. The bands were there to support the launch of Rethink your mind, the project that sets out to champion change in our attitudes to mental health. This national level project launched tonight, in a bid to put mental health issues into the spotlight.

The audience of artists, musicians and VIPs from Leicester society, were invited to invest in this visionary exercise, which had already received enthusiastic support from NHS Trusts, national charities and celebrities.

Leicester-based support groups Safe Inside, Safe Outside and HowRU? have joined forces with local band Refuge to power a national competition to focus people's mind on positive attitudes toward mental health, which affects one in four people.

Peter Hirst, lead singer of Refuge told the audience "Rethink Your Mind is all about shattering the stigmas surrounding mental health and reaching the thousands of people who may feel like they're suffering alone."

Peter wants to raise a wide ranging awareness of of mental health, securing support from big national names from the worlds of politics and television.

The evening heard the delightful and enchanting music of Refuge (the band is planning to bring a full length album later this year) and the delightful folk, funk band Grace and the Magic Roots. The songs of Refuge used moving lyrics, written by poets who had submitted their work to be 2011 competition, drawing on and reflecting the emotions and experiences of those with mental health issues and their carers, transformed into inspiring and uplifting songs by the wonderful musicians of Refuge. Sweet comfort for the soul, for example, was set to the words of award winning poet Georgina Wakefield.

Read our report about Refuge and the World Mental Health Day show, in 2011.

The Boobytraps, The Shed

The Shed had filled with a substantial crowd, there to hear Leicester's magnificent Boobytraps and a line-up of top supports acts. I was particularly interested in hearing Selby Court, with their lead singer Alex Totman, the one-time front man of The Heroes, with Heroes' member Alistair Lee on bass, and ex-drummer from The Tennysons, Karl Springthorpe. In the audience was Rooster, lead guitarist from The Heroes and now front man of his own band Midnight Wire. That might be an observation the import of which was lost on anyone other than music historians but I found it pretty engaging.

So yea, Selby Court. Did Totman's comeback live up to his formidable reputation? It was back in 2008 to 2009 that he was one of the most celebrated rock stars in Leicester. Apart from a one-off appearance on the stage of the Shed in 2011, he had been hidden from public view, thinking and writing, mixing the musical ideas that were now being heard on tonight's platform. The new band was nothing like the stuff that we had heard from his old band. It was certainly totally unlike the songs we are now hearing from Rooster's new band. It had all the swagger and balls you would expect and exciting sounds that suggest that this a band that is going to attract a large following. Scorchingly good stuff from three musicians of high caliber.

The compare shouted "give it up for the Boobytraps" and from the very first bars of the first song, audience members began dancing at the front. If you want to know what 'memorable songs' sound like, this band has several of the best. When it comes to 'influences' they wouldn't settle for anything less than Kasabian, Oasis, Kooks,The Pigeon Detectives and The Beatles. Their set took off from the word go, with driving beats, rockin' songs that are compelling and immediate, and catchy hooks that stick in your brain like super glue. Delivering plenty of punch, this is a crowd pleasing band that has a lot of musical nous.

Tell your friends it's true, My Town, are amongst my favourites.

The Boobytraps on Facebook | Selby Court

Amy Can Flyy, Leicester O2 Academy

Amy Can Flyy was back in Leicester with Formal Warning, Vengeance and Panda Youth.

Amy Can Flyy Photo © Scott Choucino

The pop rock band from Bournemouth - Amy Can Flyy - was on the bill at Leicester's O2 Academy tonight. The Queens Hall was packed. Not something you always see at O2 gigs these days.

ArtsIn saw them at The Shed in August 2010. They played that night with their Bournemouth mates Canada Water. Even back then the bands were well known in Leicester and a lot of fans had turned out to see them. We wrote: ' What strikes you about this band is that their whole approach to what they do is to have fun and to do everything they can to ensure their fans have fun. It's pop rock you can party to.'

Formal Warning Photo © Scott Choucino

Leicester band Formal Warning is a band that has matured from its early days of fire and fizz into a group of seasoned professional musicians that have clocked up a considerable number of hours on the road, in both the UK and Europe. The fire and fizz is still there as is the star quality vocals of Ash Wright. Tonight they released their album Out of our Minds. What strikes me most about Formal Warning is that they have a sound that is uniquely theirs. They sound like Formal Waning. That is a mark of distinction. This is a busy band, promoting themselves, cultivating their fan base, always moving forward to the time when they will be known not just in their home town of Leicester.

Formal Warning Photo © Scott Choucino

Broughton Astley band Veneance have been treading a path similar to that previously trodden by Formal Warning. It is easy to see them following in their footsteps. A group of talented teenagers got together and started to play music. It came together and it worked. They have good songs, they have a large fan base and above all they have a growing reputation with promoters and venues. As a band they are doing the right things. Their indie rock influenced set is mainstream and this will ensure them a position in the history of Leicester music, alongside Formal Warning and several other bands that are now standing out in our local area.

Panda Youth Photo © Scott Choucino

Like all of the Leicester bands that played tonight, we were there to see them when they started. We have followed Panda Youth since their very earliest days and have watched them develop and grow into substantial and admirable acts. Influenced by The Smiths and The Maccabees, their music has evolved and their ability to fire the enthusiasm of fans had steadily increased. It's not just their ability to write good songs and to perform like a serious band on stage that marks them out; it is also the ability and skill of the band members to get on with the back room work that is going to make their name.

Amy Can Flyy | Formal Warning | Vengeance | Panda Youth

A pretty good night out by all accounts. One known out of town band and a line-up of local bands that can pull a crowd. A winning formula I would say. Well done to promoter Andy Wright for scoring a hit with this one. It proves my point - that it's not about the venue, it's about the line-up. If a gig sees band members playing to each other, as has often been the case of late, in a number of venues, then someone somewhere has got it wrong. Too many unknown out of town bands on one line-up seldom fills a venue. Someone said to me recently "It's not that there are too few people in Leicester who want to pay to see bands. It's that money is short these days and people won't pay to see crap line-ups." I kinda see where that guy was coming from.

The SoundHouse

By Kevin Gaughan

The Lovely Eggs (Lancaster), The Chimpanzees (Leicester), The Chizzits (Leicester) and Concrete Kisses (Leicester).

It was busy in The Soundhouse tonight - the crowd was plentiful, with a broader than usual group of people ranging from young students through to more mature rockers, some of which looked like they were still hanging on to their dream of seeing Status Quo one last time!

Having seen only one band from tonight's line-up before, I was now wondering what kind of music was on offer. First band up for tonight was The Chimpanzees, a four-piece Alternative/Garage band. I wouldn't know quite how to classify them, but they have good visual appeal with Jen playing her rather unique looking and sounding electric violin in the middle of the stage and brothers Aaron and Craig on guitar/lead vocals and synth respectively, either side of her.

Their sound was as individual as the look, it came across as powerful alternative, electro rock, with a distinctive edge. The music featured a fantastic mix of full-on synthesizers, fantastically haunting sound of the electric violin coupled with serious guitar lines and solid vocals. Just amazing, really need to see more of this band.

Watch this video of The Chimpanzees On YouTube.

The Chimpanzees on Reverbnation

The Chizzits, made me smile with their drummer twirling his sticks, standing up, singing along and generally being very enthusiastic about the whole thing, as if he were performing to a packed Wembley Arena! Still, very nice to see, though. The Chizzits put in a solid performance with their indie set, lyrics containing observations of everyday life, as seen through a young man's eyes.

The Chizzits on Facebook

Following on from The Chizzits was Concrete Kisses, a recently formed four piece band from Leicester. Pretty much performing the same style of music as the Chizzits and also taking the subject matter for their songs from observations of every day life. Putting in a good performance and mix of enjoyable upbeat original indie songs.

Watch Concrete Kisses on YouTube

Last on for the night and the band that absolutely everyone - including the hairy rockers - headed towards the stage for, was The Lovely Eggs.

The Lovely Eggs is a two-piece from Lancaster, with David Blackwell on drums and Holly Ross on vocals and guitar and lead vocals.

At this point, The Soundhouse was packed, as the Lovely Eggs started their performance. Holly entertained the crowd between songs with some pleasant chat and background information about their music which was quite endearing, especially telling us about some of their songs being inspired by food. Both band members looking so thin, I wouldn't have thought they'd have had much experience of it!

