The Beat Surrender

Through a typical working men’s time-warp and into the tardis-like back room of this deceptively large venue, it’s a crime to see this turn out for what promises to be a night of quality local talent. Fair enough, it’s a grim and cold Tuesday night but when Lapels spark up proceedings, the place begins to simmer nicely regardless.

The set revolves around their upcoming, debut EP on Louder Than Bombs Records. They play with a relaxed air of confidence that can sometimes come across as reckless or chaotic but there’s no doubt that their cranky, stimulating indie has something all of its own. Front man Tim’s intelligent wordplay and elaborate references to the past are key here and his jerky thin frame doesn’t let up for a second as the band effortlessly sail through their skuzzed up tales. Finishing with the Arctic cool of ‘Epstein Candy Masquerade’ and a much punkier version of ‘Russell San Diego’ than what features on the new Rhubarb Bomb CD, they could be tonight’s hidden gem.

The Spills on the other hand, are already starting to get a reputation as one of Wakefield’s best young bands. The sound is much beefier and they begin with purpose, careering through ‘Poor Health’ and the single ‘Safety In Numbers’. Screaming vocals over distortion heavy guitars and it’s like a feedback heavy jam session. That’s when they’re at their best, rather than the weaker Emo leanings.

‘Reactions’ is the closer and best track for me, they just seem to have got going before having to make way for our next act Fonda 500. A frankly bizarre lot from Hull who come over tonight and steal the show!
A welcome and needed groove is added through opening number, ‘Jemapelle Stereo’ and the biggest gathering of the night; begin to actually shuffle towards a boogie. Our singer is wearing a hat, complete with bear ears pulled right down over his nose and doesn’t seem interested in even being here, that is until he begins beat boxing a funky kick drum over the top, quality! Rolling drum machines and wild tweaks of sequencers combine surprisingly well over a traditional rhythm section.

‘Jenny#1’ and ‘Push Button Skillz’ ensure the contagious grooves continue, adding sonic blasts to grinding bass and a brilliant voice when he decides to stop playing the fool and sing with soul. ‘Electronique Bee 101’ rounds off a cracking set before more charismatic shenanigans creates two encore tracks, one blending break-beat funk with a deep bluesy feel recalling The Charlatans. Impressive stuff and they’ve certainly earned more fans than just me tonight.

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