July 7, 2004
The Authentics had ample stage presence. Both guitarists were energetic, and with their rolling riffs, impressive yet subtle solos, and drums that smack you in the face, these guys were definitely stomping punk-rock that you couldn't help moving to. The vocalist/bassist had a cheeky geezer style husky edge to his voice, which suited their sound and although the lyrics were simple, they were well thought out. It was all very well practised, you couldn't pick fault with these guys musically. Perhaps lacking a little in variation, but a very enjoyable set.
3 Ring Circus were the second band on, and the first thing that struck, was the deviation between upbeat, distorted, and slower, melodic rock. Probably Stereophonics influenced. There was loud ringing guitar from the talented and only guitarist in the band, and although the drummer seemed uninterested, he played with conviction and confidence. Unfortunately there was no distinctive bass to their sound, the bassist couldn't really be heard. The vocalist showed the most enthusiasm and stage presence, but he kept himself well inside his comfort zone when it came to singing. 3 Ring Circus are one of those bands that could be awesome, they are certainly tight enough and talented enough.
Wagstaffe were as ever, utterly skankable! Good old fast, 3 chord ska/punk. The first few notes of this set put a smile on your face and leave it hanging there stupidly until it's over. The bright guitar and lively drums makes you want to go skateboarding or surfing or something! The bass player is impressive, with plenty fast fingers but also flowing smooth bass lines. These guys are so obviously well experienced when it comes to gigging; they had great crowd interaction and are flawlessly practiced. With their enthralling and energetic presence, they left you sweating and all skanked out. Wagstaffe's music is a soundtrack to good times.
Bazooka Joe are heavily distorted punk, which is certainly upbeat and gets you moving. It's a shame that the same energy that's behind their music doesn't come out on stage. They couldn't be more static if they tried, and this didn't do them justice. Most definitly influenced by bands such as NOFX, Dropkick Murpheys and similar, there is so much distortion only about 4 chords between the two guitars, that any distinctive bass sound was lost completely. The vocalist's voice showed signs of some weakness, especially at the 'not so rowdy' parts. Bazooka Joe are piss-head punk rockers with clever, funny and downright cheeky lyrics, and an upbeat set that warms the cockles like a good cheap whiskey.
Determining the winners of tonight's heat was a tough choice, all bands were top quality, but the honour went to the most experienced and most entertaining, Wagstaffe. So they go through to the semi-finals, with the winners of the next 7 heats joining them in good time. To see more pictures from this gig click here Review ~ Steph Photos ~ Andy 'Pyro' Butler
Written By Steph
Photos ~ Andy