I could now see why there was such a diverse range of people in the audience - their music spanned various genres: punk, grunge a bit of rock. You would, however, classify it. It's definitely alternative. Full of energy and attitude and absolutely brilliant! With song titles like F*** it! (Lancaster's national anthem, apparently!) and People are Twats, maybe not too serious about lyrical content, but it's all good-humoured and done rather well.

Refreshingly different, good fun and just great sounding music. They have played a number of venues in Leicester so I can understand why they have such a huge Leicester following - because they're just fantastic!

Watch The Lovely Eggs on YouTube

The Lovely Eggs on MySpace

The Boobytraps at The Shed

The Boobytraps headlined at the Shed, with support from new Leicester band Selby Court and others.

10th May, electronic music

We published a piece about the work of dubstep music producer Matt Oliver.

9th May, cutting edge music

Did some research into the work of De Montfort University's music-related institutes as part of an article about the History of Art Education in Leicester. Now working on cutting edge electronic music.

April

Saturday 28th April, The Musician

Tonight saw the first of two semi-finals take place for the OBS. Our review is up now.

Saturday 28th April, The Grainstore, Oakham

The Boobytraps with support from Raptusound and Preacher and The Bear play at the launch night of A Lost Weekend Festival. Read the report.

Friday 27th April, The Musician

Kevin Gaughan writes:

I went to see The Breakdowns, Skam and Hells' Addiction at the Musician.

First band on tonight was Nottingham's The Breakdowns who entertained the crowd with their indie Rock and Roll. The music was complimented by an entertaining and lively stage show with plenty of stage presence.

Next on stage for the night were Skam, fresh back from their UK tour supporting The Answer and The Union. I always really enjoy their show when performing their original material but tonight was going to be the first time that I was going to see their covers show. They played with all the enthusiasm and on-stage antics that Skam are famous for.

Some of their songs were a little cheesy and others were sheer quality. Their covers consisted of a whole spectrum from Queen to The Cult and AC/DC, finishing with the classic Whole Lotta Rosie, warming the crowd up nicely for what was to follow.

Last on for the night was Hells' Addiction. The Headbangers in the crowd already being warmed up from Skam were now on full throttle. By this time the venue was packed as Ben Sargent's growling vocals, coupled with brother Liam on guitar provided some solid, unadulterated rock. These guys just keep getting better and better and tonight, the first time I had seen them for a while, they were mind blowing, raising the bar, and putting me on a new level of rock ecstasy.

The Breakdowns | Skam on Facbook | Skam on ArtsIn | Hells Addicition on Facebook

Friday 27th April, Lock42

Iziggy and Some Weird Sinners took to the stage at Lock42; here's our review

Wednesday 25th April, The Shed

On stage tonight Leicester bands Flux and The Beeliacs.

Flux is an indie/punk band from Leicester. Lead singer and guitarist Dominic Bryan sang strongly and with good vocal characterisation, backed by Cameron Flavell on bass. Lively and ear-pleasing songs, either covers or their own originals. They staged well and the music was vibrant and lively. With their inventive compositions, they were an enjoyable band and we liked them a lot.

Flux on Facebook

The Beeliacs brought a delightful measure of jazz, funk and swing to the stage and lit up the room with their engaging set of songs, aided by the superb harmonica playing of Carlos Stein.

The Beeliacs

Thursday 26th April, The Musician

We review an amazing night of folk music at the Musician in our report on the Anti-Capitalist Roadshow.

Thursday 26th April, The Shed

Shirley Norris writes:

This was a packed evening with six bands supporting The Erotics on their UK tour. Held at The Shed, the evening started with Psycopathic Tendencies, a four piece band from Derbyshire. The first thing I noticed was their attire: one had a Mohican hair style, another was dressed ok but had a red cap and red trousers which together reminded me of the game Paper Boy, sorry. Unfortunately there wasn't many people to listen to them but they played very well, I liked them. Each one gave a very good performance. The words I could hear, the drumming wasn't monotonous and both guitarists played some interesting pieces. Apart from their own songs they played a cover of Beer by Reel Big Fish. I would like to see them again.

Stereotypical Blues Train are a four piece blues/rock band from Northampton. They just got straight down to business and played very well, though I enjoyed the latter half better. It might just have been the songs they chose, as no fault in their playing. I wasn't sure about the singer being on his knees a lot because only those near the front could actually see him.The last song was very dramatic and lasted about 10 minutes, but was their best song, although a bit too long.

A group from Worcester called This Wicked Tongue were next. A four piece rock band. Not sure why they took a long time to set up, which upset the schedule for the rest of the bands. Even when they were set up ready to go they didn't look happy. They played well; the female singer has a good voice but I felt it was lost in the band, though when the band played without the singer they were good, and showed their talents. Whether this was one of their better performances only they know that.

This group seem so professional and polished - they are Produkty. Usually they are a four piece but tonight only three, one being a lady drummer. They hail from Leicester and reminded me of Roxy Music most of the time.They always give a good performance, even with one down it was no different. I always like to see these.

Baby Godzilla what can you say about this wild, very talented four piece band from Nottingham? If the singer and one of the guitarist stay on the stage for five minutes you're lucky. I wonder how they would be if they were made to stay on the stage? How they manage to play, sing and tumble about amazes me, but they do it with ease. When they come right up to people's faces, it must be quite scary - they are like monkeys all over the place. Their music is loud, and good, but because they are up to their antics you can't appreciate it fully, which is a pity. I feel it was a night that didn't go to order, and this band was no exception.

The Rosarys were three lads from Coalville. As as they had to wait they had plenty of time for drinking, so I admire them for getting themselves together to perform. I will reserve judgement on them until I have heard them again, but I'm sure they are good.

Heading the line up was a band from Albany, New York, The Erotics. A three piece, their genre is described as 'low strung, dirty rock 'n' roll', so need I say more? They have been together for 10 years and it showed in everything they did. This was the first gig of their UK tour, on the back of their new EP. They never stopped in between songs for applause, as if to say 'we don't need it after every song but the end will do.' Which is exactly what happened. They were very well received by all. Once again it was a good to see most of the bands staying to support each other. It was a very enjoyable evening.

David Norris is th CEO of Music First Promotions.

Tuesday 24th April, O2 Academy

Top US rappers join Professor Green at the O2; read our report.

Thursday 19th April, O'Neills bar

Amanda Bowe reports:

This Battle of the Bands event saw four bands fighting it out to get through to the Battle of the Bands semi final. Each with their own individual sounds and songs, they played a medley of tracks to entertain the audience.

With each drink that a member of the audience bought, they were given a raffle ticket enabling them to vote for their favourite band and ultimately help them through to the next round.

The audience, although fairly small, seemed to enjoy the individuality of each different band and were keen to vote for their favourites.

First to perform was a young energetic band from Nuneaton Speaking in the Shadows. With a great sound and some strong vocals from their lead singer they kicked the gig off with a great set that got the audience up and dancing. Speaking in the Shadows played an assortment of five songs, all with a rock edge but a slightly different sound allowing all different tastes to be accounted for.

Second to perform was Desensitised from Nottinghamshire. Primarily a girl group with their lead vocalist being a female they immediately had a different sound from the previous band. Desensitised played a medley of songs ranging from those they had written themselves to covers of other popular rock music. The assortment of original and cover songs allowed the audience to join in and sing along. Desensitised gave a particularly strong performance and this was reflected in the crowd's enthusiastic response.

The third band to perform was Nuneaton band The Jav'lins. As soon as the Jav'lins took to the stage the audience were eager to see their performance and certainly weren't disappointed. With a slightly softer sound to the previous bands The Jav'lins performed a range of their own original music which was catchy and upbeat and immediately had the audience up and dancing around them; there was even an attempted crowd surf at one point. The Jav'lins seemed to receive the biggest response from the audience and everybody was keen to hear more.

Last to perform in the battle was The Blazing Owls, the perfect band to finish off the evening. With a slightly mellower sound than the previous bands and clear and coherent vocals and a rhythmic sound, The Blazing Owls' talent shone through and ended the competition with a relaxing and individual sound.

