Bands from Stevenage and the Letchworth Highfield Rockschools performed at an end of term gig at Club 85 Hitchin.
The showcase was probably the best attended yet, and featured a record 6 bands on show, all are currently being mentored by HMS staff Oliver Barton, Phil Marriott and Lynsey Nott.
First up were Phil Marriott’s new Highfield band Mutiny, who kicked things off with a few high energy numbers, including a Nirvana cover, and featured some Impressive lead guitar and vocals and strong grooves from the rhythm section. Would be good to hear them play a longer set.
Next up, Stevenage’s own Black Halo, who featured some promising precise simple lead guitar from stage right, and some ultra tight reggae influenced lines from their duffle-coated bass player.
3rd on the bill Chrome had brought their sizeable fanbase with them, and played a great set with some promising lead guitar work and a confident stage presence. We particularly like their use of space, with the guitarists not doubling up, but playing complementary lines, and even(!) not both playing all the time. Grooved nicely.
Another Stevenage band, The Indecisives made a welcome return to the stage and their experience showed in their presentation and introductions. They’ve developed a heavier sound since last seen, but still support the singer’s voice effectively. Particularly liked some of the Blondieesque guitar riffs in Just Tonight.
Stand out band for the night for me was the excellent Easy Lies, fronted by James Sherwood. Again from the Highfield Rockschool, their playing was light, imaginative and fluid and counterpointed James’s voice very well. There is a hint of The Frames in James’s songwriting, (no bad thing!), but also a strong originality. Looking forward to hearing more from this band.
Top of the bill, another Highfield Rockschool band, Stereo Breakout, who have honed and tightened their sound by playing regularly including at our Songwriter Showcase at Rhythms of the World in Summer 2011, and at the ROTW showcase in London in November. They’re beginning to develop a bit of light and shade to complement the full-on drums-fest that works so well in bigger venues, and if the match this with building tension and release, they’ll continue going from strength to strength.
As ever, the Club made everyone very welcome and Matt on sound and Matt on stage management helped everything go with a swing.
Next Club 85 gig is pencilled in for Monday March 26 th, and we’re hoing to develop a development committee of young people to help promote and run it. Get in touch with Chris on 01438 202806 if you’re interested. We’re particularly keen to hear from young people who might be interested in compering or reviewing the next show.
Big thanks also to the Rockschool tutors, Oliver , Lynsey and Phil, and to Chris Strong for coordinating with the venue, and tutors and organising gear and publicity!
