I was impressed when I saw DEADLETTER at Great Eastern and a number of pals joined me in expecting something special again. We were not disappointed! From Yorkshire via London, now a 6 piece outfit, they have honed their act by constant gigging and are in full control of their music …and their audience, who sang along and answered all the calls and moves. Including all kneeling down at the point Zac descended to the floor in the audience!
Their music is a cool variation on standard 20s post-punk … intense and moody, with serious messages, light on melody but heavy with shouty slogans. Impressive amount of energy from the stage and in the room. We all enjoyed greatly!.
I was blown away by Young Fathers at their album launch gig back in February but this was an altogether bigger affair with extra drummer and singers on the big stage in the big hall with the big home town crowd. And I think the audience were really impressed and supportive of their home town champions! First of two sell out nights at the Usher Hall.
And though I loved the performance and the music, as often at the Usher Hall, the boomy, overly subby sound interfered with enjoyment for much of the set ‘til improved a bit half way through. Odd how joyful the audience can get dancing to their stirring songs, yet the guys still keep up the serious, intense looks. I think they could spare the odd extra smile for a special occasion? Still, proud of their achievements and brilliant music.
The very momentous occasion of my wife Karen Glen’s retirement from her role as Building Manager for the Scottish Supreme Courts and Parliament House. A lovely reception was held in the historic Parliament Hall, the most special part of the building complex Karen has been taking great care of for nearly all of her 29 years in the Scottish Courts Service.
We were delighted to see so many of her colleagues, family and good friends there to wish her good luck in retirement. And what an extra special treat it was to be entertained by 4 songs from the wonderful Sing In the City Aw Blacks choir. Thanks to all the singers and particularly to Kirsty Baird and Annette Hanley for arranging a brilliant performance in such a spectacular setting. Their set was greatly enjoyed by all and much appreciated by Karen and I.
Thanks also to Lord Fairley and Admin Unit staff for preparing and delivering such a thorough and heartfelt speech, detailing Karen’s career and thanking her for so many years of dedicated service. Thanks also to all who were so kind and generous with their presents to Karen and to all the catering staff. We are very grateful for a send off never to be forgotten.
I’ve seen Do Nothing a couple of times before and really like their sardonic and more interesting take instead of the myriad cliched indie/post-punk bands out there. Not so sure about new album songs but live they are always a great experience. And a packed and boiling hot Sneaky Pete’s crowd, like me, thought they were worthy of much laudation!
Love Brian Christinzio and his awesome band. Always catch him when in Edinburgh and not disappointed this time too. He’s building up a following thanks to more exposure, lots of 6 music types here including us, and is now getting the recognition and success his clever songs and powerful performances deserve.
I think everyone should experience the boundless energy and enthusiasm of Amyl & The Sniffers at least once! I love their attitude and Amy’s livewire, non-stop bouncing, as well as smart lyrics and audience engagement.
I like a bit of straight up punk too, but this set is a bit limited and samey to my mind. Felt longer than it actually was, though a packed, sweaty crowd went understandably mental. So, once is enough for me!
Support band Cable Ties were great, I enjoyed them the most, must see again.
Hard to believe Devo are still doing it, let alone as brilliantly as they did tonight given their very advanced years. This is the last ever tour, celebrating 50 years of ‘de-evolution’. Ticket prices were insane, which explained the half full venue, but I just had to go. And I’m so glad I did. All the classics and my favourite songs delivered with just as much quality and energy as ever, especially by stalwarts Mark, Gerry and Bob 1. How do they do it? Well done spud boys, enjoy your retirement!
My 10th time seeing the brilliant Klara & Johanna, and though I saw effectively the same show late last year, I just had to catch them in Edinburgh again.