Recent Reviews:

20.06.09 - >In Remission + Rogue Radio + The Folk'n'Ska Souls + Betaboy + Two Chord Coward - by Martin Stapleton
These days young people sometimes get a bad reputation in the media, often accused of being lazy and causing trouble at every opportunity. However, tonight at Esquires the warm and compassionate side of the younger generation shone through with total pride and dedication to the cause...(Read More...)

12.06.09 - >Exit Avenue + Thumbelinas + Amy Leeder + Craig Shields - by Martin Stapleton
Tonight, Esquires threw open it's mighty doors to none other than the British Broadcasting Corporation, as BBC Three Counties radio hosted an "Introducing" evening...(Read More...)

06.06.09 - >The UK Subs + Resistance 77 + The Billy Hunts + Fergus - by Martin Stapleton
Although Charlie may be close to, or actually has, OAP status, his boundless energy and determination to recreate the seventies punk scene shows no sign of decreasing...(Read More...)

05.06.09 - >The Ron Sayer Band + Horseman Shakes and the Drayman - by Martin Stapleton
I was somewhat disappointed and surprised that he did not make mention of the passing this week of the 'queen of the blues', Koko Taylor. This legendary Chicago lady died a couple of days ago aged 80. Blues devotees mourned her loss...(Read More...)

30.05.09 - >WolfLaw + The Beautiful Sleazy + The Smoking Hearts + Faith'n'Fury + Trash Monkey - by Martin Stapleton
For some obscure, or perhaps 'arty' reason, Shefford's "finest and furious punk'n'roll" exponents The Smoking Hearts decided to play their entire set in darkness...(Read More...)

29.05.09 - >Floors and Walls + Betaboy + LSD Blues + Tom Evans - by Martin Stapleton
Can I just make this heartfelt request. Concentrate on your strong points ie performing your songs, and leave the mindless chat for when you are on your mobile...(Read More...)

23.05.09 - >Tom Allalone and the 78s + Amy and the Integrals + The Friday Nights + The Delaneys + Hannah Estrada - by Martin Stapleton
A touch of hilarity does occur when Hannah introduces "We". It's written about her sister and it's not, she giggles, spelt with a double e, "not the urine wee"!...(Read More...)

22.05.09 - >The Bog Head + The Measure - by Martin Stapleton
A word of mention must be made of the sterling efforts of the DJ who worked purely and simply with vinyl. Old 45s with crackles and hisses blasting out of the twin speakers as he lovingly spends the whole evening selecting ska driven sounds working from two turntables...(Read More...)

16.05.09 - >Dissolved In + In Remission + Alias + Sevaloco - by Martin Stapleton
On the whole, the set is half an hour of inventive instrumentation, good arrangements and, above all, some top notch songwriting. They saved my evening...(Read More...)

08.05.09 - >Spit Like This + Showgirl Suicide + Speedshot + Graveline - by Martin Stapleton
The vocalist boldly announces that this song is dedicated to the one and only Jack Daniels. However, with none of the said bourbon around, he takes a large gulp of lager and proceeds to spray it across the sparse front row of people....(Read More...)

02.05.2009 - >Tinker Jack, Cherry Lee Mewis, Michael Green - by Martin Stapleton
For those people in Bedfordshire not aware of the awesome Cherry Lee Mewis, I have a simple question. Where have you been hiding for the past eighteen months?...(Read More...)

25.04.09 - >Rebelation + Smoke Like Fish + The Skalinkskis + Ruff Cutz + The Splitters + 3 Minute Warning + Near the Knuckle + Playing Away - by Martin Stapleton
It's either through excellent planning or sheer coincidence that todays Ska Explosion gig, overseen by Upbeat Promotions, comes exactly 30 years since 2 Tone arrived on an unsuspecting musical world...(Read More...)

24.04.09 - >Seven Caves + Sulfer + Thumbelinas + Rewriting Destiny + Spiked - by Martin Stapleton
Originally permeating as a raw punky sound, they now seem to be resurrecting the spirit of the early 90s alternative rock. Babes in Toyland Anybody?!?...(Read More...)

17.04.09 - >The Leisurely Gentlemen + The Jacks + Harlequin + White Cloud and Gunfire - by Martin Stapleton
Front women Evey is very sweet but oh so tiny, four foot nothing but her delivery is mighty and powerful...(Read More...)

12.04.09 - >Pearl Handled Revolver + Silver Brazilians + Amy Lee - by Martin Stapleton
Pearl Handled Revolver oblige with wave upon wave of a brew of such psychedelic potency. One of the guitarists sits cross-legged on the stage floor. Trance like, he plays almost hypnotically. At it's end the room erupts in joined applause. An epic song...(Read More...)

12.04.09 - >The Debt Collectors + Near the Knuckles + Playing Away - by Martin Stapleton
Easter Saturday in Danny's Bar had been pretty unspectacular. As per usual it rained solidly, with a journey to Frost Garden Centre or perhaps Ikea on some peoples must do list for the day. Stimulation for the music fans in Bedford came in the form of ska...(Read More...)

11.04.09 - >Fenix Fire + In Remission + Alias + Sever the Strings + Radiating Eyes (Acoustic Set) - by Martin Stapleton
Headliners Fenix Fire return with, thankfully, their bass player Johnny joining them this time. Its also his birthday, so the quartet are well up for a party....(Read More...)

04.04.09 - >Stray + Lost for Words - by Martin Stapleton
As promoter Rob Vernon explains in his introduction, this is all about 'rawk'! The hairy trio are all too happy to oblige on this second gig on their mini tour of three. They also have a new album "Valhalla" to showcase...(Read More...)

03.04.09 - >The Whybirds + Tinker Jack + Amy and the Integrals + Verity Sessions + Harriet Langley - by Martin Stapleton
Tonight is, I'm afraid, a most fatal combination. It's one's birthday (!), plus promoter The Little Red Roster has garnered together a most amazing local line up of my favourite artists...(Read More...)

02.04.09 - >Sever the Strings + Tombstone Bullets + Alias + Watch the Walls - by Martin Stapleton
In comparison to the previous two bands, Sever The Strings really struggle to interest me. They look as if they have arrived straight from the G20 demonstration in London...(Read More...)

27.03.09 - >Brigante + Bowfinger + The Escape + Chris Wright + Mr Barbs - by Martin Stapleton
Prior to their appearance tonight, Bowfinger's lovable vocalist Ed reflected on his band and Esquires in general. He told me how much they enjoyed playing here which, in various guises, amounts to some eighteen years...(Read More...)

20.03.09 - >Eyelash + Wolflaw + The Radiating Eyes + The Fabulous Weapon - by Martin Stapleton
At present, the male/female quartet are touring to promote their debut album "Recession". Sadly, it was truly savaged by journalist Camilla Pia in the NME where it earned a measly 2/10...(Read More...)

19.03.09 - >Playing Away + Watch the Walls + Fenix Fires - by Martin Stapleton
In true rock'n'roll style, the vocalist swigs nonchalantly from a bottle of Jamesons that's close at hand. He does, however, have a bottle of water as well...(Read More...)

07.03.09 - >Jynxt + Rogue Radio + Floors and Walls + Gun Crime - by Martin Stapleton
Esquires welcomed back some old friends of the venue as London band Jynxt return to renew old aquaintances, mainly due to their wide eyed rapping MC Blaine. All eyes used to focus on his escapades. However, tonight fellow singer and founder member Tally certainly takes all the delightful gasps...(Read More...)

06.03.09 - >John Otway + The Informers - by Martin Stapleton
I'm sure if you could take and mix the deoxyribonucleic acid of Billy Bragg, Iggy Pop and John Cleese it would probably create something akin to John Otway, whose appearance here at Esquires will live long in the memory...(Read More...)

28.02.09 - >Kilto Take + The Broadcast + Harlequin + David Lloyd + Daniela - by Martin Stapleton
On their previous performance Kilto Take threw some glowsticks to the audience for maximum participation. There is more of the same tonight, but with the added bonus of many Haribo sweets thrown by Mark...(Read More...)

27.02.09 - >The Foxes + Amy and the Integrals + The Delaneys + Matrix - by Martin Stapleton
A refreshing innocence, the set is a pure joy as they perforn songs about all things teenage, but delivered with so much maturity...(Read More...)

20.02.09 - >Ex-Nihilo + Scar My Eyes + Shogun + Killer Messiah - by Martin Stapleton
just when I thought it couldn't get any worse, totally out of the blue and probably for the first time, Shogun stopped trying to be clever and the result was simply stunning...(Read More...)

14.02.09 - >Slave to Nature + Abadden + Speedshot + Side of the Sky - by Martin Stapleton
It may have been St Valentine's day, but for the luvved up metal youngsters who turned up for tonight's Bedford Alternative Music gig, it was tinged with a fair degree of sadness...(Read More...)

07.02.09 - >Graveyard Johnnys + Shakeout + The Long Tall Texans - by Martin Stapleton
As I chatted to them after their performance, the trio revealed that people had mistakenly thought the band were called Tesco Value Brandy...(Read More...)

30.01.09 - Red Stripe Music Awards featuring Wolf Law + Tinker Jack + Kilto Take + Rogue Radio + The Nimblewits - by Martin Stapleton
With sponsorship tonight provided by a well known locally brewed lager, Sean asks "Do they do Red Stripe in bottles?". Cue the perfect singalong finale of "Swinging the bottle"...(Read More...)

25.01.09 - Sleipnir "Bloodbrothers" (CD Review) - by Steve Norman
The same goes for your mate who enjoys Franz Ferdinand – he’s not going to fancy taking on an epic plate of meat either, is he? He’d want a few carrots or some red cabbage to go with it, to keep his complicated fringe smooth and shiny.(Read More...)

24.01.2009 - Random Hand + Knockout + 91 Pieces + Minimal Damage + Playing Away - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight, for a change, they are casually attired and it's good to see them slowly growing in confidence. Sharing a stage with The Beat recently has obviously helped...(Read More...)

03.01.2009 - Horseman Shakes and the Drayman + Rogue Radio + The Van Cleef + Re-Writing Destiny + Verity Sessions - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A post-punk quartet something akin to Joy Division meet The Stooges on downers, plus a front man who makes Eddie Argos look static!! Except for their travelling support, most people attending look a little shell shocked at the sets end...(Read More...)

31.12.2008 - The Quireboys + Cutting Out - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
At the start, Spike tells us it is about his beloved Newcastle, but adds wryly that it could be about Bedford as he's spent so much time here...(Read More...)

27.12.08 - Captain Loveguns and the Tale Telling Dead Men + Evil Scarecrow - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
They then proceed to play the most metal track ever, which for those of you who don't know is ‘Theme from Thundercats’...(Read More...)

20.12.08 - Tinker Jack + Amy and the Integrals + Lydia Maddix + David Lloyd + The Nimblewits - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's very satisfying to see the progression that this band has made since their debut Esquires gig supporting Electric Soft Parade back in February 2007....(Read More...)

19.12.2008 - The Swamis + Pearl Handled Revolver + The Escape + Daniela - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Their nut crunching hooks vie for attention amongst the top-drawer lyrics. Judging by the performance tonight, it's fair to describe that these post-modern bohemians are still indeed top of their game...(Read More...)

13.12.08 - Dr Feelgood + The Fabulous Rockin' Blues Pimps - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With the nation seemingly gripped by ITV's X Factor grand final, Bedford Esquires thankfully kept music well and truly live. Keeping the feelgood factor in these difficult times are the legendary rhythm and blues quartet Dr Feelgood...(Read More...)

05.12.08 - The Measure + The Jacks + Pretty Little Mutiny + Echobox - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The Jacks are the hidden gold nugget in the line-up tonight. This Northampton quartet bring their freshly baked, and at times very tasty, indie rock cake to the level 2 table...(Read More...)

29.11.08 - The Beat + Rebelation + Playing Away - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The songs still remain fresh in the memory and everybody 'mouths along' to the big summer hit of 1980 "Mirror in the bathroom, Please talk free, The door is locked, Just you and me, Can I take you to a restaurant, Thats got glass tables, You can watch yourself, While you are eating"...(Read More...)

28.11.08 - DMS and the Kraze + Bowfinger + Sean Culture + Jess Stranger + Dave Spencer - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Although headlined by Essex boys DMS And The Kraze, it's the blistering performance by regular Esquires favourites Bowfinger that warms me up on this bitterly cold evening...(Read More...)

21.11.08 - Saving Aimee + Don Broco + None the Less + Side of the Sky + Showing Tonight - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Saving Aimee are at Esquires, headlining just a few short months after supporting the Shikari boys at London's Astoria. However, unfortunately, most of the local youngsters are long gone. Having overdosed on Don Broco, it must be kebab time! ...(Read More...)

15.11.08 - The Whybirds + Kilto Take + Suzuka + David Lloyd - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Wow! What a satisfying evening. Musical gratification indeed. A good sized crowd, technically gifted musicians performing an absolute abundance of enjoyable tunes. Proof that, in this reviewers opinion, going out in search for live music is quite possibly the secret to a happy and fruitful life...(Read More...)