After all the great performances of the evening it would have been a difficult decision to choose a winner; thankfully it was down to the audience vote and going through to the semi finals of Battle of the Bands were the audience's clear favourites: Speaking in Shadows and Desensitised.

Telstar, a young and vibrant band from Watford, finished off the evening. After winning many competitions themselves they applauded the talent of the bands that had been performing. Their exciting sound drew in a large audience and was clearly the band that they had been waiting for. With fresh, energetic and edgy vocals they had the attention of the audience from the first few lyrics. Their experience shone through over the previous acts with a more alternative vibe which was enjoyed by everyone. Telstar's performance was a fantastic way to end an enjoyable and atmospheric evening.

You can see Telstar at The Shed in June - check our gigs listing for details.

Saturday 21st April, The O2 Academy, Leicester

The Boobytraps, Move and Kav on stage at the O2. Read the gig review by Kevin Gaughan.

Thursday 19th April, The Bridle Lane Tavern

Carlos Stein writes:

Top night, as usually expected from the Bridal Lane Tavern last night. Everyone seemed to be in a mood to 'get down and jam', so jam is what we had. I also got to mingle with Rhett Barrow, and Robert Samson, after showing us their current musical delights, while I demonstrated how to mess up a couple of loops whilst reciting a totally unrehearsed set of lyrics composed moments earlier at Sainsburys. Thanks to host Anthony Knott and Ian Bedder.

The Bridle Lane Tavern on Facebook

Saturday 14th April, The Musician

At the OBS, seven bands are called back for a second chance to get into the semi-finals and two got through; see our report

Tuesday 10th April, Sumo

A whole night at just one venue! Four piece hard rockers Lucid took to the stage. Guitarist/singer Joe Scott put in some shouty vocals in the first number, before going into a more conventional line of singing for the second song. Not big on stage presence, they did deliver a respectable cover of Metallica. Tight playing and some acceptable work from the guitars, they looked liked students (except for the drummer), so not an image-conscious band that looks like their music.

Linear were sensational. Amazing vocals from Jack Franklin tightly backed by the other four musicians in a series of dramatic songs that were tingling. A possy of fans gathered in front of the stage to support them, listening to a set of tracks that were dynamic and that glittered with clever orchestration. For their second song they played a cover but even this was good. Real passion and on-stage movement added up to irresistible music. This band will go a long way.

Touring in from Blackpool, established alternative rockers Escape Artist raised the temperature. You could tell straight away that you were in the presence of a well experienced band. Sam Ansell on lead vocals and guitar did a pretty good job at the mic with backing support from Lia Hayes on bass. Their set brimmed with energy and commitment and a lot of people in the audience were seriously impressed.

Joe Walker on stage at Sumo with White Ashes

The band I went there to see was White Ashes. I had been following their progress for years, well probably since they began to shine on the newbie bands scene in about 2009 following their formation in 2008. We interviewed them for ArtsIn in 2009. I was there when they played at the open air show put on by The Auditorium in July 2010 - I wrote: 'Joe Walker's vocals and vigorous performances give the band its hallmark.' In February 2011 we reviewed their track Same Old Feeling, saying ' It's a pleasing tuneful ballad with some big backing from the band. Joe sinks a good deal of passion into the vocals and the whole track has some splendid dynamics. A good song from one of our hard working bands.'

Joe Walker on stage in 2010

It was good to see them back on stage again, even though I reckon they will loose their bassist as his commitments to Linear grow. The one thing you can say about lead singer Joe Walker is that he fires his live work with lashings of energy. I still remember Joe on stage at the OBS in 2010, where he put on an impressive performance. Tonight White Ashes pumped out a set of high octane songs, still able to prove that they have some really good tunes in their repertoire of original songs and the skill to play them with gusto and conviction. I don't know if they will carry on but I hope they do; Joe Walker has achieved a lot in the past few years and I can see him going on to bigger things.

White Ashes photo shoot, 24th April 2010

Saturday 7th April

One BIG day of live music in Leicester.

Part 1

The Shed was the venue for Bands Question Time, an event put on my Leicester's ArtsIn Productions. Over 40 young musicians and their supporters turned up to put questions to a panel of music industry experts, about how to organise a successful band.

ArtsIn Productions Ltd

Part 2

Young bands took to the stage at the Shed for April's young bands matinee. Some impressively good singers started the afternoon off, including Anna, Aaron Stratton and Finn Morris. We were also impressed by new bands Red Orange from Market Harborough, Montis Insignia from Ayleston and the well established young band Vengeance, whose set was scorchingly good. All these young artists performed exceedingly well and the full house of friends, fans and family enjoyed an afternoon of good live music.

The next Shed Matinees for young bands and singers will be on 12th May and 16th June.

Part 3

In the evening the Shed played host to a line-up of bands: Unleashed, a three piece from Market Harborough, new band The Accidents, Observing the Ghost, progressive, atmospheric band from Portsmouth, and Derby band Bury The Ladybird.

We particularly liked Unleashed, with the strong vocals of their lead singer and the razor sharp tightness of their fastly paced punky/metal-edged songs.

Bury The Ladybird is a signed band we have seen before and that has played Leicester several times. Back in 2010 we wrote " Vocalist Tiggy Dockerty led the band through their set of vivacious pop rock numbers that clearly appealed to the music hungry audience. Drawing their influence from a wide range of influences, including Florence and the Machine , they proved themselves to be competent musicians with an entertaining musical offering."

Bury The Ladybird on Facebook

Saturday 7th April at the SoundHouse

We had to skateboard over to the SoundHouse to catch one of our featured bands, The Tennysons. The Tennysons put on a resoundingly good show for their room full of fans and supporters. The lads were on top form, now armed with a new drummer Tommy Wilkinson. With two birthdays in the family and friends packed in at the front of the stage, it was an especially party fuelled atmosphere.

Their set included some new songs, not heard before, testament to the phenomenal song writing gift of lead vocalist Ryan Dunn. In fact, I would say that Ryan has the makings of a new Noel Gallagher and I felt that what we were seeing tonight was much like the early days of Oasis in the 1990s.

This a true Leicester lad rock band; in a city populated by hundreds of bands, The Tennysons stand out as being of the few that really evokes what Leicester rock is all about. Tonight they created a magic atmosphere and showed what the total experience of live rock is about.

You can see The Tennysons on Saturday 4th August at Cosby BigLove - Music In The Meddow.

The Tennysons - Band of the Month November 2011

Tonight's line-up included The Shindys from Chesterfield, who clearly won over a lot of Leicester fans, judging by the comments were were getting about them. Local band The Wayward Charm, from Syston, also came in for quite a bevvy of enthusiastic plaudits and comments like "I loved their bouncy songs, hooks and catchy tunes." They are playing at the Looking Glass on 26th May.

So, a massively good night at the SoundHouse.

Saturday 7th April, Lock42

Matt Friane writes:

Sink The Galleon got together with The Unknown Bullet and If Looks Could Kill and Deadlight to put on a really good show at lock42.

Sink The Galleon were really loud but good to watch and got the crowd going. If Looks Could kill played a tight set and their vocals were brilliant. Deadlight were awesome and good to watch. The night drew a good crowd of around 40 fans. The Unknown Bullet were the headline band.

Saturday 7th April, Fabrika

The Lysergic Suite played at the Fabrika Arts Centre in Humberstone Gate. Kevin Gaughan has the details.

Tuesday 3rd April, The Musician

At the Musician, a line-up of the musically unsual, the artisticly different and sounds that were outside of the box. We review music at the edge.

Monday 2nd April, The SoundHouse

ArtsIn gives priority to following its featured bands. For us the performance by Leicester band Neon Sarcastic was a must; moreso, because thisis one of the now established bands that we have followed since their very first gigs.

What was interesting about tonight's show was to see the way that they have developed their musical style. In some ways it is now less reflective of the band's early days as aconites of Blink 182; now they have introduced heavier, harder sounds. They can start a song with a bouncy melodic line which later explodes into an incandescent burst of musical fire.

NS has moved on from their early roots, introducing more contemporary riffs and rhythms, whilst still retaining the characteristic vocal layer and characteristic song writing. They are, after all, a band that has had the same line-up of musicians for quite some time now.

