The Beat Surrender

So, after weeks of text messaging and emailing, i’m ready for my first gig and my first review, and what a band to start on!! After meeting my friend in the local noodle bar and indulging in a few beverages to get us started we head outside into the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street and down to the venue. Our first impression when we get there is that the Metro Club leaves a lot to be desired and we start to wonder whether it is a sign of things to come. However, as we head inside and into a lively crowd, we realise we may be in for a bit of a treat.

First thoughts on arrival at the bar is that the supporting act Findlay Brown is not doing much to excite the crowd. Although my friend is quite clearly excited by his fetching spotty T-shirt. Red stripe seemed to be the drink of the night…but we didn’t let this put us off.

It’s time for M. Craft to arrive on stage and as the first song begins i am immediately captured by the beat. It’s a feel-good song and seems to be much needed by the crowd after the mellow tones of Findlay Brown. The atmosphere picks up. I notice there is a slight Latin feel to his music, and as the second begins, i pick up more of a parisian vibe. This song starts my head nodding and i notice a number of people around have joined me on that one. As it goes on i begin to hear elements of James Blunt and Jack Johnson, clear influences on the band, and the harmony created by the two female band members makes me think of the Magic Numbers.

The understated performance of the 2 girls allows M.Craft to inject passion into the music whilst supporting him and making it more than a solo act. Their use of percussion instruments really adds to the European feel of the music, for example a fan was used to create the sound of a cricket. It’s a brilliant effect. A trully talented band.

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