14.11.08 - 999 + Reptilehause + The Bleach Boys - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Continuing their policy of bringing the best of old skool punk to Bedford, Upbeat Promotions tonight welcome another pioneering band of that time...(Read More...)

08.11.08 - Jynxt + Folk and Ska Souls - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The tremendous support they are given must be mentioned. Much as New Groove Formation seem to bring practically half of Ampthill with them, their 'junior' version are following in the same tracks...(Read More...)

07.11.08 - The Dilenquents + Slave to Nature + The Radiating Eyes + Abadden - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It is overall a thought provoking, hauntingly dark, wintery spine-chilling collection of songs. To be more precise, it's all folking perfect!...(Read More...)

01.11.08 - Oxjam - Look See Proof + Operahouse + The Guildean Gang + Yeltsin + The Culture - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Such a difference from their sold out Esquires shows of the past. The lads, as always, put a lot of effort into their performance, but it fails to inspire me...(Read More...)

31.10.08 - The Dilenquents + Slave to Nature + The Radiating Eyes + Abadden - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
All in all an excellent spooky evening which is made more special by the wonderful and amazing fancy dress attire worn by the constantly high spirited audience. I know I struggled to recognise so many folks in their fancy dress outfits...(Read More...)

25.10.08 - Pentration + Teasing Lulu + Pussycat - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Her face has naturally aged from what we remember of those Melody Maker or Record Mirror shots of thirty summers past, but the gestures and stage movements bring the memories continually flooding to mind...(Read More...)

24.10.08 - Fell Silent + Ride Inside + Heart of a Coward + Versus Akira + She Fell Victim - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Desperately Callum shouts out an unusual request for an evening gig "Hey! Has anybody got a Philips screwdriver?"! Thankfully, sound engineer Emily comes to the rescue and provides the said item. The band can then resume with their heavy battery of songs...(Read More...)

17.10.08 - Nimmo Brothers + Barely Alive - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Bands containing siblings come in three distinct categories. The brothers Gibb always portrayed a united front, whilst the notorious Gallaghers certainly have their tantrum moments. The legendary relationship between Ray and Dave Davies of Kinks fame was especially fiery and tempestuous! Our visitors tonight, The Nimmo Brothers appear to be in the Gibb corner...(Read More...)

04.10.08 - The Tenth Sid Worth Memorial Trust Fund Gig - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight sees a gig that is dedicated to the life and memory of one of Bedford music's founding fathers, the late Sid Worth. Not only is this a chance for friends to reminisce, but objectively, all monies raised this evening go towards the Sid Worth Memorial Tribute Fund ...(Read More...)

03.10.08 - Firetype + I Am Spy + Angels Standing By + Audio Video Disco - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The emo world seems to be going through a bit of a lull at the moment, especially at the local grass roots level, but this band truly ignite it tonight. Almost as dazzling as their hairstyles...(Read More...)

02.10.08 - Team Waterpolo + Defend Moscow + The Shapes + Guildean Gang - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Their entrance on stage is fairly dramatic as, to darkness, a mighty wailing of an air-raid siren pierces the room! Formed just over a year ago, a support slot to CSS is already on their CV...(Read More...)

27.09.08 - Bad Manners + Cracked Actors + The Blox + Max Splodge + The Pressure Tones - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
it is not until 11.20 that Bad Manners step on stage. The reasons are unclear, but obviously the paying punters should come first. At this late hour they are getting tired and frustrated, and one would say very,very drunk!...(Read More...)

26.09.08 - The Swamis + Red Bullets + Pearl Handled Revolver + The Delaneys - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The fabled Swami-army are here in total force to pay homage to a trio that constantly appeal to both young and old. The amount of various other band members in the audience is a quite staggering testament to The Swamis' pulling power...(Read More...)

22.09.08 - Little Man Tate + Little Thief + Inner City Pirates - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Little Man Tate may hail from Sheffield, but that's where similarities with another band end. Without the fame and fortune these four lads from the Steel City write lyrics for the everyday punters. Songs about girl tempts boy, boy wants girl, and of course drinking!...(Read More...)

13.09.08 - Cravenfest 2008! - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The scene is set for Bedford's premier ska youngsters to skank the joint. I'm talking about Minimal Damage. The bar's 'mosh pit' is packed with dancing youngsters and it's truly the manic moment of Cravenfest. The crowd go ballistic...(Read More...)

12.09.08 - Stray - Reviewed by Billy from Billingham
After finishing a 10 hour shift travelling to and from Scotland, I got home to Teesside, picked up the wife and travelled to Bedford...(Read More...)

10.09.08 - Athlete + Camp America + Tape the Radio - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's ironic that on the night previous Esquires visitors Elbow were celebrating their Mercury album prize success one of their contemporaries, Athlete, are here making their Esquires debut....(Read More...)

29.08.08 - 91 Pieces + String Theory + Spiked + Coarse - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The feisty Spiked girls dazzle and dominate the stage and continue to put to shame Bedford's reticent female performers...(Read More...)

18.08.08 - Fucked Up + The Smoking Hearts + Betty and the Werewolves + The Radiating Eyes - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
During 2008, we have certainly witnessed some large gentlemen jumping around on the Esquires stage. Buster Bloodvessel, Tim Harrington, both heavyweights, but even they seem to pale into comparison to the ample body that belongs to Father Damian 'Pink Eyes' Abraham...(Read More...)

17.08.08 - Verny Lee + Richard Taylor + 91 Pieces - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
By some degree, the biggest cheers are reserved for his Johnny Cash tribute. Plus as Richard sings later on, "A stands for alcohol. Alcohol is awesome!". A lot of heads singularly nod in agreement. ....(Read More...)

16.08.08 - Citizen Keyne + Zero Zeros + UK Vacant + Dun 2 Def - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Special mention tonight must go to all those members of the audience resplendently sporting some wonderful mohican hairstyles. Plus a top DJ set from Adam 'Bleeder' which kept the crowd cooking nicely...(Read More...)

13.08.08 - Arrows + Capital + Kilto Take + Sister Ray - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Sister Ray, sophisticated and oh so uber post new-wave cool. Immense attitude in both their stances and performance. A local band so uniquely different....(Read More...)

12.08.08 - Wolf Law EP - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Hour upon hour spent practising, spending their time perfecting their craft to produce this, their debut EP. This is the result...(Read More...)

12.08.08 - Caimbo + The Whybirds + The Friday Nights - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's then the drummer's turn to take lead vocals on "Make me numb", a drinkers song which gets a loud cheer from some 'pisshead' at the back of the room! ....(Read More...)

09.08.08 - The Brew + Horseman Shakes And The Draymen + Dead Actors - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This confident frontman knows he is amongst friends as he brashly announces about their blues-rock sound "If it's too heavy there is only one way out. The door". Wow! Blunt and to the point, but very true...(Read More...)

06.08.08 - Party Shank + Glamour for Better - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment. This statement tells us where we are tonight...(Read More...)

31.07.08 - Twisted Wheel + Look See Proof + Sukie - Reviewed by Justin Openshaw
"She's a Weapon" is instantly latched upon by a crowd who are warming to our Lancashire visitors. This song is the band's most recent release, and the queue to buy this piece of vinyl at the end of the gig is long....(Read More...)

25.07.08 - The Warriors + Rebel City Radio - Reviewed by Justin Openshaw
They springboard off their monitors, and do all they can to muster some kind of reaction from the pitiful audience. They would have more chance of rising the dead than a handclap...(Read More...)

25.07.08 - The Warriors + The Dilinquents + Rebel City Radio - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Motivation is what gets you started, habit is what keeps you going. That motto would surely apply to the old gents of old skool oi-punk band The Warriors...(Read More...)

19.07.08 - Captain Loveguns and the Tale Telling Dead Men + Valentone + Faeries Wear Boots - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's an original rock opera, which is something akin to Guns'n'Roses meets Carry On Blackadder in the Pirates Of The Carribean...(Read More...)

18.07.08 - New Adventures + Pirate Radio + Swanton Bombs + Shapes - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Jez spars with the singalong bar staff and as this braces-wearing working class hero surveys the sparse surroundings, he notices that the audience has split into two groups. "If this was a pantomime we would be on to a winner!"...(Read More...)

01.07.08 - New Groove Formation - Crowd Control LP - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Bedfordshire's New Groove Formation have consistently been an outstanding live act to view and participate to. With this, it would be interesting to gauge how this raw and varied band would come across on the confines of a piece of plastic. ...(Read More...)

24.06.08 - Ghostwood + Little Thief - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A few devotees of support band Little Thief disappear as soon as their mates have performed. This leaves Ghostwood to appear in front of an empty room except for their small Australian entourage. It's both surreal and baffling...(Read More...)

20.06.08 - Eugene Francis Jnr + The Escape + Royston Jones + Amy and the Integrals - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This twenty-something gentleman is tall and thin, but what is most striking is his apache indian head dress. Whether he is a descendant of the sioux is not made clear, but the warm stage makes him take it off after the third song...(Read More...)

08.06.08 - Glasvegas + Thomas Tantrum + Fruition - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
"Daddy's Gone" is without doubt the song of the night. It's the bands final offering, but this tale of torment seen through the eyes of a fatherless child is absolutely mind-blowing and performed brilliantly...(Read More...)

07.06.08 - Johnny Foreigner + Ox.Eagle.Lion.Man + Tubelord - Reviewed by Luke Slater
Though Esquires might not be decaying, this dingy, dark, converted 19th Century chapel supplies an apt backdrop for the melodramatic proclamations of lead man Fred MacPherson...(Read More...)

06.06.08 - Wilko Johnson + The A Band - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
What of Wilko in 2008? Well, the mop of hair has gone! But that finger can be pointed at many of his supporters in the crowd this evening...!(Read More...)

05.06.08 - Metronomy - Reviewed by Luke Slater
Those present are teased into near electro orgasm by a thumping and vigorous rendition of the punky, power-chord driven ‘Roobard and Custard’ theme tune-esque ‘You Could Easily Have Me...'(Read More...)

05.06.08 - Metronomy + Art of Opposition + Casio Kids + Dream Sequence - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
As with a lot of bands of this ilk, there has to be a gimmick. For Metronomy it's the wearing of special fluorescent circles on their t-shirts, which glow in rhythmic timing with the rather 'plinky-plonky' music...(Read More...)

04.06.08 - UK SUBS + The Tendons + Liam Vernon - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
As the evergreen Mr Harper makes his way on stage, I am reminded of an old saying: "Growing old is mandatory, growing up is optional..."(Read More...)

30.05.08 - Tinker Jack + Kilto Take + Folding for Reuben + Dead Actors - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
David Litchfield, vocalist and guitarist with Tinker Jack, is acutely nervous as he paces around (pre-gig) in the Esquires car park. Headline slot, new member Dan on bass, the stresses and strains of being a performer are rising to the surface...(Read More...)

23.05.08 - Iglu and Hartly + OK Tokyo + Ice Sea Dead People - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight, local promoters Chris and Gareth, aka The Hungry Bears, are celebrating a year of promoting. After a year of bringing Bedford such a diverse line-up of national and international bands, tonight is no exception as recent SXSW sensations Iglu And Hartly bring their unique style to the birthday celebrations....(Read More...)

17.05.08 - The Whybirds + The Sticks + Escape + Sulfer - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The Whybirds are a quartet heavily driven by 70's 'country A.O. rock' and have the appearance to match. Long shaggy hair with bushy beards to boot! Plus, what they have in bundles is the ability to make sweet music...(Read More...)

14.05.08 - The Cazals + Shapes + Pirate Radio + The Culture - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonights gig is yet another promotion by Strange Place Club. They are two 21 year olds, Mark Kemp and Matt Jones, who a few weeks ago gained national recognition for their promotional skills in the NME. They were classed as one of the top 50 forward thinkers of the music industry in 2008....(Read More...)

09.05.08 - Patchwork Grace + Sirenide + String Theory + Trash Monkey - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This is another band at the lifeblood of British music. They might (and their new album is available now) crack the scene, but if they don't there is always a space for their transit in Esquires car park...(Read More...)

08.05.08 - Sergeant + Sister Ray + Arrows + Ed Bowfinger - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
After hitting us hard early doors with the divine "Counting down the days", the middle section is strong. "Sue loves it" and "I love it here" melt the soul, and current single "K' OK'" delivers the knockout punch for the 'Fife boys'. The mosh pit is now awash with dancing, as final song "It all comes back" is performed. Bedford Esquires finally comes alive. It's then a final salute to Sergeant....(Read More...)

04.05.08 - Eddie & The Hot Rods + The Informers - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Beginning with the mornings events, as our Esquires football team won the Beds F.A. Sunday Junior Cup Final. Supported by Danny, Pete, and many more of us, it certainly puts everybody in good spirits for the live music to follow...(Read More...)

02.05.08 - Royston Jones + The Vice + Policy + Alex and the Stragglers - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Its rare for a band who hail from such a long distance to be treated as one of our own, but Reading's The Vice certainly seem to fit the bill....(Read More...)

26.04.08 - Operahouse + String Theory + The Culture - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The choice is stark and real in modern day Britain. Is it an evening of music or a gallon of petrol? The choice, my friends, is yours! Judging by the turnout tonight it appears that the fuel rules...(Read More...)