Tonight's show was headlinded by Portsmouth Band The Bottom Line. The trio from the Solent had a rap, rock, pop sound similar to that of NS. With two good vocalists and a chirpy stage presence, they plied the room with a set of bouncy songs. Their pumping pop rock was delivered with plenty of energy. The Bottom Line on Facebook

See our feature article on Neon Sarcastic.

Sunday 1st April, Curve

Harjinder Ohbi reports on Rhythm is the Soul of Music

Sandeep Raval is no mean feat when it comes to percussive instruments. He has an uncanny knack of collecting rare drums from across the world and gives the public a glimpse into his imaginative mind.

"I prefer a smaller audience, with whom you can engage, rather then a larger one. You get the best out of the artist and the audience itself that way", Sandeep said to me before going on stage with his band at the Curve in the city on Sunday (1st April).

True to his word, an appreciative audience sat and enjoyed a concert to be proud of. He produced a musical mix from all genres, creating a magical moment where blues, jazz and rare Indian classical music came together with an underlying percussive stance, alongside a jazz vocalist who is set to make a name for herself in the near future.

A quick solo on the tablas by the maestro was followed by Richard Outwaite on sax, Heath Randal (bass), Jacob Stoney (keys/guitar), Icardo Bonito (drums), Robin Christian (flute), and Kristel Morrison on vocals.

what a night it turned out to be. Everywhere I looked, people were tapping their feet ."The rhythm connects people", Sandeep said, as a tribute to the late Johnny Dunkworth. The music flowed later in nine beats with the honey voiced Kristel singing like a jazz singer should. It was sexy and reminded me of Pink Floyd's The greatest gig in the sky. Richard may be young, unwell on this occasion, but his sax was outstanding, throughout the concert.

So was Heath Randall, whose bass thumped at your heart beats. Sandeep mixes rare ragas with contemporary music and instruments, as he opened the second half. A rare Swiss percussive instrument flipped over on occasions to create the sound of pure electronica tablas on this round tin drum, the likes you see at barbeques. There was an Irish flavour to the gig with Ring of Cairn inspired by the band's visit to that land.

An encore ensued as the audience wanted more. This time the band was joined by a very young Zak on an electronic baby guitar. He is the son of Heath Randall, encouraged by his father but unsure what to do on this occasion. He is set to become a big star one day . There were elements of Mosaic in Motion, the last CD, but these were new sounds from their forthcoming album Rhythm is the soul of music is to be released later this year.

A music made for pure relaxation and a glass of red wine in hand. For me, whilst the creative maestro won hands down, it was Heath Randall with his brash licks on the bass, Kristel on vocals and Richard on the sax that won the day!

March

Friday 30th March, The Soundhouse

When a legendary punk band from Atlanta, USofA, turns up to play at one of our small venues, on the final night of their UK run, this is an unmissable event. Formed in 1981, The Queers have played a part in the development of american punk music and have gathered a considerable reputation. This band has been playing all over the world for nearly 30 years. Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in 1981, they derived their name from their dislike of the 'art fag community that acted all high and mighty strutting around town like they were better than everyone else there'.

They held the Ramones and Black Flag in high esteem and based their infectious brand of pop punk and surf on them. The night was opened by Flav Giorgini, Originally from Indiana and now living in Leicester. His brand of robust, vibrant acoustic songs celebrated some of the bands who have played with The Queers and the songs of the American punk scene.

On support were The Dead Class and The Kids. The Kids are a five piece from Leicester. Their lively set of covers and original songs, with three vocalists singing at the front, and backed by some massively good drumming from Paul Cole, set the room going. Bouncing punky songs dosed with fun and energy was a great way to hot up the room.

Leicester three piece Ivy Mike exploded into the room with scorchingly fast songs. It was a great blast, beats that galloped at a searing pace, with two good vocals and a drummer who thrashed the skins like a Kalashniko;, they fuelled the night with a rip-roaring set.

The Dead Class were good. Signed to Antipop Records. another trio, I liked their music. The lead singer sparkled and churned a good deal of power. They had a resonance - their music was creative, original, and compelling. Breaking new ground in the avenues of punk-dom their songs did not cling to established traditions. Fresh and irresistible - they did it for me.

The Queers were the headline act. It was old time, iconoclastic, punk-speed stuff from the golden age of the idiom. Relentlessly rapid songs pumped out one after the other. It was a celebration of the Ramones, peppered with wit and humour, in songs like Can't stop farting, or Love songs for the retarded. Described as 'inane, humorous and willfully offensive', they have never the less pioneered punk for a generation and spawned thousands of imitators.

Friday 23rd March, The Musician

Feedback Voice, Loves Sinister Choir, The Anteloids, We Are All We Know, Preacher And The Bear were on stage tonight for Heat 5 of the Original Bands Showcase. Read the review.

Wednesday 21st March, The Musician

Report by Amanda Bowe

Acoustic Sessions was presented by Horus Music and on the line-up were Chris Ostler, Fay Brotherhood and Lee Burns, Rosie Doyle and Theo Miller.

The event was held at The Musician - a unique venue with a friendly atmosphere and great vibe. Four acts took to the stage to perform their own style of music. The set was started with Theo Miller who sang a medley of his original songs accompanied with his guitar. Although there was a small audience at the venue Theo started the gig with a strong set, his vocal and musical talent standing out from the crowd with an individual sound. Though admitting to being nervous Theo came across as extremely confident and this was reflected by the audience through their enjoyment. Theo performed eight songs, one of which, Forgive and Forget led him to win a competition to play at De Montfort Hall in December.

See Theo Miller on Facebook

Theo was closely followed by Rosie Doyle. Rosie took to the stage and sang a medley of her own songs accompanying herself on guitar. Although admitting to be slightly under the weather, Rosie sang an assortment of songs ranging from those that were slow and emotional, to ones that were more upbeat. She had great stage presence and the audience, seemed to enjoy her performance, particularly her upbeat songs. Rosie gave a great performance that seemed to be enjoyed by all.

See Rose Doyle on Facebook

After a short break, the next artist to perform was Faye Brotherhood assisted by Lee Burns. Faye and Lee took to the stage with a very individual look and instruments that immediately intrigued the audience. They sung an assortment of pagan folk songs accompanied firstly by a guitar and violin and secondly by guitar and electric mandolin. The different instruments worked fabulously together and added a completely different sound to their music than the other acts. They played seven songs in total, each different to the last and really encouraged audience interaction. Overall Fay and Lee's performance was indiviudal and extremely enjoyable.

See Faye Brotherhood on Facebook

Last but certainly not least to perform was Chris Ostler. After admitting he was slightly nervous following the previous great performers, he didn't fail to impress the audience with his new and exciting set of songs. Chris has a different tone to his voices which, along with his strong songs, made his performance stand out. He used his guitar and some whistling to add an introduction to one of his songs which demonstrated his originality. Chris gave and extremely enjoyable and confident performance.

See Chris Ostler on Facebook

After an enjoyable evening and fantastic performances the night had come to an end but these acts definitely aren't to be missed especially in an atmosphere of such a pleasant venue as The Musician.

Visit the Horus Music web site

Saturday 17th March, The Musician

Blue Sky Goodbye, No More Adventures, The Incidents, The Kite Runners, Friendly Enemies, Four Point Oh took to the stage for the Young Bands heat of the OBS. Read the review.

Friday 16th March, The Musician

Different Fish, The Procession, Centre Excuse, The Furies, The Dirty G's brought their unusual mix of musical styles to Heat 3 of the OBS. Read our review.

Thursday 15th March, The Soundhouse

Soloist Dan Wright opened the evening's show with a selection of his own songs. Dan used his listenable voice with vitality to deliver his songs, picking the strings of his acoustic guitar and adding in some percussion with his hallmark foot operated drums and tambourine. A most agreeable and upbeat set with a modern style that went down well with the not inconsiderable audience.

Dan was followed by the amazing trio that is Kenworthy. As usual a large crowd of fans gathered in front of the stage to witness the astounding display of singing and playing that is the Kenworthy experience. The three musicians delivered a set of high quality jazz and blues numbers in a contemporary mode. As always a very great pleasure to listen to. Kenworthy won the Original Bands Showcase last year and are signed to Size Records.

