MUSIC

Louisiana (Sat 24 Sept) Following the first yelpy, frantic opening track by Live Wire, there’s a definite influence that won’t allow a finger to be placed upon it. That is until the lead singer announces, “This next one’s a cover of Green Day. It’s called ‘Basket Case’.” Bing! There it is. The rest of the set is basically covers and, as such, very difficult to review. They can play, the singer has a decent enough voice, but, really, ‘Year 3000’ by Busted doesn’t belong in a local institution like the Louis. The (presumably) ironic devil horns on the guitar were a nice touch though.

Natural Tendency kick off in spectacular fashion, frontman Ed Taylor authoritatively taking ownership of the stage and injecting some much-needed energy into the unusually stoic crowd. Musically they toughen things up, an American skater rock aesthetic with glam sensibilities, enjoyable synth noises flying about all over the place. In fact, as the gig progresses, the glam-ness becomes more apparent, almost verging at times on stage-show theatricalism, particularly with the soaring vocals. It’s an odd combo which doesn’t work all the time, but when it does they really fly. In fact, the more theatrical the better.

Social Flatline offer a more straight-up sound – driving but poppy, toying with a harder sound but never really getting there. It’s a bit like skinny dipping with your pants on – still good fun but ultimately unrewarding, because it could have been more. Think Sum-41 or Blink 182. Not that they don’t have moments: ‘4309’ and ‘Forget’ offer a glimpse of a more mature and satisfying direction, but they fall back into the standard tempo and formula after promising openings. Again, covers pepper the set – The Rembrandts (yes, the ‘Friends’ theme tune), the Wurzels (something about a combine harvester) and The Who (‘My Generation’). Not sure if it’s some sort of inherited reverence but The Who should really remain untouched. Still, they’re clearly confident enough to tackle it. and if personality gets you anywhere in this game, they should go far. (Stuart Roberts)

Coyright Stuart Roberts 2011