19.04.08 - The Runners + Jukebox Vandals + Guildean Gang + The Phettz - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire joined forces this evening as some familiar faces re-acquainted themselves with our venue. After winning last years Red Stripe awards, The Runners have gone from strength to strength...(Read More...)

18.04.08 - New Town Kings + Cracked Actors + Liam Vernon + Playing Away - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The song I am taken with is called "Stop", which has the message of eradicating racism from our society. Appropriate really, as this month sees the 30th anniversary of the Rock Against Racism concert in Victoria Park...(Read More...)

17.04.08 - Wild Beasts - Reviewed by Luke Slater
Mint cake and, erm, three quarters of British Sea Power are probably the two most noteworthy exports of Kendal, but Wild Beasts could soon be added to that very short list...(Read More...)

12.04.08 - Die! Die! Die! + Showing Tonight + Polite Underground - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Even if they are top-heavy with exclamation marks, Die! Die! Die!'s performance tonight was breathless and, at times, mesmerisingly brilliant...(Read More...)

10.04.08 - Shapes + Brigante + The Measure + 91 Pieces - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With large banners hanging in every conceivable part of the venue, plus smartly dressed people clicking away on their cameras, it can possibly mean only one thing. The annual Red Stripe Music Awards have reached Bedford Esquires...(Read More...)

05.04.08 - Little Thief + Policy + String Theory + Rosalita - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
After getting together in May 2005, these school and college friends played all the local venues before reaching a Norfolk band competition. This led them to winning Virgin's "Road to V" competition, and saw them opening last years V Festival...(Read More...)

04.04.08 - Imperial Vipers + Robbie Miller - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
After openly revelling in the glory of last nights sell-out London gig, the lean and lanky charismatic frontman Ash tells Bedford "You have a lot to live up to!". The nodding sages of the Dunstable followers agree, but as we all know, Friday nights in "the bar" can be quite special...(Read More...)

29.03.08 - Cutting Pink with Knives + Microphyst + Ice Sea Dead People + Milk It - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight is the perfect case in point as another new promoter hits the trail. 'Richie Rich' introduces four bands, almost as varied as his amazing double mohican hairstyle...(Read More...)

28.03.08 - Terrapin Trainstation + Firetype + The Friday Nights + Stonebroke - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Stylewise, the good parts of the set remind me of Counting Crows, while the lesser points are a turgid mix of Nickelback and Runrig...(Read More...)

22.03.08 - Backup Radio + Jynxed + Racune + The Measure - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Stylishly attired in his adidas top, he enquires of us in his black country burr "Are you havin' a bubble?". Subtitled, it appears that he is asking us if we have enjoyed our evening so far...(Read More...)

16.03.08 - Mat Roberts + Friends - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A long standing musician around town, the afternoon was a huge triumph and success as it showcased some of the wide array of acoustic local talent...(Read More...)

14.03.08 - Eyelash + Sirenide + Amy and the Integrals + Spiked - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The Leighton Buzzard quintet have always held a special place here, and this evening's gig has to be probably their finest Esquires half-hour...(Read More...)

11.03.08 - BoyKillBoy + Lights Action! - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Sometimes it is exasperating to witness the arrogance of touring bands and their road crew. Take tonight for example...(Read More...)

08.03.08 - The Metros, The Wallbirds, The Broadcast - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
As I walk through the Esquires car park in anticipaton of tonights gig, I am struck by the absence of reliant robins parked up in the bays! That's strange - I was given to understand that Peckham's finest were in town...(Read More...)

06.03.08 - Mumm-Ra, Flamboyant Bella, Blonde Louis - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Probably the song of the night is the one Mumm-Ra leave us with. It's called "Out of the Question" and it is literally dripping with hook-laden riffs...(Read More...)

01.03.08 - Bad Manners, Rebelation, Minimal Damage - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Buster is king yet again, although after his health problems of recent years, he is a touch leaner now. As he makes his entrance on to the stage, there is an almighty crowd chorus of "You fat bastard, you fat bastard!"...(Read More...)

29.02.08 - Shapes, Kilto Take, The Vice, The Friday Nights - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Shapes are a Luton band who are constantly in a rush. It must be hard coming from such a depressing and downtrodden place...(Read More...)

23.02.08 - 91 Pieces, Minimal Damage, The Beautiful Sleazy, Penny Racer's Last Journey - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Kicking off proceedings tonight was another candidate for my most ridiculous band name seen at Esquires in 2008...(Read More...)

22.02.08 - I Was A Cub Scout + The Luvvers + Rola Tomassi - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I was a Cub Scout are for me, an unexpectedly pleasant surprise. Progress will be monitored with interest and anticipation....(Read More...)

15.02.08 - Darren Michaelangelo-Smith & The Kraze, Pirate Radio, Valentone, Ed Bowfinger - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
They earn praise for a totally whole-hearted effort, even if their guitar-vocalist did resemble 'Garth' from Wayne's World through my rather lager tinted glasses!...(Read More...)

12.02.08 - Los Campesinos!, Johnny Foreigner, Sparky Deathcap - Reviewed by Luke Slater
The minute stage leaves Los Campesinos! looking slightly like a bizarre identity parade, with guitarists Neil and Tom morphing into Siamese twins joined at the hip, and everyone else finding space wherever they can...(Read More...)

09.02.08 - Les Savy Fav, Black Ramps, Ice Sea Dead People - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
If I see a better gig on level 2 this year, it’ll need to be bloody good!... (Read More...)

05.02.08 - Robots in Disguise, The Michelles, Little Thief - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Main support comes from The Michelles, who I found most tedious, especially their rather ‘quirky’ vocalist who was about as funny as toothache. He sneeringly tells us that Bedford is memorable only for it’s roundabouts, shame he means Milton Keynes... (Read More...)

02.02.08 - Lightspeed Champion - Reviewed by Luke Slater
In the week where he was plastered on the cover of NME and appeared as panellist on Nevermind The Buzzcocks, you’d be forgiven for assuming that being chased through the streets of Bedford whilst outside a popular Portuguese-themed chicken restaurant was clear evidence of Dev Hynes’ (aka Lightspeed Champion) rapid rise to stardom...(Read More...)

02.02.08 - Lightspeed Champion, Semifinalists, Guildean Gang - Reviewed by Luke Slater
The crowd demand an encore, and rightfully get one. Dev’s had such a good evening that it’s a fun song, and a favourite of his - a cover of Weezer’s 'Buddy Holly' (although this reviewer was clinging to the hope that it might have been ‘What’s Your Damage’!)...(Read More...)

01.02.08 - Akiakane, The Escape, The Ruffcuts - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Moe does most of the communicating as her English is much better than our Japanese! She encourages everyone to "enjoy the punk rock show" which everybody certainly does.... (Read More...)

26.01.08 - Royston Jones, Tinker Jack, Kilto Take, Amy and the Integrals - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tinker Jacks appearance tonight is tinged with a certain degree of sadness, as this is guitarist Kristian Purcell’s last gig with the band. Seeking new pastures, I suppose... (Read More...)

25.01.08 - Skaville UK, New Groove Formation, The Pressure Tones, Minimal Damage - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
If last week’s ska evening predominantly featured the alternative side , tonight was all about the traditional slice of the genre... (Read More...)

24.01.08 - Joe Lean and the Jing Jang Jong - Reviewed by Stacey
Joe Lean reaches out and holds the hand of a lucky girl in the front row and throws in a kiss on the hand for good luck...(Read More...)

24.01.08 - Joe Lean and the Jing Jang Jong, Team Waterpolo, Cheeky Cheeky and the Nosebleeds - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Once more, here at Esquires, we witness a hyped up band, whether Joe Lean and the Jing Jang Jong turn that into a successful career is for the future. As Joe tonight sang, ‘loyalties come, loyalties go’....(Read More...)

19.01.08 - Random Hand, No Cigar, Magic Skool, Spiked - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's a rather spooky song about Random Hand’s local Job Centre - hopefully not a place the boys will be visiting in the near future!!... (Read More...)

28.12.07 - Henry and the Bleeders + The Dilinquents + The Ramblers + The Verny Lee Band - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
He is, no doubt, in a bad mood as he tells us the sad story of writing off his motor a few months ago. The song dedicated to it is called "Volkswagen Boogie"... (Read More...)

15.12.07 - Wolflaw + The Smoking Hearts + Slave to Nature + 91 Pieces + Carnal + The Escape - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Last years Christmas Cracker saw The Smoking Hearts put on an over the top boorish appearance. Tonight the boys are back on top form and they literally blow me away with their performance. It's vibrant, loud, exciting and utterly cohesive... (Read More...)

14.12.07 - The Quireboys - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Nearly eighteen months since they last played here (of course they did support Status Quo at Bedford Park in the summer), their appeal never seems to wane... (Read More...)

12.12.07 - Lethal Bizzle + Skinnyman + Flamboyant Bella - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Having seen Mr Maxwell Ansah, otherwise known as Lethal Bizzle, in action, I have to give great credit to this showman of 'grindie'... (Read More...)

29.11.07 - Cystal Castles + Get Strikes - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The Esquires promoting team we know as the Hungry Bears continue to amaze and impress with the extraordinary range of bands and styles they bring to this venue... (Read More...)

23.11.07 - The Dilinquents + Kicking Kays + Minimal Damage + Amy Lee + Darren Michaelangelo Smith - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The Dilinquents continue to be the epitome of Bedford cool... (Read More...)

17.11.07 - Will Haven + The Miramar Disaster + Scar My Eyes + Vs Akira - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The dying embers of Bedford's once thriving metal scene was sadly witnessed this evening as American rock legends Will Haven played in front of a passionless and near deserted Level 2 audience... (Read More...)

16.11.07 - Sirenide + Spiked + 91 Pieces + Policy - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight they introduce us to a new song called "Midland Road". You all know that stretch of road which is notorious for all things illegal! I can feel another 91 Pieces anthem approaching... (Read More...)

15.11.07 - Holy Fuck + The Clik Clik + Ice Sea Dead People - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A few people have recently commented to me that there has been an absence of a really outstanding 'take your breath away' gig during the first ten months of 2007. Needless to say, these people are absent tonight for the hotly anticipated apperance of Canadian quartet Holy Fuck... (Read More...)

13.11.07 - The Toasters + The Pressure Tones + Fandangle + Minimal Damage - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
As with the majority of bands on show this evening, they gave the impression that they wanted to leave the stage as quick as possible! At least I thought they did... (Read More...)

10.11.07 - Royston Jones + Jynxt + Firetype + A.R.T. - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
He's joined on vocals by the lovely Tally, who radiates a cool glamour and whose clothing (or rather lack of it) transfixed the young lads at the front as she rhythmically gyrated about the stage..! (Read More...)

09.11.07 - Johnny Panic + Darren Michelangelo Smith and the Craze + Gertrude + Autumn Red + This is my Honesty - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Autumn Red ignite this sparsely filled room with some steep stoner sounds that veer from quiet echoes to all out thunderbolts from the sky! Think Spiritualized and you will pretty much grasp what this band brought for us tonight... (Read More...)

02.11.07 - Life Among People - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Their opening songs offer a rudimentary, but a certain visceral thrashing that is not entirely appreciated by a rather underwhelmed audience... (Read More...)

01.11.07 - His'n'Herpes 'Scratch n Sniff' E.P. - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The opening track "Back to Brixton" is a full on barrage of snappy riffs and is only let down by a Bedford band singing about Brixton! Boys, why not "Back to Kempston"...? (Read More...)

01.11.07 - HeKz 'Another Time' E.P. - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's slightly poppy and commercial and (whisper it ever so quietly) a tiny bit funky... (Read More...)

26.10.07 - Rate of the Day, Dash-Delete, The Shapes, Sticks - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Last month saw them travelling to Rovigo in Italy and playing in front of 500 Italian music fans at a local music festival. A truly marvellous experience... (Read More...)

13.10.07 - Richmond Fontaine, Grayson Capps, Luther Russell - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Prior to the gig a shaggy haired, bearded 'hippy' gentleman (no offence to hippies!) approached me in the downstairs bar enquiring about tonight's show... (Read More...)

09.10.07 - Hadouken!, Late of the Pier, The Whip - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The mosh pit is as full and ecstatic as I have witnessed here in a long time. It is quite a sight. I just ponder and wish I was a shareholder in a glo-stick company... (Read More...)

05.10.07 - Kill the Arcade, The Broadcast, We Are The Ocean, Exit Avenue, Saving Aimee - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I found the comments of their vocalist a little disparaging, as he sneeringly shouts at the audience "I've seen more movement at a morgue... (Read More...)

29.09.07 - GMT, Fifth Quarter, HeKz - Reviewed by Karen Jones
These blokes might have played with some famous people, but that's not really a good enough excuse... (Read More...)

28.09.07 Chuck Prophet & The Mission Express + - Bob Frank & John Murry - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Educated and amusing, he even mentions the word "metaphysical" in conversation! Wow! Not normally a word heard on the level 2 stage... (Read More...)