The Shed, 15th March

The youthful members of Leicester quintet Linear took to the stage to add another successful set to their gigography, following their recent appearance at he OBS, where they were selected to go through to the Callback event. With their lead vocalist sounding like Morrisey, their original songs were quite impressive. They delivered a set of fast paced and passionate songs that were very agreeable. If they continue to write songs of that quality they will undoubtedly go far.

Those purveyors of popular melodies, The Hot Frolics brought their delightful blend of foot tapping rhythms and ear pleasing tunes to the stage. Entertaining and well played.

Wednesday 14th March, The Shed

Two solo acts stood out at tonight's gig at the Shed: Loughborough Rapper Jonezy on stage with Matt Dobson. As Jonezy rapped, Matt sang. So, everyone was drawing comparisons to Eminem and Dido's Stan of late 2000. Jonezy has developed his act, since his first appearances on Leicester stages in 2010. He now has a level style and confidence, after three years of determined development and regularl public performances.

On to the stage came vocalist David Pickering, who usually sings in bands but tonight was putting in a rare acoustic performance. Everyone was impresed by the range and power of his voice its ear-plesaing tonal quality.

Performing for the first tme was a new group, The Beeliacs. This six piece ensemble included the well known solo artist Carlos Stien on harmonica. Their set of jazz, blues and funk was well received, led by the fullsome voice of their female vocalist. Their songs were well presented and I can see them being invited back and being in demand in venues requiring good quality popular music.

Tuesday 13th March

Olive's Bar

Two Leicester bands have got into a successful collaboration: Us Wolves and Midnight Wire. Tonight they joined forces at Olive's bar to celebrate their home coming after a successful tour. A gig with a Champagne moment.

What stands out for me about both these bands is their songfulness. Between them they have written some of the most memorable and enjoyable songs I have heard in both 2011and 2012. Us Wolves now benefit from two excellent vocalists: James Ferraby and Josephine Ellul, two beautifully blended voices which add a lot of richness to the bands's vocal layer.

This being more of a party than a gig, their set list alternated between their own songs and covers, including Jackson's Smooth Criminal, Stevie Wonder's Superstition, Sting's Roxanne and the Arctic Monkey's When the Sun Goes Down. In between this highly enjoyable collection of classics, Us Wolves sang their own songs: Murder, Mirrors...

This is a band that knows how to write and perform top quality popular songs. Their stage presence bristles with vitality, a rocket-fuelled musical experience. Whether they are performing their own songs or well-known covers what they do is make slick pro-level music. They write good songs because they know what good pop songs are made of and how they work.

Us Wolves have bagged a contract in Bahrain, where they will be playing as the house band in a music venue for four months. Sun, sea and plenty of money in their pockets, I guess.

The great thing about seeing bands in the intimate setting of a small venue is that you can watch them and get the details you probably would not be able to notice in a larger auditorium. You get the feel of what it is like to play, notice small but significant interactions between the musicians. An Us Wolves performance is a very watchable experience. Whilst you can hear their razor-sharp tightness, you can see how they do it and you get that vibe from them, a group that really loves making music and puts everything they have into a performance.

Another set of songsmiths took up the party baton as Midnight Wire began their set. With three good vocalists at the front and plenty of catchy hooks to colour the songs, Rooster led the group in a performance of most of the bands's repertoire.

Several people told me how much Rooster's vocals had improved since the band launched on to the music scene in September 2011. Improvements stemming (I suspect) from many live gigs and possibly some vocal coaching from the pros in UsWolves, Rooster's front man theatricals make him look like a real rock star as well sounding like one.

The venue was littered with flyers from the bands. As I keep on saying to musicians, it's no good telling people your addresses on Facebook, Myspace, web site, ReverbNation, etc. Give them a flyer and they will take it home and add you.

Having played recently at The Cavern in Liverpool, I was told that a member of the audience commented "If they don't signed there is no justice in the music industry." Justice in the music industry! Whatever next. That's about as likely as democracy in Syria. Both bands deserve to be signed to a major label and if only the A&R would get out of London and come to Leicester they would see what a wealth of great musical talent we have here.

If I worked as an A&R man I would want to see a new band that could write highly saleable songs, had a respectable track record of gigs, had an on-stage presence that excites people - from a small venue to a big stadium - had one crazy rock dude of a lead vocalist backed by three solidly professional and level headed musicians, were generating new songs on a regular basis, had songs that would definitely get into the top of the charts and could transform a gig into a party ... yep, if I worked for a record label I would sign up Midnight Wire on the spot.

Midnight Wire play at the legendary 100 Club in London on Friday 16th March

Us Wolves | Midnight Wire's launch night

Saturday 10th March, The Musician

Heat 2 of the OBS saw Raptusound - one of our featured bands - get through to the semi-final rounds. Read our review.

Friday 9th March, The Musician

Heat 1 of The Original Bands Showcase brought a strong line-up of bands to the stage. Read what we said about it.

Thursday 8th March, The Donkey

"Most members of the South came from the legendary national chart-topping The Beautiful South", read Kevin Gaughan's review.

Saturday 3rd March, The Phoenix

Lunchtime saw the cafe at the Phoenix Arts Centre fill up with people - there to see the singers brought to the stage by Next Wave, Manic Music Production's monthly events that showcase and encourage new talent.

When I arrived, eleven year old Alex McCarthy was playing the saxophone, very well indeed. The Next Wave concerts are mainly aimed at artists aged 16 to 24, giving them a chance to perform to a fair sized crowd in a friendly and safe environment. It was an added bonus that the PA system was really excellent.

Becky Reid sang some familiar covers, accompanying herself on the Ukulele. After opening with Greenday's Time of your life, Becky went on to cover Let it be, by the Beatles Singing in a clear and well articulated voice she delivered the songs faultlessly, even if lacking a bit of depth to her interpretation.

Opening with one of her own songs, established acoustic singer Rosie Doyle, opened her set with a fast paced tune, made vibrant with good backing on the guitar. Her voice is very clear with an attractive tone, backed by intricate picking of the guitar strings. Her song was warmly applauded by the audience. In her own songs she demonstrated enchanting song writing, as in her own songs Yellow Brick Road and Things Change which she delivered in a very listenable voice.

Following Rose, singer songerwriter Theo Miller kept the momentum going. Delivering a vocal line of exceptional clarity, his voice was strong but deployed with subtle intonations, brought out by good microphone technique, he demonstrated his distinctive skills as a gifted writer of songs.

With the engaging lyrics of Drop by my way, an emotional song about a difficult relationship and I want to start a revolution, bearing lyrics shot with irony, if not a little cynicism:

I want to start a revolution
but I've no time
It's always power to the
people
If only they'd try

he held the attention of the audience throughout his set.

Theo included his song Majority, which describes an underage girl on a night out - she walks around in a skimpy skirt - using her fake id to pretend she is older than she actually is.

Today is the oldest you've ever been
and youngest you'll  ever be again

A singer of fine quality, he gave his songs plenty of expression and emphasis. A truly captivating performance.

Theo Miller will be appearing at he Musician on 21st March with Chris Ostler.

Another star of the obsUnplugged, Prash Gor is enjoying a rising career as a singer of popular songs. His upbeat melodies were delivered in a voice with a soft, pleasing texture, which he used to good effect to bring out the mood and passion of his songs. Prash ably put his guitar to good use and his stage presence, though confident, does still seem to be a little shy at times, although he clearly loves to sing. A fine performance that kept and held the attention of large and quite mixed audience, gathered at the tables of the cafe.

Next Wave takes place again on Saturday 7th April

News about Prash Gor

See Manic Music Productions web site.

Friday 2nd March

The Flapper

ArtsIn goes on tour. We joined the fans of The Delis Mix at the Flapper, in Birmingham's Canal District, for their successful bid at the First Heat of Surface Unsigned.

The Flapper is one of my favourite venues, outside of Leicester. I seem to have been there many times and have always enjoyed my visits to this likeable venue. When ever I go there, it always seems to be hosting a party for the local rock fans.

Tonight was no exception, as the fans gathered to cheer on their favourite acts in this first round heat of the Surface Unsigned contest. I was there because The Deli's Mix was there. It also gave me a chance to catch up with some of my mates from Surface and find out how the festival is doing.

