The band explores several rock sub-genres (blues, hard rock, punk, psychedelic, classic rock) without necessarily being defined by one in particular. Their songwriting reflects the lifestyle they lead as young musicians living in the big city: nightlife, relationships and personal experiences.
The phrase ‘lose yourself in the music’ would also be appropriate as there were several moments when I found myself, eyes closed, listening to the music feeling like I was the only person present in the audience.
A residency in a small underground club, 2 guitars, bar stools and a glass of whiskey at the side is what is needed for music like this. Cormac’s Northern Irish lilt gives each story that additional layer of warmth and the songs themselves just ooze emotion.
Monroe’s stage presence is that of a man who permanently has his bits wired to a 12 volt car battery. He jumps, twirls, shouts, yelps, screams and sings in equal measure. He could recite the Encyclopedia Britannica from A through to Z on stage and the fans would still lap up every single word uttered.
The screening was follow by a wonderfully open and honest Q&A with Comic Strip Presents creator, actor and Producer of Bad News, Peter Richardson and Nigel Planer. Who could ask for more Alan…Sorry I mean Vim?
Something You Love, an album highlight also ticks the boxes that make the blue collar men nob and sob into their beers as he sings about running into an old friend, swapping stories, having a few drinks etc… The company has closed he finds out, budget cuts and setbacks so it’s time to get out there and do… something you love! Springsteen would be proud!
With no less than half of the songs from the new album included in the set, the band are currently playing to packed houses with a setlist that proves just how current they remain.
There is absolutely no let up for the next ninety minutes, blending thrash and punk, as Kyle Thomas bounds around the stage showing off the obvious influence, both in vocal style and stage presence, he had on Phil Anselmo prior to the release of Pantera’s ‘Cowboys from Hell’.
Words & Pictures: Adrian Hextall \ MindHex Media There aren’t many bands whose last output was some 25 years ago that can pack out a venue like the Roundhouse not once but two nights in succession. The Sisters of Mercy are not however your average band going through the motions on the nostalgia circuit. They […]