22.09.07 - Red Dollar, Tinker Jack, Diversion - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Taking scope, recharging the batteries, or writing new material, whatever caused this gap it was really good to see this quartet back here again... (Read More...)

15.09.07 - Cravenfest 2007! - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I spend the third annual Cravenfest festival upstairs on level 2 and this is my chronicle of events... (Read More...)

14.09.07 - The Swamis, The Vision, Royston Jones, Amy Lee - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
As seems obligatory with this style of music, the vocalist seems somewhat overly dressed, certainly under the warm lights! Coolness over comfort I suppose... (Read More...)

08.09.07 - Kicks, Firefly, Kissing Slinky, Johnny Goes West - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With the England football and rugby teams both playing just a few hours earlier today, it was with appropriate timing that headlining tonight were Kicks who proceeded to produce more shots than your average tequila bar... (Read More...)

07.09.07 - Novocaine, Solemn Promise, Sovrin - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's good-time basic raw rock'n'roll that contains an abundance of guitar driven tunes and allied to various doses of psychedelia which are liberally dotted throughout... (Read More...)

30.08.07 - Cinders Fall, Kid Cosmic - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Mike tries to engage the audience in a 'sing it back' chorus participation, which went something like - "Making the pancake, making the booty sing, throwing the doggy out the window"! Apologies if I haven't got it quite right, but that's what I was singing... (Read More...)

25.08.07 - Fifth Quarter, Robbie Miller - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With the summer finally arriving (!), what better way to while away a warm evening than to take in some scorching blues-rock... (Read More...)

18.08.07 - Luke Pickett, Paige, The October Game, Broadcast, Tom Evans - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Twenty years of age, streaked blond hair, tattooed muscular arms, ripped denim jeans, diamond studded earring and a very expensive wristwatch - the young ladies are out in force for this Hertfordshire gentleman... (Read More...)

17.08.07 - The Peacocks, Henry and the Bleeders, The Dilinquents, Liam Vernon - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Ironically in the week that saw the world mark the 30th anniversary of the passing of Elvis Presley, tonights headliners The Peacocks were recreating the look and sound that was so popular when Elvis was at the height of his powers... (Read More...)

10.08.07 - Whitelight Trashion, Patchwork Grace, Backup, Kissing Slinky - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
During its performance, a Roadie in a gorilla mask comes on and offers a large glass of whisky to each of the band... (Read More...)

09.08.07 - Roscoe & Scout, Dividing the Line, LA Riots, VS Akira, Rench - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Each song follows the same formula: a shouty start followed by some quieter, more reflective sounds, before we get the final torrent of shouting... (Read More...)

04.08.07 - The Beaslie Gang, The Ramblers, Spiked, Amy Lee - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Here at Esquires it was all about the 21st century, and a case of 'the kids are alright' as the vibrancy of youth took centre stage... (Read More...)

03.08.07 - The Sticks, Amy Lee, Kristian Purcell, Afro Dan - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Like Prince on stilts and sounding like Alison Moyet after a heavy night on the babycham... (Read More...)

28.07.07 - Bedrock Day 2 - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Day 2 at Bed-Rock sees me rather confused, as I turn up at Level 2 expecting to see Necrosadistic Goat Torture... (Read More...)

27.07.07 - Bedrock Day 1 - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Bed-Rock, fifty plus acts, two venues, eighteen hours or so of live music, spread over two days... (Read More...)

15.07.07 - Mexicolas - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Today is quite a coup for the venue as Birmingham's Mexicolas have dropped in... (Read More...)

14.07.07 - Grown At Home, Random Hand, The JB Conspiracy - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I believe in some circles they have been accused of having somewhat of a grubby rawness... (Read More...)

13.07.07 - The Dregs, 91 Pieces, Fruition, Josh Kershaw - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Firstly I have a small confession to make. I, along with a sizeable percentage of this country, suffer from triskaidekephobia... (Read More...)

30.06.07 - The Blue Teeth, Simple Certainty, Kicking Kays, Amy Lee - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With full and total crowd participation in evidence, the sight of an acoustic performer exacting the mosh pit to clapping and singing is a mite unusual. Even the normally reticent bar staff are dancing along... (Read More...)

29.06.07 - Guildean Gang, The Culture, Jukebox Vandals, Genius Sex Poets - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The bands sloppy stage show looked fuelled by something more than pure nervous adrenalin, as they were egged on by their hyperactive fanbase... (Read More...)

23.06.07 - Zetan Spore, Epoch Live - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
They are best described as euphoric, psychedelic trance. Unfortunately it’s a disappointing turn out. Maybe the people who would have attended this gig are splashing around in the Glastonbury mud... (Read More...)

17.06.07 - The Dead 60s, New Groove Formation, The Culture - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The initially reticent crowd finally get into the party spirit and start jumping and dancing, finally putting out of their minds that its Monday tomorrow... (Read More...)

16.06.07 - The UK Subs, Dun 2 Def, Henry and the Bleeders, The Dilinquents - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The sight of a man just shy of his pension and bus pass singing 'Teenage' is rather surreal (or comical!), it's what the public wants... (Read More...)

09.06.07 - Windmill, The Whybirds, Loose Baby Charlotte, Dylan Lee Jones - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Windmill - super lyrics or superficial drivel?, genius or pretentious? I am afraid that for this reviewer it was way, way too avant-garde... (Read More...)

08.06.07 - Sirenide, The Little Villeins, Spiked, Simple Certainty - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It was so full of teen spirit and steeped in influences that reached way beyond their years - all this from four girls well short of ordering their first snakebite and black... (Read More...)

29.05.07 - GoodBooks, The Guildean Gang, Little Thief - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A great evening and a marvellous warm-up. As they left the stage I wondered if GoodBooks were playing the Reading festival this year (sorry!)... (Read More...)

26.05.07 - Loof See Proof, The Runners, Model Horror, Chris Phillips - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The huge rapport between band and fans is epitomised when one such punter unleashes his full pint at the Sells brothers. "What a waste of beer" I ponder... (Read More...)

25.05.07 - Djevara, Five Miles Down, Lady and the Tramps - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Djevara are Punk in attitude, Metal in sound, Hardcore in intensity, Alternative in disposition and multi-cultural in composition (Read More...)

11.05.07 - The Zico Chain, The Dilinquents, Slideshow, The Black Reverence - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The Zico Chain prove yet again that they are an amazing live band, but seem frustrated and perplexed that, once again, the Bedford public has passed them by... (Read More...)

10.05.07 - 11 Rivers, Kristian Purcell, Rob Miller - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's very competent, but does not appear to be going anywhere and the B-word (boredom) sets in very early... (Read More...)

06.05.07 - Bowfinger, Portion, Jub, The Dead Sea Sounds, Dan Raza - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The hardy perennial 'Everything is Easy' possesses a melody that can't possibly fail to melt the soul of any cynic in the audience... (Read More...)

04.05.07 - Raging Speedhorn, Burning Skies, Aortic Dissection, Slave to Nature - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It culminates with one of the most dynamic aural and visual metal displays seen here this year... (Read More...)

28.04.07 - Switches, White Light Parade, The Beaslie Gang - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
In the world of pop music cheekbone geometry has always counted for a lot ... (Read More...)

27.04.07 - Simon Kirke & Larry Oakes, Freeway - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Kirke and Oakes keep a small audience enraptured, especially when they play the timeless 'My Brother Jake' which seems to get a collective hum of approval when the opening bars are played... (Read More...)

27.04.07 - Eastfield, Citizen Keyne - Reviewed by Karen Jones
They have a T-shirt that pretty much sums up what I think of jugglers. If I was going to Glastonbury I would wear this all weekend... (Read More...)

21.04.07 - Sonic Boom Six, Pickled Dick, New Groove Formation, Club Sex (Featuring 2Planets), Weightloss - Reviewed by Christine Miller
Don’t let the petite stature of front woman Laila fool you, as she bounces around the stage like a thing possessed... (Read More...)

20.04.07 - The Guildean Gang, Little Thief, The Inspiration, The Dregs - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Although Bedford can’t compete with tonight’s other event, the annual Camden Crawl, I would like to think anyone dropping into Esquires this evening would be suitably impressed... (Read More...)

16.04.07 - Tokyo Dragons, Voodoo Six, Radio Friendly, Scratchplate - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Monday night gigs are very rare at Esquires and judging from the meagre turnout tonight, it seems that most of Bedford's gig-going faces are having a quiet night in recovering from the weekends excess... (Read More...)

14.04.07 - Louie, Illustrated Youth, Portion - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The only negative comment I can make about them and their set tonight is their awful band name! Louie? Urgh!! It just conjures up an image of some dodgy 70's teeny-bopper band (anyone remember Kenny..?) (Read More...)

13.04.07 - Victory Pill, Losing Sun, The Modus Vivendi, The Perfect Crime - Reviewed by Christine Miller
It is obvious that Victory Pill is still a relatively new venture for even these experienced musicians, and the waves of excited-tension are almost tangible... (Read More...)

08.04.07 - Love Muscle, The Occasion, Nathan White Band, Redskope, Amy Lee - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A young lady by the name of Amy Lee opened the evening with a calm and confident acoustic performance. Nothing too surprising there you may think, until you realise she is only 14 years of age... (Read More...)

07.04.07 - The Culture, Stranger, Tinker Jack, Green Calibre, Josh Kershaw - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
However, one word of complaint. Please can you cut out some of the needless and boring swearing which you indulge in during your in-between song stories... (Read More...)

06.04.07 - Rattlesnake Remedy, Sacred Mother Tongue, Fifth Quarter, Ruby Shoes - Reviewed by Tracey Minutillo
The lead singer had a voice that sometimes sounded like Steven Tyler and at others more like Axl Rose, though when he spoke he had a Brummie accent more like that of Ozzy Osbourne... (Read More...)

06.04.07 - Rattlesnake Remedy, Sacred Mother Tongue, Fifth Quarter, Ruby Shoes - Reviewed by Christine Miller
As the band groove through what has to be a fifteen or twenty minute Hendrix cover, nobody seems to mind that the evening is running nearly half an hour behind schedule... (Read More...)

06.04.07 - Rattlesnake Remedy, Sacred Mother Tongue, Fifth Quarter, Ruby Shoes - Reviewed by Karen Jones
According to the local rag they are popular in Russia. So are potatoes... (Read More...)

30.03.07 - Juniper Hollow / LA Riots, Beyond All Reason, Showing Tonight - Reviewed by Christine Miller
Juniper Hollow might be unsure about their name (it’s currently in the process of changing to LA Riots) but there is definitely no uncertainty when it comes to the music... (Read More...)

24.03.07 - Jack Peñate, The Video Nasties, Dylan Lee Jones - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
He seems stunned and surprised by the wild cheering and crowd surfing that occurs during his thirty minute set, and as it draws to a close he tosses his cap into the audience where it is quickly snaffled by one lucky punter... (Read More...)

23.03.07 - Wolflaw, Love Muscle, The Mono Effect - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Mixing the scuplted fury of metal to the visceral clout of punk at it's earliest form, frontman Sean has the elegantly wasted physique of a typical rock shaman... (Read More...)

17.03.07 - The Corsairs, Henry and the Bleeders, The Dilinquents - Reviewed by Karen Jones
I really wasn't supposed to be reviewing this, but a certain Mr. Stapleton is jigging about like a leprechaun and giggling like a girl. And wearing one of those silly hats so he probably can't see anyway... (Read More...)

13.03.07 - As Silence Falls, Ioneyes, Vs Akari, Latitudes - Reviewed by Karen Jones
Perhaps I'm missing the point, but a large screen behind them showing some cartoons would perhaps cheer things up a bit... (Read More...)

09.03.07 - Skaville UK, The Pressure Tones, The Ramblers, Kid Kamikaze - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's certain that there are going to be some severe aching limbs in a lot of mature ageing bodies come tomorrow morning once the alcohol wears off... (Read More...)

02.03.07 - Hexz, Scratchplate, Invision, 91 Pieces, Rhetorical - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
"Be it in biblical times or the Crimean War," he introduces 'Exodus', "This is a song about some guy messing about in the desert"... (Read More...)

24.02.07 - Rate Of The Day, The Culture, Little Thief, The Guildean Gang, Sister Ray - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight's gig launched The Blag, or to use it's official title theblagpodcast.com - podcasting for the local alternative music scene. Check it out... (Read More...)

23.02.07 - The Mono Effect, Scope, Linchpin, The Scare, Symbo - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
His few words are mainly mumbled and largely incoherent and his initial "Hello sweethearts. We are from Australia and we are the future" is about as intelligible as it gets... (Read More...)

17.02.07 - I Was a Cub Scout, Tonight is Goodbye, Pirate Radio - Reviewed by Graham Albans
Todd Marriot plays some keys, then some guitar, then some keys, then dances, then some keys, then dances some more…... (Read More...)

16.02.07 - Pickled Dick, Random Hand, Desperate Cycle, 91 Pieces, Mistook Crook - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This is a band who are the true lifeblood of the live music circuit, driving lots of miles, playing in front of a few strangers for a few pennies. Well done boys... (Read More...)