Tom Zbaraski fizzed as he delivered the vocals for the band's energetic set of songs. Afterwards, I asked him if he wouldn't mind if I dubbed him Leicester's answer to Freddie Mercury, on account of his flamboyant stage performance. He wasn't entirely displeased at this. Watching the four of them on stage, I noticed how they all looked like a serious band. Meaning, that they all appeared to be totally engaged in the music, were really enjoying playing and were giving it all they had got. That's the business.

Tom Zbaraski Photo © Erin Considine

What they collectively exuded was that magic combination of fizz and scintillating playing. They didn't just stand there and play their instruments: they lived their music. That infected the crowd with the virus of entertainment. Guitarist Andy Cooper came to the front of the stage to deliver his solos, demonstrating his considerable abilities at picking those strings into mesmerising arpeggios and flourishes. Tom drew the crowd in, getting them to sing along with the choruses and went down into the throng to sing to individuals. Teamwork - that is what you see during a Deli's Mix set. Four guys working together like a well-oiled machine.

For a band that has been playing for only a few months, it was a remarkable performance. They have a style and sound all of their own. A band with a promising future.

The Deli's mix qualified for the next round at Surface, so you can see them again on 4th May, when they play the stage 2 event, in Birmingham.

The Mercure Hotel, Leicester

Music played a key role in an afternoon conference-style event, with an award-winning pianist and songs from Leicester's Hannah B.

Had this event just been about presenting the results of a survey of corporate management, it would have been slightly less than boring. What stood out about the people behind iGen3 was their ability to think outside of the box. Having been to several conferences about corporate management, I was in for a surprise. The event was lively, engaging and full of surprises.

Like, Blake Brandes, from the USA, who demonstrated his considerable skills at beatboxing. Like Serbian pianist Marija Andjic whose delightful set of pieces by Debussy and de Falla were played with exquisite execution. Like the New York spoken word poet Joshua Bennett, whose poem about his dead, autistic brother was both moving and inspirational. Like Hannah B, Leicester's rising star of the vocal scene, who performed a set of her very enjoyable songs. An afternoon with a message, in which art brought meaning to management.

Read more on this in our Arts News section.

Thursday 1st March, The Donkey

Sum it up in one word - astonishing. On stage were two musicians: Jonny Gavin and Adam Rowley, playing as the acoustic duo Demons of Ruby Mae.

What hits you about about this act is Jonny's rich, powerful voice. This guy knows how to sing - would be an understatement. I have seen dozens of local male singers, this year alone, but few of them have reached his standard of vocalisation. Jonny has a simply astounding voice and he knows how to use it.

The pair opened their set with their song The Boy Who Cried Wolf, a ballad of mesmerising colour and mood. With poetic lyrics that conjured up vivid images, Jonny delivered the piece with crystal clear articulation. 'Beware the demons/they will fill your soul'. A silence fell over the normally noisy room. Pints got put down and the small talk subsided as everyone's attention was riveted to the stage.

Adam's keyboard accompaniment perfectly complemented the vocal line. As they worked through their set of five songs, the pair changed instruments, Jonny singing some numbers with a guitar and some without, Adam playing keyboard or guitar.

After the opening aria, Jonny delivered a quirky piece - Sugar Plumb Fairy - a quiet, softer song, atmospheric with a bluesy feel. Brief but delightful.

By the River, a charmingly folky tune with plenty of vivid imagery, told a story about a dream, emotional and moody, with delicate guitar work in the background.

An accomplished song writer and lyricist, Jonny Gavin has penned some of the most outstanding songs In our locality, whether for his band The Chairmen and now with Demons of Ruby Mae. He demonstrated tonight his considerable abilities as a singer. The set ended to rapturous applause.

A superb performance.

Coming on stage later in the evening was one of Leicester's celebrated groups. Dawson Smith and The Exiles played as a three piece ensemble tonight. Dawson Smith's name is also associated with Dawson and the Dissenters, whose performance, at their album launched recently, packed out one of our local venues.

Several had daffodils pinned to their coats in celebration of St. David, the patron saint of Wales, whose day it was. So, in honour of this tradition, the group played Welsh folk songs, many of them written and composed by Dawson Smith.

Their first song looked back to the uprising of 1831 when Dic Penderyn was wrongly hanged, it is said, for leading the rebellion. The trio played with a real passion for the music and it is always pleasing to hear traditional folk for a change.

Some of the songs came from Dawson's collaboration with Welsh novelist Alexander Cordell, author of the acclaimed Rape of the Fair Country. The third song, for example, was about the Chartist March of 1839, a vibrant and upbeat song in which all three musicians contributed to the vocals, backed by the sounds of the guitar and mandolin.

Thoroughly enjoyable.

Dawson Smith's web site

February

Tuesday 28th February, The Musician

Electro-rock night at the Musician with three very good bands and a full house of fans.

Here at artsIn, we are great fans of Leicester band Raptusound - it's why we made them our Band of the Month in February this year. Tonight they reassured us that we had done the right thing, with a superb performance of their exciting songs. The sound system was first class and we could hear all the tightly blended harmonies, from the suitably feverish first song through to their climactic last ballad. Banging beats threaded with scintillating keyboard electro layers accompanied Chris Brown's power-laden vocals. Not to mention Jack Liquorish's fingers, which were pretty busy, working the strings of his bass. Standing on stage, the three string players looked as cool as cucumbers, as they fired out their set of rocket-fuelled tracks. Flowing melodic lines from the vocals, crashing drum beats, and thrilling dynamics to the tunes - it was a masterful performance.

Another of our favourite bands Shortwave Fade delivered a set of smoothly controlled songs shot through with deliciously blended harmonies. Mixing club level electro samples with their instrumentals, they plied the room with their complex but compelling songs, demonstrating their considerable expertise in picking just the right rhythms and sounds to mix a really intoxicating musical experience. Gliding melodies collided with infectious beats and catchy hooks. Wonderful.

Nottingham's Spotlight Kid has been going for two years in their present incarnation and - apart from an appearance at the Summer Sundae festival - this was their first venue gig in Leicester. After an expansive symphonic opening, the band broke into a blaze of infectious beats and strobe lighting. They rounded off the electro-rock theme of the night with a brilliant set of auditory fireworks.

Their music was startlingly different from the previous two acts, having a richly blended and quite unusual sound, with its tantilising vocal layer, ably delivered by the female vocalist (Katty Heath), beautifully blended with the vocals of the guitarist (Rob McCleary). Driving beats and sweeping melodies, with fulsome thrashing rhythms, swept off the stage they worked through the relentless dynamics of their tunes. With an almost Brucknerian level of intensity, they painted mountainous landscapes of musical imagery. Describing their style as 'shoegaze, dream pop, fuzz', I felt I was in the presence of a band that are heading for the top of their tree. Exhilarating.

A night of musical brilliance at the Musician, made all the more enjoyable by the superb PA.

Raptusound | Shortwave Fade | Spotlight kid

Sunday 26th February

The Shed

Singer Siobhan Mazzei took to the stage tonight and delivered a festival quality set for her Glastonbudget audition. Her powerful voice and ear pleasing songs went down well with the audience and she proved, once again, that she is in the premier league of local female singers. Siobhan performed at the obsUnplugged at the Musician on 6th January.

Four piece rock band Kickstarter put on a high-energy performance, making some really great sounds. Combing rock/metal and hip-hop rhythms into an intoxicating cocktail of musical delights, the lead singer (Laurence Ayeni) did some acrobatic moves on stage to back his fast-paced rap vocals and the drummer (Eliot Curtis) won a gold medal - he could easily win a place in the England Drumming Team - for his efforts on the skins. Good team work from the whole band and a delightfully fresh and different style of music make their appearance the highlight of the night. Exhilarating.

Kickstarter

The SoundHouse

It's always good to see successful bands including Leicester in their tour itineraries Round at the SoundHouse, a big crowd had gathered for a second appearance of Kids Can't Fly. The six piece band included a sax player and trumpeter alongside their two frontline vocalists. Thickly packed fans gathered in front of the stage to see this massively pumping performance. They played at the Southampton Street venue before - on 28th September 2010. Their blend of pop-punk meets ska songs were delivered with exuberant quantities of fizz and sparkle. Pit circles formed in the crowd as fans moshed out to the adrenaline dripping beats. Good sounds with pleasing vocal layers, the fulsome augmentation of the brass section and thrilling rhythms made this a set to remember.

