Last Man Standing, Helminthian, Sirenide, Scratchplate, Rench, 91 Pieces - 12th January 2007
Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Live music returned to the Level 2 stage tonight with the reappearance (and possible farewell?) of the popular young four piece Last Man Standing, who are performing here for the first time since last June after which time the band splintered in different directions. In front of a capacity crown they and their guests are a perfect tonic for the January blues. In fact, it is a hectic night for LMS guitarist Mash who, we well as playing, is also co-promoter and assistant Sound Engineer! Busy lad...
The predominant sound of Last Man Standing as always proved to be the jumping ska beat which they display in opening song 'Kicking Pigeons'. Thankfully no RSPCA officials are present to witness this exuberate singalong (Shouldn't that be RSPB officials? - Ed) which the boys also reprise for an encore. They keep the impetus going throughout their elongated twelve song set. A real lesson is staying power allied to their usual (and at times cheeky) style, which even features a little rap from Mash to change the mood!
Supporting and displaying plenty of 'teen spirit' are, in reverse order, Helminthian who exude tons of ire. This five piece metal band have their foot firmly on the accelerator pedal and they power out some heavy tunes. With an imaginative and unusual opening the rest of the set is strong and forcibly performed. It is most definitely to be filed under 'not for the faint hearted'! Their supporters simply worshipped all of Helminthians sweat.
Sirenide are a band I have consistently eulogised and as per usual their display tonight is pristinely polished playing with a buoyant attack and a gloss sheen of professionalism. There was simply such a freeflowing creative edge to their collection of songs.
Tonight's gig also featured Scratchplate, whose charismatic frontman Robbie Miller exudes such total confidence with his and the bands performance. With their 'Lovestruck' EP to flog as well, a certain Del-Boy Trotter could not have done better.
Two young local bands opened the evening. Making their debut performance was Rench, consisting of Andy Green (bass), Mitch Rayner (vocals / guitar), Rozzy (guitar / vocals) and Tom Graham (drums). A competent and enjoyable set which featured a classy guitar solo in 'Act Your Age' and a perfect 'Miss Perfect' to close with.
Except for a diabolically awful sub-karaoke version of 'God Save the Queen', three piece punks 91 Pieces seem to be gaining some stage confidence. These smiling punks hit the mark with 'Asbo' which they spat out with a fair degree of menace. A heartening display capping a top evening and for just four quid the night was certainly good value for money.