15.02.07 - Right Turn Clyde, The Perfect Crime - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
'Drinking About You' is a painful song for vocalist Jazz as he hasn't touched a drop of alcohol for all of two weeks! He dedicates it to himself while handing over the bands' communal pint of water to bassist Marc... (Read More...)

13.02.07 - Electric Soft Parade, Restlistless, Tinker Jack - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With the annual Brit awards due to take place tomorrow night, it would not have been fanciful to suggest that tonights headliners Electric Soft Parade probably could have made off with a trophy or two when their magnificent debut album 'Holes in the Wall' was released way back in 2002... (Read More...)

10.02.07 - Dun 2 Def, Rotten Agenda - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The crowd, most of whom are too young to remember this style of music in its prime, are fully appreciative of a great evening... (Read More...)

09.02.07 - Lost Alone, Burn in Reason, Exit Avenue - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Bassist Tom Kitchen is a Ramone reincarnated. A tall, lanky beanpole of a figure, low slung guitar, black hair and clothing, phew he's ultra cool...! (Read More...)

03.02.07 - The Rakes, The Social - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
In the week that previous Esquires visitors The View slammed straight in at number one in the album charts, tonight's sell out gig saw a return to the venue of The Rakes... (Read More...)

02.02.07 - Slaves to Gravity, Phonic Rapture, Underdosed - Reviewed by Karen Jones
I thought it was an unusual vocal style, it wasn't quite in tune, but it didn' t really sound out of tune - maybe we just don't know all the notes ... (Read More...)

01.02.07 - Little Thief, Media Blackout, No-one Famous - Reviewed by Graham Albans
Get ready to be passing around bootlegged demo CDs in a couple of years... (Read More...)

27.01.07 - Look See Proof, Optimist, The Runners, The Guildean Gang - Reviewed by Graham Albans
Look See Proof’s live performance is tighter than Johnny Borrell’s trousers and their next single should tip them over the edge to full blown phenomenon... (Read More...)

25.01.07 - Ioneyes, Latitudes, Josh Kershaw - Reviewed by Graham Albans
As the tunes developed, so did the grin on my face, and the smiles of those in the room who knew they were witnessing something incredible... (Read More...)

20.01.07 - The Rifts, Goodfinger - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
When Tom Verlaine heard them live he described the sound of Goodfinger as 'the future of New York music'. How can I possibly disagree with a legend...? (Read More...)

12.01.07 - Last Man Standing, Helminthian, Sirenide, Scratchplate, Rench, 91 Pieces - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
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... (Read More...)

01.01.2007 ~ 2006 - A Retrospective - feature by Martin Stapleton
Martin looks back at the most memorable gigs of 2006 at Esquires, plus our thoughts on the best albums and singles of the last 12 months and our hot tips for 2007...(Read More...)

30.12.06 - Bowfinger, Fruition, The New Town Centres, Portion - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The band appeared to be more The Rutles than The Beatles in their approach to the task..! (Read More...)

29.12.06 - New Groove Formation, Rate of the Day, The Beaslie Gang, The Culture - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Well, the Christmas festivities are over, and what better way of working off all that excess weight than a little skankin' to the marvellous sounds of New Groove Formation... (Read More...)

23.12.06 - Funyamum, Sirenide, Recovery, Stranger - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight marked the end of an era as Funyamum, one of Bedford's more perennial bands, bowed out after 15 or so years with their final gig. Their loyal followers, many of whom were around at the very start of their career, come to say goodbye... (Read More...)

21.12.06 - Henry and the Bleeders, Angels Cry, Smoking Hearts, Hexz, Wolflaw, Love Muscle, TV Kicks, His and Herpes - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It's rather akin to unwrapping an unwelcome Christmas present, a bottle of cheap aftershave, when an XBox was on Santa's list. It's repetitive, boorish and uninspiring. Even their fans gave it a miss.... (Read More...)

17.12.06 - The Vibrators, Dun 2 Def, Wolflaw, His and Herpes - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
From Saturday afternoons spent on the Highbury terraces to a Saturday evening searching out some dark, dingy place, looking for a new wave fix. It was a truly special and magical time that led me to so many bands... (Read More...)

16.12.06 - The Swamis, The Runners, The Occassion, Sister Ray - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Soon it becomes evident that the early arrivals are slightly scared of Sister Ray as they safely position themselves at the side and rear of the room... (Read More...)

15.12.06 - Klaxons, Rat:Agg:Agg - Reviewed by Steve Norman
I must admit that given the hype and my lack of former knowledge / interest in them, I was ready for the worst; ready for some turgid Automatic Franz Razor Killers sound-a-likes who shit their pants at the thought of having to play in front of a live audience, let alone entertain them... (Read More...)

13.12.06 - Drunk in Public (a.k.a. The Levellers) - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
After two solid hours, it's fair to say everybody in the venue are drunk in public, either by spirit or emotion.. (Read More...)

09.12.06 - Bad Habits, Knievel Genius, Pirate Radio, Dylan Lee Jones - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Only a handful of die-hard regulars and various friends of bandmembers bothered to drag themselves away from the no-doubt riveting final of X-Factor tonight... (Read More...)

01.12.06 - Circle Master, Kissing Slinky, All Your Rage, The Final Prototype - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
An idea that was first mooted last year finally came to fruition tonight, and a boisterous young crowd plus a few mums and dads added to a buzzing atmosphere... (Read More...)

01.12.06 - Hexz: Exodus EP - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This is an EP to turn up very loud and annoy your Mum/Dad/Neighbours with. However, if you have very cool parents they will probably join you headbanging away - Hexz's Iron Maiden influenced sound really is that infectious... (Read More...)

25.11.06 - Moxie, Kharma 45, Little Thief, The Venkman Project - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Things reach a peak with the appropriately titled 'Ecstasy', a state I was in at the end of a mindblowing set... (Read More...)

24.11.06 - Sacred Mother Tongue, Losing Sun, Imicus, Wolflaw - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I always feel they get a raw deal from our crowd, and tonight is no exception, as the partisan fans fail to respond to the bold explosive sound perpetuated by our visitors.... (Read More...)

17.11.06 - Interlock, Ex Nihilo, Unclassified, Centre of Eruption - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
They are obviously just a bit too extreme and heavy for the gentle souls of Bedford who troll round town in their long black leather coats... (Read More...)

11.11.06 - Fruition, The Culture, TV Kicks, Sister Ray - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Their only fault this evening is the constant plugging of their new E.P, such as their comment "This would make a good Christmas Present!" Hmmm, I think 'Stop the Clocks' is probably a better option... (Read More...)

09.11.06 - The Ramblers, Valentone, Underdosed - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Frontman Jack possesses all the trademark 'Macgowan' moves and poses. But boy can he sing... (Read More...)

07.11.06 - Art Brut, Pink Grease - Reviewed by Simone
There's a crackle in the air at Esquires tonight, as fresh from the cover of the Rolling Stone (in Germany), Art Brut are due to take the stage... (Read More...)

04.11.06 - The On Offs, The Presidents of Park Street, The New Town Centres, The Inspiration - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The lyrics offer a desperate please to leave this wretched place. Lads, I know what you mean. I had the same feeling on Tuesday when our bus was 25 minutes late leaving Northampton Bus Station....! (Read More...)

28.10.06 - Bowfinger, The Rate of the Day, The Dogs, Jumpsuit Collective - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A cross section of ages and sexes are always drawn to see them when they come to town and once again they are also ‘The best attired band in Bedfordshire’....! (Read More...)

27.10.06 - Betty Curse, Love Bites, The Rifts, Love Muscle - Reviewed by Christine Miller
Betty Curse has already began to capture the same anthemic tunes and dedicated fan following as bands like Aiden and My Chemical Romance... (Read More...)

21.10.06 - The Quireboys - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
One things for certain, there are going to be an awful lot of hangovers on Sunday morning as the floor is absolutely littered with broken plastic containers and bottles. Let's hope it's not another five years before the Quireboys play the Esquires stage again.... (Read More...)

20.10.06 - The Koolaid Electric Company, Valentine Stitch, The October Game, The Venkman Project - Reviewed by Karen Jones
I was mostly worried about her dress giving way. Luckily I think I was out of range of flying buttons... (Read More...)

14.10.06 - Patchwork Grace, Sphere, Teenage Casket Company, Optional Down - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
They contained everthing that had been missing practically all night - direction, excitement, and great tunes. Suddenly the past two hours were forgotten... (Read More...)

13.10.06 - Portion, Fruition, Presidents of Park Street, Sister Ray - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...he takes some time out to light up a ‘cancer stick’ on stage, something his dad once told him not to do. Did he listen? Last time Portion were here I told Blaine not to swing on the lighting rigging. Did he listen..? (Read More...)

12.10.06 - Bride of the Atom, TV Kicks, Liam Butler - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The music combines the gritty working class realism of Ray Davies and the look and sound of Winnebago Deal! To put it politely, these two certainly wouldn’t get a job working for the Lincoln tourist board... (Read More...)

10.10.06 - Dun 2 Def ~ 'Every Weekend' CD - Reviewed by Steve Norman
It’s aggressive, chaotic, confrontational and ultimately intelligent – everything punk is meant to be. Time to wake up, kids, ‘cos according to my calendar September ended about two weeks ago.... (Read More...)

07.10.06 - The Heights, Look See Proof, Culture, The Runners - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Today was not a good day to be Welsh! A proud nation, the national football team had in the afternoon been demolished 5-1 by lowly Slovakia while Esquires headliners, Welsh indie rockers The Heights experienced their own problems... (Read More...)

06.10.06 - Knievel Genius, Son of a Gun, Faster Inferno - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Nearly 1 million guitars were sold in 2005, 200,000 more than in 2004 and double the number sold in 1999.... (Read More...)

05.10.06 - Xi, Wolflaw, The Wake - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A touch of humour occurs when he annouces the title of the next song as 'S.U.F.O.'. When a member of the crowd asks what it stands for, the reply is swift and to the point. See if you can work it out... (Read More...)

30.09.06 - The Sid Worth Memorial Tribute Fund Gig - Reviewed by Keith (Bedford Metal)
With one of their songs being dedicated to the man who did so much for live music in this area it was good to hear call outs and mention as to the reason why this gig was being held... (Read More...)

29.09.06 - Eyelash, Sirenide, The Ruby Shoes, The Delinquents - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Sing-a-long choruses with arms raised in the air - Great participation, a fine set & you could almost smell the Jack Daniels!... (Read More...)

28.09.06 - Frontline, Condemned to Silence - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Because as the Cockney Rejects once told us 'Die your hair Dayglo, look a Prat, Didn't they tell you Skins were back?'... (Read More...)

23.09.06 - Tarantism, New Groove Formation, The Swamis - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
For the History buffs, apparently Tarantism was an epidemic dancing mania which was especially prevalent in Southern Italy from the 15th to 17th Century. Popularly thought to be caused by the Tarantula bite, there must have been a few spiders in Esquires tonight with all the manic dancing on display.... (Read More...)

21.09.06 - Helminthian, The Delinquents, Rhetorical, Carnal - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
As in a game of Pool at Esquires, the House Rules state that the winner stays on... (Read More...)

16.09.06 - Cravenfest 2006 - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Having positioned myself in the usual place on Level 2, this is my account of the unfolding events of the day... (Read More...)

15.09.06 - Iain Archer, Paul Steel, Windout, Emm - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight with three acoustic acts on show it was never going to be too lively on stage but at the end of this overlong evening I had almost lost the will to live... (Read More...)

14.09.06 - Bromhead's Jacket, Thomas Tantrum, The Ultra Sonics - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With songs packed full of tales about everyday mundane experiences and the inevitable loves and struggles in bedsit land, vocalist Tim Hampton is cast as a 21st century prophet, bluntly telling the kids the undeniable truths about life... (Read More...)

14.09.06 - Bromhead's Jacket, Thomas Tantrum, The Ultra Sonics - Reviewed by Karen Jones
And no the guitarist doesn’t look like Russell Brand, unless you’ve been drinking that special cider that turns you blind... (Read More...)

09.09.06 - Sweet Tin Hoax, The October Game, Don Palmacci - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...which had the sound of The Smiths marked all over it. I was so hooked on it I was almost expecting to see some Gladiolas protuding from the singer's back pocket at the end... (Read More...)

08.09.06 - The Swamis, Rate of the Day, Stranger, Sister Ray - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tall, lean, black hair flowing and stripped to the waist, the charismatic frontman has the entire room in his grip.... (Read More...)

18.08.06 - Anemic, Clearview Kills, None Is The Number, The Abner - Reviewed by Christine Miller
Perhaps need to toughen up a bit, as they seem rather put out by the fact that the crowd aren’t giving them their full attention, and similarly alarmed that some even have their backs turned to them.... (Read More...)

12.08.06 - Shellshock, Helminthian, Isolation, Elements of Refusal, Carnal - Reviewed by Christine Miller
It seems that that Shellshock are the next forward thinking band to mix radically different genres and challenge the stereotypical metal mould.... (Read More...)