The show was headlined by The First, who pushed out some ear-lickingly good songs. With their shouty vocals and energetic stage presence, they came from the Norfolk/Cambridgeshire border to play here in Leicester. Previously supporting the likes of Gallows, Bring Me The Horizon and Wheatus, this big time group brought the evening to a resounding conclusion.

Kids Can't Fly | The First

Friday 24th February

The Music Cafe

We attended the Final of the music competition NXLevel, which featured a line-up of top local music artists. Read our report.

The Soundhouse

Living Mystery, the Furies and Citizen Smith supported Scholars. Read the review in our Gigs Reviews section.

Thursday 23rd February, The SoundHouse

Another really good night at the SoundHouse. A line-up of good bands playing enjoyable music to a crowd of people who enjoyed themselves a lot.

Some fine vocals were delivered by Liesel Hausmann of Ashby band The Dandy Lions. Their set of well known covers included quite a few choice songs that everyone knew, including House of the Rising Sun, originally by The Animals, and Ain't No Sunshine by Bill Withers.

The lead vocals were good and small the acoustic group put some vibrant sounds behind them. A good start to the evening. A really nice band playing well enjoyable music.

The musical bonanza continued with The Concrete Kisses. The four piece put out a set of vibrant songs with strong vocals from the lead singer Tom backed by Max on guitar, giving the room a set of original songs that went down well with the crowd. This group from Leicester has been playing for about three months.

The Fores I have seen a few times recently. They are getting a reputation now for their compelling rock anthems led by the power vocals of lead singer Jamie Burgess, back with driving rhythms from the rest of the band.

They delivered some beltin' tunes, sounding a little like Oasis's ballady songs. I particularly liked their Eye of the Storm, which you can hear on the band's ReverbNation page. A tight performance delivered with 100% commitment.

The headliners of tonight's show took to the stage. The Hot Frolics are a new band from Ashby de la Zouch. They are a great band to watch ... four individuals working closely together a team but each one a distinct individual doing his own thing on the stage and all looking like they totally engaged with the music.

Lead singer Stephen Marsden has a great presence, watching the crowd and responding to them, he knows how to be in touch with the fans. A look of intense awareness and a great voice which he knows how to use to good effect, he is an amazing artist.

The band delivered a coach load of fans into the SoundHouse for this, their launch event in Leicester. The fans joined in with the shouty choruses which added a big dollop of resonance to the set. Lots of bouncy songs, they were a headline level band and got a strong response from the room including a demand for an encore.

Stephen stepped off the stage to sing to his admiring fans face to face. The music was tuneful and compelling and the fans were eager to join in with the choruses. Stephen's beady eyes were checking out the reactions of those around him, picking up the vibes from the audience members and responding to them.

The whole set was a superb performance and at the end, the crowd started to chant "We want more, we want more", so another song came on, to cheers from the crowd, despite the coach driver outside looking menacingly at his watch!

So, The Hot Frolics - a band with real sparkle - we will want to see a lot more of them. Hot Frolics "hot property" as they say. Much better than that other Ashby band, the Young something or others.

stephen marsden

One good night at the SoundHouse. Long may she reign and God bless all who sing in her.

See them on Facebook: The Dandy Lions | The Concrete Kisses | The Hot Frolics

The Fores are on ReverbNation

Saturday 18th February, The Shed

Part 1

I compered the young bands matinee. Before it started artsIn Productions ran a workshop for the band members present. It covered

How to build up a fan base
How to get bookings for your band
How to publicise your band

Members of other bands were also there to share their experiences. Among them was Matt Fraine from The Unknown Bullet. Dawn Tarr gave her views as a member of the The Shed's management team. Jed Spittle, from The Manic Music Group was there as an industry expert working with young artists from his base in Phoenix Square.

It was a lively and interesting half hour and artsIn hopes to put on another event at the next young bands matinee day on Saturday 7th April.

More information is available from the artsIn Productions web site.

After the workshop, bands took to the stage for a matinee show; the lineup included singer Charlie, duo Anna and Arron, rapper Jonezy with bands Second to None, The Wright Eyes, Sink the Galleon.

Part 2

Music First Promotions, in association with artsIn Productions, ran the first of its series Singers of Distinction, featuring four acoustic soloists whose work is of a high standard.

Liz Marriott gave us a great set of songs. Using her strong and distinctive voice very effectively, she delivered her set with verve, singing her own songs and some covers. Her chirpy personality gave vitality to her performance. A very likeable artist with a fine voice and plenty of style.

Popular cover songs came in a non-stop flow from the celebrated Daz Tonge. Daz knows hundreds of famous tunes and can deliver a stream of them, one after another. He got the audience joining in for a few of them, too.

Lead singer of Ashby band The Hot Frolics, Stephen Marsden put on a highly entertaining set, displaying his aptitude for comic chat alongside his considerable vocal abilities. Between the songs he talked to the audience and kept them laughing, while engaging them in some fine singing, as he delivered both his own songs and some well known covers. An accomplished singer and extraordinarily good performer, his set was excellent.

Up and coming singer, songwriter Prash Gor delivered a set of his own original songs. Having made a considerable impact at the obsUnplugged shows recently, he demonstrated again tonight that he is a distinguished young vocalist with considerable abilities. He is proving to be an exciting entrant to Leicester's line-up of vocalists.

It was a very enjoyable night with a nice atmosphere and it was good to see the performers sticking around for the night.

Photos from the night are on Music First Promotion's Facebook page.

Friday 17th February

The Musician

It is possible to go out, in Leicester, and have a really good night at a rock gig. Let's take tonight as an example.

The venue was good. I like the Musician; it's a venue with a nice atmosphere. As I once wrote: the room shows love and dedication. The walls are festooned with framed posters and photographs of the acts that have played there. One wall has a mural depicting all of the great and iconic rock stars of age. They serve real ale. There is usually somewhere comfortable to sit down if you want a break from moshing at the front. The vast majority of bands and singers have told me that the sound was excellent. "I could really hear myself on the stage", is a frequently heard comment from artists after they have played.

The company was good. I noticed that the fair-sized crowd was made up of groups of mates who were greeting each other with hugs and handshakes as they arrived. Guys were there with their girlfriends, having a quick snog now and again. Knots of comrades were gathering for a chat between acts. Dads were there with their teenage kids. Family members of all ages had turned up to see their sons on the stage. I met loads of people I had not seen for ages. I met people who had not seen me for ages ("Do you remember me? I used to be in a band ..."). It was warm, friendly and sociable occasion.

The bands were good. On stage tonight were two bands. Both of them at the top of their tree. Us Wolves is a band I have followed ever since they played their first gig. It is a band I particularly like. That enthusiasm stems from two things: their songs and their musical abilities. James (techno) Ferraby is a particularly good singer. Ok we had a bit of a joke about him being Leicester's answer to Gary Barlow! He is a very able vocalist; he has a fine voice and knows what to do with it. Now the band also has Josephine Ellul who has recently replaced Lawrence Bywater on the keys and backing vocs. Jo is also a very fine singer and at the artsIn Christmas show performed a duo set with James that was completely delightful. They have beautifully blended voices and together add an ear-pleasing vocal layer to the band. The rest of members are quality musicians ... Ben Mountford on bass and Elliott Jenkins on drums. What stands out most, however, is the ability of this group to write incredibly good songs. Memorable melodies powered by compelling beats. An extraordinarily good band.

Another act I have followed, almost since the word go, is Calder McLaughlan. Tonight he was on stage with his band. One face on the stage I immediately recognised was Benn Hartmann; Dan monk was on bass and Josh Bugden was on drums. Calder has one of those voices that are instantly recognisable, with its gravelly texture and amazing strength. He demonstrated tonight that he is not only a master of the moody ballad but also of the resonating rhythm. His hour and half long set was a tour de force of his extensive back catalogue of original songs. He is one singer that I have followed since he arrived in Leicester from his native Doncaster. He is a pro level singer. One of the more distinguished songwriters around this area. Now with a group of skilled musos on stage with him I can see him going far. Very far. Calder has a presence when he is in front a mic that few others can equal. His songs have a popular appeal, as we saw from the reaction of the audience he had attracted tonight. A thoroughly enjoyable night of top class music.

