Nine Black Alps at the Duchess (22nd June) supported by Airship and the Federals. Only 2 of the Federals are playing tonight, drummer and lead guitar, and were better for it, reminded me of the White Stripes. Airship were a real surprise, somewhere between Arcade Fire and Interpol, I shall be looking out for these again. Nine Black Alps were as I remembered them from a few years ago - good songs, loud, heavy, energetic, passionate. Touring and record sales have given them confidence, they are better musicians and altogether tighter. Recommended.
Its Saturday (11th July) and Breathing Space at the Roman Bath, this is the 3rd time I've seen them at this venue and each time they improve. Tonight Bryan Josh of Mostly Autumn is standing in on lead guitar and they showcase several songs from their forthcoming CD Below The Radar. As a result is was an altogether rockier set but in keeping with their 'sound', I'm looking forward to the CD. The rain was pouring down as we left the venue so we headed over to a nearby shop doorway for shelter, where we spent an hour chatting, joking and speculating on a wide variety of subjects. It was still pouring down as we left but I didn't mind, it was a great evening.