11.08.06 - Bowfinger, Full Circle, Portion - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Solid and dependable. These are the two words that spring to mind when describing tonights acts. Three bands that include musicians that perhaps are more mature in age than the norm, but thankfully for us they don't act it... (Read More...)

09.08.06 - The View, Fruition, Antec Sonata - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
with famous connections including Pete Doherty, Noel Gallagher, Mani and Bobby Gillespie, the tough early fences that normally face a band in the early stages of their career have been completely flattened in their charge into the big time... (Read More...)

09.08.06 - Henry and the Bleeders - Switchblade Rockabilly CD - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Four slabs of Henry and the Bleeders and a perfect encapsulation of what the band have been working towards in their 18 month career... (Read More...)

04.08.06 - Henry and the Bleeders, The Dillinquents, Desperate Cycle, Grown at Home, Fleeing from Finales - Reviewed by Christine Miller
It wouldn’t be a Dillenquents’ set without their piece de resistance, the unique cover of Van Morrison’s ‘Brown-Eyed Girl’, lovingly reworked and renamed, ‘Shit Bitch Whore’. Delightful.... (Read More...)

28.07.06 - The Ailerons, Ali Love, Black Ramps, Amanaboutadog - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
.....he seemed to be enjoying his time with his new band mates and bizarrely named vocalist Charity Hair is so much prettier than Damon Albarn! (Read More...)

22.07.06 - Novocaine, Solvent UK, Transatlantic Sound - Reviewed by Karen Jones
Maybe as a promotion thay could actually give away painkillers at the door. Worth a try lads. It may have dulled the ache in my soul..... (Read More...)

20.07.06 - Faster Inferno, Mash - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
....a certain individual named Tyson Schenker on guitar. If that surname seems a little familiar, it is because his father is none other than Michael Schenker of Scorpions, UFO and the Michael Schenker Group...... (Read More...)

15.07.06 - Part Chimp, Men of Unitus, Notorious Hi-Fi Killers, Black Ramps - Reviewed by Karen Jones
Part Chimp?? Part Bollocks! I like noise as much as the next person, but good noise. I wasn’t sure if they were still sound checking..... (Read More...)

15.07.06 - Part Chimp, Men of Unitus, Notorious Hi-Fi Killers, Black Ramps - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...whose long serving vocalist always seems to be teetering on the edge of insanity when he performs here..... (Read More...)

15.07.06 - I Love You Goodbye, The Bitter Suite, Green Calibre - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
....resplendent in cool black attire complete with tie and shaven head he could almost be chief bouncer at a West End Club.... (Read More...)

08.07.06 - The Freaks Union, The Smoking Hearts, A New Day's Enemy, Score One for Safety, Public Relations Exercise - Reviewed by Christine Miller
Ten years in the business and The Freaks Union really have perfected the art of providing an amusing and genuinely passionate performance of punk brilliance..... (Read More...)

06.07.06 - The Rifles, The Ravines, Fruition, The Newtones - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It will be interesting to see how their debut album (out on the 17th July) fares. I'll certainly be buying a copy.... (Read More...)

30.06.06 - New Groove Formation, Weightloss, Dummy Run, Left Engine - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Quite simply an energetic thrill and as 'International Waste of Time' disappears into the ether, the body and mind are on a higher plane... (Read More...)

24.06.06 - The Gift - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...the poor turn out gave testament to the fact that people were not prepared to pay over the top money for Rick Buckler's pension fund... (Read More...)

23.06.06 - The Shocker, The Dilinquents, Dun 2 Def, The Ramblers - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The group also seem to have smuggled over the balmy and oppressive Californian heat and how we revelled in their sauna sonics... (Read More...)

16.06.06 - Miksha, The Scare, Nudging Frankie, Carnal, Stranger - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A three piece chillingly titled Carnal and featuring the not-so-chillingly named Jeffrey, Rich and George... (Read More...)

14.06.06 - Soho Dolls, Pirate Radio, Blackstar, Edge City - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...removes her flimsy top to reveal a strategically placed strip of gaffa tape covering her small modesty. All rather embarrassing, tacky and unsexy - much like their set... (Read More...)

08.06.06 - The Suffrajets, Violet Martinez, Phonic Rapture - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Shame you all missed it, but for those of us here we echo the sentiment - The Suffrajets, superb to watch, even better to listen to... (Read More...)

07.06.06 - Mendeed, Helmithian, Dryard, Seethe - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...delivered in a veil of frightening ferocity by a demented David Procter whose anger was apparently caused by group of folk innocently sitting down at the side rather than stepping into the mosh pit... (Read More...)

06.06.06 - Lauren Harris, Voodoo Six, Planet of Women, Hekz, Son of a Gun - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The front Diva's rasping voice is only matched by this peroxide blondes over-generous chest, which she thrusts out at the mosh pit at every opportunity... (Read More...)

03.06.06 - Skaville UK, Last Man Standing, The Ramblers - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I must make mention of the youngsters who skanked relentlessly throughout Skaville UK's set - kids, you were great!... (Read More...)

02.06.06 - Juniper Hollow, Angels Cry, None is the Number, Unclassified - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This rapidly maturing band displayed some super-charged emo heaviness for which the superlatives cathartic and epiphanic might well have been invented for...! (Read More...)

01.06.06 - The Ramblers, Lizard Kiss, Temples Burning - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With some good old drinking tunes, especially 'That Woman's Got Me Drinking' where upon they 'outshane' Mr McGowan... (Read More...)

28.05.06 - Portion, Belle de Jour, Sirenide, Recovery, Stranger, Funyamum - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Imagine if Gram Parsons had lived in the Eighties and joined Heaven 17. Their set is a sheer indulgence of soft sounds... (Read More...)

27.05.06 - Henry and the Bleeders, The Dilinquents, Liam Vernon - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
They buck against the trend of most youngsters who just follow the current flavour of the month, whether that be Ska-Pink, Emo, Metal etc... (Read More...)

26.05.06 - Sirenide, The Poppy Co-Deans, Jets2June, Rate of the Day - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...a gig I found memorable not only for the music but also for the fact they were all kitted out in Parkas (on a warm evening). Tonight they are back, this time as a duo and the good news is that the Parkas make a reappearance... (Read More...)

25.05.06 - Locus Control, Son of a Gun, None is the Number - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
They have experienced a lot of problems with the Police, so much so that they feel they are being victimised. A story that no doubt rings true with a lot of bands who journey up and down the country in battered old transit vans... (Read More...)

20.05.06 - Glenn Tilbrook - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight is all about that rose-tinted world we call nostalgia. The venue is packed full of middle aged folk with receding hairlines, expanding waistlines and, ironically, spectacles. However, they all appear to be extremely thirsty as I struggle to get served at the bar... (Read More...)

19.05.06 - Second Smile, Loveburger, Antec Sonata, Sidearm - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It deserves a slice of success for the somewhat whimsical slice of irony in the lyrics 'Looking back do you see what I see? Everything is clearer now, we're young and we're wrong!'... (Read More...)

18.05.06 - The Departure, My Passion, Trailing Laces - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Sometimes asking an Esquires crowd a simple question such as 'How Y'All Doing?' is not the wisest choice one can make... (Read More...)

13.05.06 - The Fifth Sid Worth Memorial Tribute Fund Gig - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Today would have been Sid Worth's 55th Birthday... (Read More...)

12.05.06 - Red Dollar, Phonic Rapture, First Born - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Joy or enjoyment were most certainly not words that I would choose when describing the previous band. Tonight, their tired form of rock would have come decidedly second best to watching paint dry... (Read More...)

11.05.06 - Isolation, Device, Emm - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Isolation could be best described as Slipknot without the masks and these guys should either be sectioned or quarantined!.. (Read More...)

06.05.06 - Fell City Girl, Voilet Martinez, Recovery - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
He also informs us during their set that they've had to invest in a new van as their old one broke down - ah, it's tough at the top in the music business...! (Read More...)

05.05.06 - Scratchplate, Gain, His and Herpes, The Inspiration - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Having had the bands that were originally intended to play pull out for a whole host of reasons, promoter Paul Craven had to hastily arrange a new line up in just a matter of days... (Read More...)

04.05.06 - Leaden, Self-Inflicted, The Off-Position - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
These hardcore metallers seemed to bring with them every conceivable facet of sound which has an effect not unlike being sonically stoned to death! ... (Read More...)

02.05.06 - The Newtones, Loose Baby Charlotte, The Anglians, Daniel Flay - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight's gig was all about raising money for a good cause. Since last October Students from De Montford University have been collecting money in order to send six P.E. students to Malawi, Africa.... (Read More...)

29.04.06 - Breaks Co-op, The Newtones, Jack Names the Planets, Emm - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The lack of 'The Zipper' is not really noticed. In fact, the bass player would not have looked out of place in the pack for the All-Blacks Rugby team... (Read More...)

29.04.06 - Little Joe Zero, My Coma, Symbo, Diminishing Syndicate - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This is a fast and furious assault as they blast out ten songs in little over half an hour. It's quick fire, sharp as a tack, a style that endears them to the crowd.... (Read More...)

27.04.06 - The Ga*Ga*s, Portion, Scratchplate - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
If you have not see this manic but very talented bunch of individuals I urge you to grab a Portion on that Sunday evening. You might need the bank holiday to recover from it!... (Read More...)

26.04.06 - Rick Witter and The Dukes, Exist, Ryen, Sniper - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
In fact, his between song patter was rather humorous, but at times it did get a little near the mark as he discussed with the front rows drug dealing in Bedford town centre flats and the appearance of the male genitalia!... (Read More...)

26.04.06 - Muckle and Friends - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It is quite surreal that on the eve of St. Georges Day we have this type of music and its unique atmosphere which transforms Danny's Bar into a Dublin or Edinburgh venue.... (Read More...)

21.04.06 - Enter Shikari, Juniper Hollow, Flood of Red, Losing Sun, Angels Cry - Reviewed by Christine Miller
There’s something for everyone as the band manage to fuse hardcore screams, catchy choruses, electro dance beats, deep rumbling bass, Van Halen-esque keyboards, dischordant, buzzing guitars, anthemic pop melodies, soaring harmonies and hand-clapped rhythms... (Read More...)

20.04.06 - Tribute to Nothing, The Tendons, Goodbye to the Bad Guy, A Trust Betrayed - Reviewed by Christine Miller
As the set draws to a close some particularly violent thrusting and contorting sends Sam’s mic flying into the crowd, but he doesn’t seem to notice as their deep rumbling makes the whole room vibrate... (Read More...)

16.04.06 - The Swamis, The Ravines, Full Circle, Craig Currie - Reviewed by Karen Jones
If someone had told me that a band with two Quireboys in them could have been worse than the whole lot then I wouldn’t have believed them. Towards the end the singer was repeating “How will you cope? Where will you go to?”. A good question. Downstairs to the bar for a quiet drink possibly.... (Read More...)

16.04.06 - The Swamis, The Ravines, Full Circle, Craig Currie - Reviewed by Steve Norman
Now, in the unlikely event that I am asked to name the most talented guitarist ever to grace this town, I’d have to pick two – one being the guitarist from an old band called Robed in Desire, the other being The Swami’s Paul Jackson... (Read More...)

14.04.06 - Jesse James, Failsafe, A Billion Ernies, Weightloss, Stepping Over Jenny - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
However, the controversial ‘Dear Jesus’, on this most holy of days, might be perceived as being a little near the mark... (Read More...)

13.04.06 - King Tut, Age of Sin, SandBuzzard - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A cover of ‘Knocking On Heaven’s Door’ is given a terrific ovation whilst ‘Mr Rock Star’ sees front man Adam losing his beloved baseball cap to a mate who dons it, does a quick gurn for his friends and then hands it back to the singer... (Read More...)

07.04.06 - Devil Sold His Soul, The Modus Vivendi, Khalo, Prize Fight Winner, Days Ruin, Elements of Refusal - Reviewed by Christine Miller
They’re sporting perhaps the best selection of perfectly coiffured haircuts ‘One For The Underground’ has seen for a long time. But from the off, the primeval, guttural growls, crashing drums and big catchy hooks prove that there’s more to this band than simply looking good... (Read More...)

06.04.06 - The Newtones, Unclassified, Loose Baby Charlotte - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A very intelligent and thought provoking group but, please guys, do everyone a favour and ditch that awful name!... (Read More...)

02.04.06 - Joan of Arc, Stranger - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Danny's Bar on a Sunday afternoon is usually the place to unwind and witness some restful but stimulating bluesy sounds with a couple of glasses of red wine... (Read More...)

01.04.06 - Mendeed, HeKz, Blackout, Paroxysm - Reviewed by Christine Miller
As lead singer David Proctor stands, foot on monitor, glaring intimidatingly at the audience like an army general preparing his troops for battle, the rest of the band deliver a stunning display of soaring guitar work to a sea of saluting devil horns... (Read More...)

31.03.06 - The Answer, Temple, OverEasy, Track Zero - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...gave a superlative vocal and visual performance that suggested when he is not on tour with his band he could be perfect as Robert Plant on 'Stars in Your Eyes'. (Read More...)

