Attic Lights
Live at Leeds Metropolitan University on Friday, 31st October 2008
Bit of an eerie feel about the Met tonight. Not sure if it's because of the approaching Halloween, or the fact that the tax dodgers have fled to their holiday retreats. Never the less, what is lacking in numbers is gained by in eagerness.
The bulk of the crowd are here to see Paul Heaton, the maverick singer songwriter from The Beautiful South, whereas I have come to cast my eye over a young Scottish 5 piece with a new album release, Attic Lights.
It can't be the most inspiring sight for a band to enter a venue with a crowd the size of Elton John's make-up team, but the boys are enthusiastic and professional, launching straight into their set.
Variety is a commodity that the great bands have in abundance, unfortunately the Attic Lights are very samey and slightly repetitive. There are comparisons to be drawn to the Beach Boys, Weezer and The Fratellis on Prozac.
The highlight song was "God", a Granddaddy-infused upbeat offering that managed to stand out that little bit more. The 3 vocalists intertwine well, and complement each other's styles. A stylish and elegant performance by the band, which had most of the crowd on board by the culmination of the set.
To complain too much would be futile as there are many things to admire about the band. The lead singer is pleasing on the eye with bags of enthusiasm, and the layout and composure of the songs immaculate. A target audience will need to be found though, as the songs lend heavily to nostalgia and yesteryear; no need to turn off the attic light just yet.
