The Rialto Burns came on with the look of a band set out to conquer. Their atmospheric heavy sound and anti-authority attitude was suited to their cool black smoky image. A hint of Glasvegas came through. Songs suited to a bigger venue for sure, but it is only early days. Then The Little Comets appeared. These were in contrast to the above, resembling hippies from the 70’s, but produced sharp melodies in a clean guitar reggae/funk style that resembled a touch of Vampire Weekend. The singer was blessed with a unique voice.
Finally, Sound Of Guns appeared, by which time the venue was packed. They have generated a very loyal fan base from their self-produced album, so this was hoping to be a two-way relationship between the stage and crowd. The initial pounding drums instigated a gig full of energy, which their charismatic singer ensured. Swinging from the walls and standing in the crowd, Andy Metcalfe certainly made the fans feel a part of this gig as much as the band. He wasn’t afraid to make his presence felt, the sign of a front-man confident in his own and his bands ability. He loves the crowd and the crowd love him.
Their songs were obviously a major contribution to the great atmosphere, from catchy heavy numbers to more anthemic sing-a-longs all encouraging the crowd to join in. However, they’re not known for their conquering guitar riffs, just a few licks and an American nu-metal sound we’ve heard a thousand times before, but ten years ago. I get the feeling that Metcalfe’s presence carries them and gives them their fan-base.
Their songs, despite the catchy/drawn out differences where obvious, sounded very similar in construction and melody. If they are to be competition to bands in a similar genre, Biffy Clyro need not worry.