30.03.06 - Bullets to Broadway, The Fatal Mistake, Never So True, The Dilenquents, Hammerfluff - Reviewed by Christine Miller
Their objective is often to 'tell as many dick and fart jokes in a half-hour show as possible' – something they more than live up to this evening... (Read More...)

29.03.06 - Eyelash ~ 'Album Sessions 1' - Reviewed by Steve Norman
I’ve always wanted to publicly complain about one of the band fixing a promo sticker in the gents’ toilet at Bedford’s Esquires right in your six-feet one eye line when you’re standing at the urinals. So, when I was given the opportunity to review the new Eyelash CD, I jumped at the chance... (Read More...)

25.03.06 - The Tendons, Citizen Keyne - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This band are the musical equivalent of a top shelf magazine ... (Read More...)

23.03.06 - Flylow, The Antec Sonata, The 66 Kicks, The Anglians - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Not the smartest idea and as he aborts his mission Bedford Metal supremo Nigel see's his pint of Guiness liquidising on the carpet. I bet that doesn't happen at Donnington... (Read More...)

23.03.06 - Ella, Fell Silent, Machinate, Maya Deren - Reviewed by Christine Miller
There’s a slightly arrogant swagger about the band as they tell the growing audience to “feel privileged” at being treated to a new song, but with a set as brutal and confident as this, perhaps they’re allowed to be a little cocky... (Read More...)

17.03.06 - The Crimea, The Hot Puppies, The Replays, Red Dollar, Portion - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The dreadful version of Fleetwood Mac's 'Everywhere' that follows would have had Stevie Nicks choking on her fruit smoothies!... (Read More...)

17.03.06 - Rattlesnake Remedy, Sacred Mother Tongue, Sphere, Son of a Gun, Handsome Dan - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Perhaps they should follow the example of the big touring bans who come to Esquires but who are so much easier to deal with. A real shame... (Read More...)

16.03.06 - Aktualsize, The Poppy Codeans, The Hours, His and Herpes - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Since the beginning of time, bands have always had the same problem "What shall we call ourselves?" This acute dilemma befits our first band tonight. Originally calling themselves The Shits, this was wisely changed in favour of something marginally less offensive... (Read More...)

11.03.06 - Fastlane, Sirenide, Cool Ethan - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A Sky music channel is currently looking for a small intimate venue to film and ultimately showcase new and unsigned bands. Tonight is a dress rehearsal and Esquires is on trial... (Read More...)

10.03.06 - Bloc Party, Komakino - Reviewed by Rick Skilbeck
The band went onto to sell out The Royal Albert Hall, consecutive nights at the Brixton Academy, the Manchester Apollo etc and we quite sensibly assumed we would never see them at Esquires again... (Read More...)

10.03.06 - Bloc Party, Komakino - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The only setback to their rise and rise is having felt the acid tongue of Mr Liam Gallagher, who likened Bloc Party to a bunch of contestants on University Challenge. Kele meets Paxman, hmm... (Read More...)

09.03.06 - Hammerfluff, A Trust Betrayed, Anachoic Reflection - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The climax to the song features a stunning drum solo and guitars are hoisted into the air Stadium Rock style... (Read More...)

04.03.06 - The Automatic, The Marshals, Valentine Stitch - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
All those people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) are beginning to feel that the worse is behind them... (Read More...)

03.03.06 - Failsafe, The River Club, Kneival Genius - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Frontman James Norris is engaging, but his opinion on everything always seemed to feature the word 'Mint' - it must be a Northern thing... (Read More...)

02.03.06 - Despertate Cycle, Titan System, 1000 Hertz, Splitting Image - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
These guys could be loosely described as Rage Against the Machine meets Kasabian with the ghost of Augustus Pablo looking fondly down. All performed in a fruity Ska salad... (Read More...)

26.02.06 - Boy Kill Boy, Sniper, Amanaboutadog - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...the apparence of Boy Kill Boy that made this a sold out evening to remember. The buzz about them has been colossal, and more so since their single 'Back Again' hit the top 30 last week. When they play it tonight it almost brings the house down... (Read More...)

25.02.06 - The Modern, Eyelash, Overeasy, Longshot - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
For the majority of the evening, the must have accessory was a full barrel of lip gloss.. (Read More...)

23.02.06 - Lilith's Army, Maya Deren, Stranger - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Maya Deren have a sound best described as 'ear shatteringly loud' and I would have to say that they are the heaviest band we have had in Danny's Bar for a very long time.. (Read More...)

22.02.06 - The Feeling, Ryen, Seven Stories High - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A romantic, tear inducing, heart rendering ballad that has top ten hit written all over it and hopefully should crash into the upper echelons of the chart this week.. (Read More...)

18.02.06 - Dive Dive, Loveburger, Run Like Fun - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Dive Dive's front man was suffering from a bout of flu but he bravely fought on, telling the Bedfordians present if his voice gave way entirely their next gig was only in Cambridge... (Read More...)

17.02.06 - The Selecter, The Tendons, Weightloss - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
'Legend' is a word bandied around these days but tonight it was fully justified.. (Read More...)

16.02.06 - I'm a Helicopter Blades Inspector, Elements of Refusal, Dead Kids, Judgemental - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Unfortunately the vocals are painfully weak and barely audible. This is not helped by the vocalists reluctance to stand up, preferring instead to sit down and practically whisper silently into the mic... (Read More...)

10.02.06 - Henry and the Bleeders, Hooverhead, Dummy Run, Desperate Cycle - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Such is the respect that these boys have, there was the added amusing touch at the end of the evening of seeing local Punk legend Jon Tendon acting as a roadie... (Read More...)

09.02.06 - The Modus Vivendi, Nick Theodore - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Apparently Nick has been, on occasion, described as a mature James Blunt. Probably by someone who either doesn’t like him, or doesn’t like music... (Read More...)

05.02.06 - Hell Above, Blackout, Hekz, The Delinquents - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
There are certain music purists who look down at this sort of thing. ‘Kids music’ they sneer before they go and check out Coldplay or Keane or some other ‘proper’ or ‘serious’ act... (Read More...)

04.02.06 - Spencer de Vere, Sweet Tin Hoax, Seven Stories High, The Jumpsuit Collective - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Anyone who enjoys beautiful melodies, beautiful guitar playing and anything else beautiful would have thought this gig was...well...beautiful. (Read More...)

03.02.06 - Track Zero, Pirate Radio, Stepping Over Jenny, Citizen Keyne - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Disaster occurs at the end of their opening song as vocalist Pippa is caught on the side of her head by a stray guitar...... (Read More...)

02.02.06 - Jakobi, The Ruby Shoes - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...the track really annoyed me from start to finish - Don't worry lads, the tune was great but it featured a very familiar hook and I simply couldn't place where it had been 'borrowed' from.... (Read More...)

28.01.06 - Cord, Dumb Angel, Drift, Diminishing Syndicate - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
In a week where the country developed Arctic Monkey mania and Hard Fi and Esquires Old Boys Editors landed no 1 and 2 albums, it’s worth reflecting just how healthy and strong guitar music is right now.... (Read More...)

27.01.06 - Gain, Knieval Genius, Capo Jr, Craig Currie - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Stripped down and at its most raw and basic, neither intelligent or structured, it's like bare-knuckle boxing with guitars... (Read More...)

26.01.06 - Recovery, Peter Ouse - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
'Thinking of You' is pitched somewhere between Jazz and Grunge, creating a 'Girlvana' sound...! (Read More...)

21.01.06 - The Upper Room, Novacaine, Grim City, Heartbeat Assassins - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I'd like to think that after some thirty years of attending gigs watching some very dodgy bands in some obscure toilet of a venue I know a little bit about the alternative music scene... (Read More...)

20.01.06 - The Zico Chain, Juniper Hollow, Black Ramps, Last Man Standing - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The major debate at the tail end of 2005, whether it be on the Internet, in pubs, schools, or between strangers in the street was should Bedford's young post-hardcore four piece Bent Like Bob change their name...? (Read More...)

19.01.06 - Never So True, Blind Theory, Craig Currie - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Where else in Bedford on a Thursday evening can you see some top quality live music as well as hearing a DJ lovingly select some of the hottest new alternative tunes, all for free...? (Read More...)

23.12.05 - Henry and the Bleeders, Delinquents, Desperate Cycle - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It is strange to think that a genre apparently built on the ability to drink yourself into a coma and an inability to play your instruments properly should have proved so influential... (Read More...)

23.12.05 - My Awesome Compilation, Portion, THe Tempest, Drift, The Tease, Last Man Standing - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It was back to those crazy, crazy, crazy nights as Gene Simmons and the gang were brought back to the stage tonight for one night only... (Read More...)

16.12.05 - Enter Shikari, Fell Silent, Summerfall, Bent Like Bob, Red Dollar, Days Ruin - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton / Steve Norman
The lead singer held his microphone just like Terry Wogan, which I must say distracted me from an otherwise excellent set!... (Read More...)

09.12.05 - Sphere, Run Like Fun, Grim City, Fistfights and Brake Lights - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
They experienced a few technical problems which virtually reduced their 25 minute set to an elongated sound check... (Read More...)

03.12.05 - Red Dollar, Heartbeat Assassins, Sirenide, The Tease - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Don throws out loads of Red Dollar notes to the crowd whilst fixing them with a wide eyed expression which seemed to say 'Love us or f**k off!... (Read More...)

02.12.05 - Fun Ya Mum, New Groove Formation, The Swamis, Bent Like Bob - Reviewed by Pete Burridge
One thing though - if any of the band are reading this, my tip for 2006 is change your name!... (Read More...)

01.12.05 - Second Smile, The D.A.T.S. Squad, Broken Daylight, Good Cop Bad Cop - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Ahh Bournemouth! A lovely Summer holiday resort on the South Coast, but now that we are in the throes of Winter it's inhabitants appear to be on the move... (Read More...)

26.11.05 - The Suffrajets, Portion, Counterfeit Stitch - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
As my friend John said to me at the end 'Man, they were Rock and Roll!' They certainly were... (Read More...)

25.11.05 - Blondelle, The Perfect Crime, Citizen Keyne, Counterfeit - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
What we got were four young 'pretty boys' from London - one of them even wore a suit... (Read More...)

24.11.05 - Grim City, Forever Ends Today, The Conflict Theory, Gallows - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This was yet another band who insisted on subjecting us to needless and banal chatter between songs. It had no relevance to their set and was very, very, boring... (Read More...)

19.11.05 - The Enigma, Miksha, Flict, Sacred Mother Tongue, Neptune - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Their distorted sound was a cross between Kraftwerk and The Gang of Four. This must rank as one of the most surreal acts I have ever seen at this venue... (Read More...)

19.11.05 - Trader Vegas, Seven Stories High, Jumpsuit Collective - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I have to admit that halfway through their first song I wondered what the hell I was watching... (Read More...)

17.11.05 - Blind Theory, I Am The Door, OverEasy - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
However, an awful lot of their inane chatter between songs become very boring very quickly... (Read More...)

12.11.05 - Boy Kill Boy, Cool Ethan, Drift - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The lyrics tell the tale of a typical Saturday nights clubbing - too much alcohol, too little sleep... (Read More...)

11.11.05 - Bent Like Bob, The Fatal Mistake, Loveburger - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Prior to the gig I have to confess I had downed a few sherbets (perhaps too many!) with some work colleagues in a deeply depressing Wetherspoons pub in Bedford High Street. Arghhh - dreadful place... (Read More...)

10.11.05 - Last Man Standing, Son of a Gun, Symbo - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
To describe them would be to ask you to imagine Mark E. Smith fronting Motley Crue! Yes, they really are that surreal... (Read More...)

05.11.05 - The Return, Sirenide, Counterfeit, Kindred - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With a hypnotic Karen O'ish front woman in Llovonne, Sirenide are wonderfully compelling... (Read More...)

04.11.05 - Vanlustbader, Longshot, Citizen Keyne, The Cadelles - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Headliners were the wonderfully named Vanlustbader. No, not a new premier strength German lager but a rag-tag bunch of sleaze rockers from Brisbane, Australia... (Read More...)

29.10.05 - Ann and Floyd's Wedding Reception! - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It was a special night for Tendons guitarist Floyd who had married his beloved Ann earlier in the day. Tonight was their night and with their friends it was a celebration of all things Punk... (Read More...)

28.10.05 - <209>, Fell Silent, Blackout, Kaotika - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Imagine Slipknot as the houseband in 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'... (Read More...)

24.10.05 - Fightstar, My Awesome Compilation - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Sunday evenings are usually a time for quiet reflection, a warm glass of milk and Songs of Praise or Antiques Roadshow... (Read More...)

22.10.05 - The Perfect Crime, The Tempest - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It appears tonight was jinxed! Original headliners El Presidente had to pull out only days after being confirmed to play. Then The Cadelles went the same way a few days ago. To compound things even more, Tom Can't Fly pulled out at the 3pm on the day of the gig... (Read More...)

21.10.05 - The Modern, Eyelash, Portion, Aurora - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With their fingers firmly on the pulse of an 80's electro-pop sound that is so evocative, it immediately sends you reeling with excitement... (Read More...)

