Kids Picked Last + The Demi Massacre + Shadow Factory + Attika - 28th August 2009
Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Sometimes we don't fully appreciate people until they are not around. This thought sprung to mind tonight halfway through tonights gig. Of all the movers and shakers etc etc on the local music scene, Mr Keith Pickering must be one of the most knowledgable and hard working individuals. Every young music fan or musician knows 'Keef'. So the desperate question to the young metal folks of Bedford is why weren't you here supporting the gig? For a gentleman that has helped so many young bands with both gigs and sound advice, payback please!
This evening is a reward for all the bands who are from the Thursday showcase evenings in the bar. However, what any gig needs is people, plenty of them, to create a blinding atmosphere. Unfortunately, this Bedford Alternative Music night suffers sorely because there is no-one here. A paltry turnout that is the complete opposite to last weeks emo/post-hardcore gig. Perhaps that is where the interest of Bedford's youth lies because, judging by tonight, it seems as though rock and metal is a total turn off.
Admittedly, opening band Kids Picked Last are not a personal favourite. Surely, however, they must have some mates or family who could have given some sort of moral support. This gripe would apply to all the bands involved this evening. A trance electronic ensemble who should ignite any youngsters true feeling for the live experience. Perhaps at the moment things have changed. The incessant garbage that is fed through reality TV programmes has quashed the hunger of a live performance that the citizens of an older generation thrived and seized upon. Live music means a buzz, a natural high. Why do Bedford's youngsters not have that desire? Its perhaps apparent when you wander around the streets of this town and hear the awful karaoke and the mainstream sounds that emanate from most local public entertainment establishments.
The Demi Massacre may possess such a frail looking frontman, but hey, what a pair of lungs. This is a man who could literally shout for England.
A huge shout out for Luton's Shadow Factory who, early on in their set, pull out "Never Surrender" to emphasize a semi stadium rock song. Their demeanour and playing ability is, once again, spot on, but euphemistically "Desperate Cry" is perhaps the best song for the evening. High endeavour, but no one here.
Attika rise to the occasion, enjoying the rare spotlight on level 2. As they perform "Now is the Time", the vibes are good. This is possibly the band's highlight. Although in this cricketing summer, "Ashes to Ashes" is so appropriate and is finely performed. So there you have it, Four great bands playing their own penned songs in front of next to no one. Oh dear. I think tonight, this just sums up the town of Bedford, but thanks Keef for trying.