So, those who like to winge and whine about Leicester's live music scene not being very good ... all I can say is "You must be going to the wrong gigs."

Photography: Scott Choucino | Us Wolves on Facebook | Calder McLaughlin on Facebook |

The Donkey

Free control's superb performance at the Donkey is reported on by Peter Coombs in our Gig Reviews section.

Tuesday 14th February, Olive's Bar

Someone asked me recently "What do you do on your nights off? When you're not out reviewing gigs?" I said: "I go to see bands!". It's sad I know. But, hey there are some bands I just cannot miss. Arms yesterday, Midnight tonight.

So, I made by way over to Olive's in Queens Road to see Midnight Wire. Why? Because I like their music. I think they have written some of the best popular rock songs of last year ... and they are still churning them out.

Olive's is small but I always seem to enjoy myself there. It's got atmosphere. It can be cramped but the drinks are cheap. Tonight a pretty big crowd of fans squeezed into the space in front of the little stage area.

We were treated to a support slot from Isle of Wight band Yours & Mine. Our local lads went over to play with them on the Island last year and now, in Leicester for the first time, they are returning the favour.

The trio from the Solent gave us a set of enjoyable, bouncy, popular melodies. I was told they are playing at IOW festival. They have toured with Midnight Wire, so the two bands are used to playing with each other. So, good music, a lead vocalist, Marc, with a nice voice and some backing vocals from the bassist Simo, with drums by Nate. All good.

Midnight Wire came on. In front of them a packed crowd of happy faces. They opened with their song Honey. With a tantalising guitar intro and a memorable melodic line, it was a song that could spin round in your head long after the gig; had they not gone on to play all their other hit songs. Coming Clean, Oh Lola, New York City Lies, Excuses, Running Forever - almost too many to remember! These guys are seriously good at composing catchy songs.

Some industry bloke came up to me afterwards and said "That song New York City - they could make a really big hit with that." I noticed that the audience was peppered with the rockerati - quite a few musicians from other local bands were there to enjoy the fun and a few industry bods.

It was a great night out. I got asked "who do they sound like?" Easy. "They sound like Midnight Wire". It's an unmistakable sound. The densely packed throng were trying to dance as they got the infectiously driving rhythms but there wasn't a lot of room to do more than jig up and down.

Alex looked like the Dulux Dog, his now quite long hair falling over his eyes. The chirpy chappy got the songs out despite having a nasty bout of tonsilitis Chris, always calm and controlled. Arjun, likewise, doing the business on the bass. Nik at the back, shattering the skins.

I checked out their tour itinerary. Almost a working guide to England's small venues, I noticed they had managed to bag a slot at the iconic 100 club in London. Wow! How did they do that?

A pretty fine night out.

Yours & Mine's bandpage on Facebook.

Midnight Wire's bandpage on Facebook. | More photos on Facebook

Monday 13th February, The Shed

There was a rumour going round that I live at The Shed. I can see where it comes from. Big night out tonight. Been waiting for this one for some time - like, ever since they announced it. AoA night. Yes!

I also liked the support slots. One Day Elliott came all the way from Maidstone in Kent to energise the room with a great set of pop-punk songs and what a great performance. Loved it. One Day Elliott

Lecarla had come up from the Milton Keynes area and with Lizzy Dent on the lead vocals, they delivered a pretty fine set of rocking, ear-licking songs. Lecarla

So yea, winning support slots, but the time arrived for the headline slot. The mighty Arms of Atlas. One of my favourite Leicester bands. When they get up on stage they put on a show. They tear up and stage and rock. It's nothing if not "unadulterated." What you get is the undownloable total experience. They delivered a stadium-level performance, even in the intimate surroundings of the Shed. A packed room went crazy for them. A thick pack of moshing bodies and upraised arms. It was as sweaty as you would expect it to be. Showers of sparks from the stage. Massively big sounds. The ultimate rock machine. Wow, what a night.

Arms of Atlas was our band of the month for January 2012 | AoA on Facebook |

Friday 10th February, The Shed

I seem to be spending time at the Shed a lot these days. Tonight I saw one of the heats in the I Wanna Be a Rockstar competition series. The show was opened by the incredible Daz Tonge, the human karaoke. Half an hour of non-stop songs we all know. Amazing. What a great songsmith. Not part of the competition, he was performing the guest warm-up slot.

Son of Glenn - a young band from that cradle of rock which is Coalville - brought a big crowd of kids to support them. The four piece worked up a frenzied set of pop-punk songs which they delivered with teen spirit gusto. The lead vocalist, Josh Oakley, did a good job of working the crowd. Sparkling with energy and most entertaining. Three of them contributed to the vocals. Stage presence and compelling tunes. Pretty good stuff really.

By way of sheer contrast, Jane Kidder brought her two band members on stage for a session of her original and stylish musical marshmallows. The uber-cool Jane was backed by her amazing guitarist, Dan Kiddder, and perky drummer, Chris Kidder, and together they delivered a set of different musical sweets. An acquired taste, some might say, but I seem to have acquired it. See The Jane Kidder Band on Facebook.

A band with the unlikely name of Flying Kangaroo Alliance played next. The quartet launched into their first song and it was the opening chords that caught my attention. A lot of churning guitar chords followed to back the female lead singer, Meri Everitt. Could have done with some more backing vocals. I always say that. Their song Prince of Darkness was held up to be their take on heavy metal. Interesting. A languid number that was about as metal as a strip of plastic. Even so, not a bad piece in its own right. Flying Kangaroo Alliance on FB

The night ended with the theatrical performance of BB Blackdog. A veteran Steampunk band, with an international status, their act was accompanied by a sort of a female belly dancer who proceeded to play out some remarkable choreographics in front of the stage. Those near the front were so engrossed in the panto going on there, that we hardly noticed much of the music. The three guys on the stage had their show stolen by the exotically attired dancer. They said this was the first time they had played in Leicester. An astonishing piece of rock theatre. Surpising to see them at the Shed but then that's the Shed for you. BB Blackdog

Saturday 4th February, The Shed

On my way to a late night comedy show, trudging through the falling snow, I stopped off at The Shed for a hot toddy and saw some really good bands.

Teeny boppers Centre Excuse, a three piece from Empingham (don't ask, I don't know either) put on a really good set of their bouncy electro pop-punk numbers. Even though there was no bass player (who needs them anyway?), they gave the crowd half an hour of energetic songs: vigorous, Exit Avenue-esq, enjoyable. Teddy Lewis pumped out some good vocals and guitarist Jamie Rush did some Olympic-level jumps. All good stuff.

Check out Centre Excuse

The stars of the night in my view were Dirty Jack. The quintet of talented rockers from Coalville pumped out a set of high-octane rock tunes with impressively strong vocals from lead singer Olly Harris. Nicely orchestrated songs, well rounded melodies and scintillating guitar flourishes produced a set of magnificent music. Well worth listening to, they warmed up a freezingly cold night.

Dirty Jack on Facebook

The night was put on by the Majick Music Group, a Midlands-based organisation that puts on gigs and provides a range of services for bands and venues.

The Majick Music web site

Friday 3rd February, The Musician

A thumpingly good night of rock at the Muso. Wave of Brine, Motherlode and the mighty Hell's Addiction delivered a resounding good night of music.

See our full review in the Gig Reviews section.

January

Saturday 28th January, The Shed

First Music Promotions invited me down to join the judges in their first round heat of the I Wanna be a RockStar competition. A pretty good lineup of bands took to the stage: The Armson Blues Band featured the legendary Chris Armson, Stephen Marsden from The Hot Frolicks did a set of top notch solo songs, Blunderbuster tore up the stage, One Suspicious Monkey wow'd the crowd and The Fores were exceptionally good at delivering energising rock songs.

All in all a good night attended by a fair sized crowd.

News about the I Wanna be a Rock Star shows.

Friday 27th January, The Shed

SlamDoubt, Bash:Roland, Event Horses and Fightback were on stage for a night of punk; read Peter Coombs report in our Gig Reviews section.

Thursday 29th January, The Firebug

A large crowd gathered to hear Little Night Terrors, Mark Elliott and the Tea Leaves. Read about it in our Gigs Reviews Section.

Other pages you might like:

Our guide to rock music pages on artsIn

Rock band news

Our list of local bands