17.10.05 - Ektomorf, Disbelief, Betzefer, By Night - Reviewed by Steve Norman
It’s just a shame the Esquires stage isn’t bigger – you could tell that the two guitarists were just dying to sprint across it, criss-crossing in the middle, classic metal style... (Read More...)

15.10.05 - Richmond Fontaine - Reviewed by Steve Norman
So whilst I’ll probably never be seen again at an alt country gig, and definitely have no plans to buy a Ryan Adams CD, for a short time I too stood there transfixed, in a silence punctuated by respectful applause, utterly won over by something heart-breaking... (Read More...)

15.10.05 - Sirenide - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Although Level 2 has a mighty stage and sound system, the intimacy of Danny's Bar has that unique atmosphere where you are right at the heart of the bands performance... (Read More...)

14.10.05 - New Groove Formation, The Fallout Theory, Motionview Emergency - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
So your head starts nodding before travelling down to your legs and your feet as the tunes ignite all your muscles into a synchronized rhythmic movement... (Read More...)

13.10.05 - John Peel Night featuring The Delinquents, Conflict Theory, Blind Theory and Brakelights and Fistfights - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
John Peel day was celebrated here with at least 100 people giving their support and their money to the memory of the legendary DJ and The British Heart Foundation... (Read More...)

09.10.05 - Bowfinger and Friends - Reviewed by Pete Burridge
I spotted various musicians from Ocean, Henry and the Bleeders, Delicate Children, The Tendons, Cutting Out and The Quireboys amongst the hugely appreciate audience... (Read More...)

08.10.05 - The Glitterati, Easykill, Scratchplate - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I wasn't the only person present to think that The Glitterati's choice of music to enter the stage to was inappropriate and distasteful... (Read More...)

07.10.05 - Neon Zoo, Turncoat, Names For Enemies, Jess Mason-Wilkes - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
For me the best bits were when the cascading smoke entirely engulfed the band every few minutes... (Read More...)

06.10.05 - Howard's Alias, The So-Called, Self-Inflicted - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The boys were thrown a new song to play at the request of a member of the audience - namely the theme tune from 'Postman Pat' (and his black and white cat)... (Read More...)

30.09.05 - My Awesome Compilation, Cool Ethan, Run Like Fun. Drawing of the Four - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It was just like being transported back to 1977 when it was compulsory for all punk bands to play tunelessly for 3 minutes... (Read More...)

29.09.05 - The Subways - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
We saunter off home on a high with their tunes still rolling around our heads, safe in the knowledge that we have witnessed one of the best gigs seen at Esquires in the past few years... (Read More...)

24.09.05 - The Tempest, Reverie, The Tease - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
'Take You Away' was awesome, the britpop sound of their earlier songs giving way to a hypnotic indie-dance tune which was the best song of the entire evening... (Read More...)

22.09.05 - Kill Keneda, Garrett, The Walk Off, The Nectar International - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Yes, Esquires was treated to the sight of a band playing with a six foot bear doing his best Bez impression... (Read More...)

17.09.05 - Cravenfest 40! - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Happy Birthday Paul... (Read More...)

16.09.05 - No Hope in New Jersey, The Kites - Reviewed by Steph Nyman
A perfect mix of upbeat, retro rock, insanely catchy riffs and their own re-worked version of Kate Bush's 'Wuthering Heights' was worth the entry fee alone!.. (Read More...)

16.09.05 - No Hope in New Jersey, The Kites, Arconna, Drift - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Oozing both class and confidence, songs like 'Waste', 'Regret' and 'Invaders' pummelled the heads of the small but enthusiastic crowd.. (Read More...)

10.09.05 - Blackout, Thrinacie Sky, Trip Hazard, Tinitus - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A heavy set comprising such weird and wonderful titles as 'Paraplegic Rat', 'Nullo Freak Bitch' and 'Choleric'... (Read More...)

09.09.05 - Cry for Silence, My Minds Weapon, Aconite Thrill, Head Hung Low - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
These guys sweat by the bucketload... (Read More...)

08.09.05 - Days Ruin, Faster Destroy, Two-Shot Blast - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
What do Thursday nights conjure up for you? Quiet nights in front of the T.V. watching The Bill? A visit to the Cinema? A few drinks with your mates with the weekend so close you can almost smell it...? (Read More...)

03.09.05 - The Return, Heartbeat Assassins, The Cadelles, Mutiny - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The people who came to this gig and left before headline act The Return came on stage are, in my opinion, an utter disgrace... (Read More...)

02.09.05 - Phonic Rapture, The Tendons, Scratchplate, Capo Jr - Reviewed by Steve Norman
There must have been something in the air tonight – Jean Paul Gaultier’s latest fragrance or something... (Read More...)

02.09.05 - The Tendons Toga Party - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
As the show progressed, general debauchery ensued as Jon lost his toga... (Read More...)

20.08.05 - Summerfall, Fell Silent, Loveburger, Doubting Thomas - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight it is the turn of the local talent, and the question I ask myself is 'Can they kick it?'... (Read More...)

19.08.05 - The White Rose Movement, The Drawing of the Four, Reverie - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Imagine a soundclash between Kraftwerk, The Human League and The Subways... (Read More...)

13.08.05 - Nine Black Alps, The Red Star Rebels, We Start Fires - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The second Nirvana...? (Read More...)

12.08.05 - Send More Paramedics, P.S.P, The Nothing, Human Rape Symphony, The Smoking Hearts - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Having witnessed the band devour a vegetarian curry for their pre-gig meal, all their on stage antics fell rather flat for me... (Read More...)

06.08.05 - Mendeed - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
With Mendeen gaining massive airplay and superlative write-ups in ‘Kerrang’, I reckon the punters who left early might soon be regretting it... (Read More...)

04.08.05 - Enter Shikari, Saved by Zero / Mos Eisley, The Most - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
They played with a genuine swagger which is to be applauded when you are strangers in a far flung Southern town... (Read More...)

30.07.05 - Editors - Reviewed by Simone
Bedford Bedford Bedford, last night, you did yourself proud... (Read More...)

29.07.05 - The Next Nine Years, Bent Like Bob, Facade, The Return, Under Foreign Order - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight at a near full venue we witness five young and extremely exuberant bands... (Read More...)

22.07.05 - The Enigma, Bungalow Zenn, Blackout, Black Moses - Reviewed by Steve Norman
a lead singer who looks like Ice Man from Top Gun; great things could await... (Read More...)

16.07.05 - The Unstrung, Pirate Radio - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Did I hear someone say Meg White at the back there...? (Read More...)

15.07.05 - Absent Kid, Bowfinger, Chester - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It remains to be seen whether Absent Kid will be the next Coldplay or the next Terris (remember them?)... (Read More...)

09.07.05 - New Road / Doubting Thomas / Desperate Cycle / Blind Theory - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Resplendent in Tartan trousers circa 1976... (Read More...)

08.07.05 - Six Point Five, Hudson, Subversion, A Boy Called Hero - Reviewed by Steve Norman
One (female) member of the band just stood there naked (and shaved) under a plastic umbrella for the whole set ... (Read More...)

17.06.05 - The Eighteenth / The Kites / Stranger / Acosta - Reviewed by Steph Nyman, Beth Jones, Mel Linsell
In a surprise turn of events, fans of The Kites have their say... (Read More from Stef...)(Read More from Beth...)(Read More from Mel...)

25.06.05 - Born from Pain / The Stars have Fallen / Necrosadistic Goat Torture - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
For those of a nervous disposition, Level 2 at Esquires was not the place to be on Saturday evening... (Read More...)

24.06.05 - Dopamine / Henry and the Bleeders / Meretto / Fifth Quarter - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It may have been Glastonbury weekend but at Esquires we witnessed just as many varying styles of music, and certainly a lot less mud... (Read More...)

18.06.05 - Under Foreign Orders / Dummy Run / Weightloss - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
I am a sucker for a bit of brass... (Read More...)

17.06.05 - The Eighteenth / The Kites / Stranger / Acosta - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Acosta recently made a big impact when they previously played Esquires as part of The Battle of the Bands competition... (Read More...)

11.06.05 - Anti-Nowhere League / The Tendons / The Smoking Hearts - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
It was Andy Warhol who famously said back in the sixties that everyone will enjoy fifteen minutes of fame... (Read More...)

10.06.05 - Delphian Complex/Eyelash/Story One/The Tempest - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A good sized crowd turned out on a balmy Friday night to support four bands all with fairly differing sounds... (Read More...)

05.06.05 - Bowfinger & Friends - Reviewed by Pete Burridge
First a confession... (Read More...)

04.06.05 - Days of Worth - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight I can safely say I have witnessed one of the most exciting new bands to have played our venue for a long time... (Read More...)

03.06.05 - The Metal Weekend (pt I) - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight we see the first part of a double headed metal weekend... eleven out of ten full blooded metal... (Read More...)

28.05.05 - Ten Year Prospect / Little Black Dresses / Midori - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
...Unfortunately, they relied too much on stage antics and posturing... (Read More...)

07.05.05 - Tokyo Dragons - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
A good deal of old and new faces turn out to see them as headliners and once again they blow the crowd away with their heads down, irony free, stadium built anthems... (Read More...)

06.05.05 - Valentine Stitch / Bowfinger / Black Ramps / Drift - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Tonight a breath of fresh air was blown into Esquires as the new season of live music was ushered in... (Read More...)

01.05.05 - Day of Wreckoning IV - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The annual all day music festival came for the first time to the home of live music, Bedford Esquires... (Read More...)

30.4.05 - Thirst Club Battle of the Bands - Grand Final - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
So, after all the heats, all the qualifying rounds and all the bands who have played, we are down to the final four who have worked their way to the final... (Read More...)

25.03.05 - Tendons, Dun 2 Def, Overload, Drawing of the Four - Reviewed by Steve Norman
“Who bought a red nose for Comic Relief then? This one’s for you. It’s called ‘I Love Famine’”... (Read More...)

24.03.05 - British Heart Foundation Fundraiser - Reviewed by Steve Woodward
A great evening out with some of Bedford's youngest and newest talent on display... (Read More...)

19.03.05 - Battle of the Bands - Alias / Acosta / Chavius / Drive Like Casey - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Another review of the most controversial Battle of the Bands heats so far... (Read More...)

19.03.05 - Battle of the Bands - Alias / Acosta / Chavius / Drive Like Casey - Reviewed by Simone
One of the perks of this job is that occasionally, we get to witness 'behind the scenes' of our beloved Esquires... (Read More...)

12.03.05 - Battle of the Bands - Blind Theory / Summerfall / Phonic Rapture - Reviewed by Rick Skilbeck
The crowd on Saturday night underlined the enduring popularity of the Battle of the Bands Competition, with a huge mass of pop kids all queuing patiently outside Esquires when I turned up... (Read More...)

05.03.05 - Fifth Quarter / Pandemonium / The Zipper / Men of Unitus - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Before their set I managed to ask the band what their aims were, to which they replied 'Sweat, Fists, Fear, Death, Answers, Thrills, Money, Rabbit Noses (?), Blood, Noise, Hate, Love, Drink and Veganism'... (Read More...)

04.03.05 - Ramonas - Reviewed by Steve Norman
You want to hear my perverted little idea of heaven? A load of women dressed as Japanese schoolgirls playing Saxon covers in Esquires... (Read More...)

29.2.05 -Newborn Nemesis / Kaotica / Dead Funny - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
The packed Esquires crowd were held in awe as Kaotica went through a loud and electrifying set... (Read More...)

25.2.05 - Bowfinger - Reviewed by Steve Norman
Imagine, for a minute, that Shaun Ryder had been from Elephant & Castle, then somewhere down the line a local band – from Stockwell, perhaps – had formed and called themselves the Inspiral Carpets... (Read More...)

19.2.05 - Battle Of The Bands - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
Their 25 minute set was electrifying, combining well crafted songs with a strong stage presence....(Read More...)

18.2.05 - Graham Horne - Reviewed by Steve Norman
One or two of you might not know this, but I was once in a reasonably successful rock band. I gave it the full-on rock god – long hair, cowboy boots, tight leather trousers with half a cucumber down the front... (Read More...)

12.2.05 - Battle Of The Bands - Reviewed by Martin Stapleton
This is the second time I have seen this band and they have created a good impression...(Read More...)

6.2.05 - Stiff Upper Lip - Reviewed by Steve Norman
It's a well known fact (or at least it is now) that I only go and watch tribute bands if they're going to be funny...(Read More...)

5.2.05 - The Black Velvets / Portion / Vision State - Reviewed by Rick Skilbeck
Newport Pagnell's only claim to rock and roll fame is that it is mentioned in the lyrics of The Smith's 'Is it really so strange?'... (Read More...)

29.1.05 - Towers of London - Reviewed by Steve Norman
A big reputation to live up to is one thing, but sitting (apparently plastered) in Danny’s Bar two hours before the gig, dressed in the world’s tightest trousers with hair the like of which hasn’t been seen since the glory days of poodle metal, meant Towers of London had to do something special or they’d be laughed all the way back down the M1...(Read More...)

Please feel free to submit a review.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in these reviews contain personal views which are not the opinion of Esquires management, nor should be taken as such.