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HeartRock Live Review - The Globe 24/5/15

Last night, the Globe in Newcastle played host to an incredibly diverse range of performers. Starting the night off was an acoustic set from singer/songwriter The Gentleman Busker. Imagine Frank Turner took inspiration from Mumford and Sons riffs (minus the banjo). His first number, 'Forget to Regret' featured vivaciously strummed guitar, coupled with booming vocals that exuberated emotion in an upbeat, soulful manner. He followed this vigorous number with an haunting ballad entitled 'Unfair Despair', that privileged the audience with a truly heart breaking tragic tale about the short life of his baby brother. The song was a manifestation of raw emotion, projected through protracted power notes which allowed the audience to fully appreciate the sentiment behind the song. The song was heightened by charmingly looped guitar loops that resembled a child's lullaby. My only criticism of The Gentleman Busker, is that occasionally his lyrics were a little clumsy or crass. If he adopted a more sophisticated or mature tone his poignant messages could be delivered more effectively. Overall however, he is a very talented performer and a pleasure to listen to. 
Second up was the Ely Guns, who's music is the epitome of British Indie rock, drawing parallels with the likes of The Smiths, Pigeon Detectives and The Courteneers. Their sound is a fusion of hearty bass lines, lively drums and infectiously catchy guitar riffs. Front man Michael joked that the band were an "80's rip off", however this only proved the humble roots of the band. It is apparent that the era has massively influenced the boys, however it is also the basis of their genre. Furthermore, their vigour and energy secure them as  a 'feel good' indie band, opposed to just a naff "80's rip off".
The next act of the night was the dynamic rock group, Elephant Memoirs. Fronted by a man who resembled a bluesy, rocked up Alex Goot. Their bold, gritty guitar and sturdy bass lines was driven by the explosive drums that would make Phil Collins proud . The vocals obtained a catchy indie vibe (especially in their stand out track: 'Champion of the Universe') that captivated the whole room, and was particularly engaging when coupled with their 'beefed up' guitar. The lads put on an absolutely fantastic live show and I would thoroughly recommend them.
Following Elephant Memoirs, was guitar rock three piece Wilson. The lads performed a variety of well executed covers, paying tribute to legends such as Arctic Monkeys, Biffy Clyro and The Strokes. All their renditions radiated an animated flair and passion for music, in a ballsy manner that has fuelled the angsty teen sound for generations. They had the whole room dancing and singing along throughout (especially when they played my favourite song - however I do not look good on the dance floor!) It's clear to see that the lads are brilliant performers, but they need to expand their musical horizons. Take the songs they covered so well and use them as inspiration for creating their own material. If they can do this, these boys will definitely secure themselves a spot in the local scene.
Concluding the night was the utterly bizarre but brilliant Smokin' Coconuts. I have never experienced a band with such a colossal stage presence. The group combined funky tunes that are perfect to get a grove on to with a wild and wacky, caricature persona. As well as being excellent musicians with a panache for groovy bass and 'larger than life' guitar solos, they're an absolute hoot to watch and are beautifully mad! I felt as though I'd been submerged in a zany 70's musical sit-com and they are without a doubt one of the best bands I've seen. They are the true sound of an eccentric!




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