Parva
Live at Joseph's Well on Saturday, 22nd February 2003
I don't know what it is about Joseph's Well, but even after numerous visits, I still can never remember how to get there. As it turns out, tonight I do so well, I even manage to turn up on time for once.
Mojo Pin are the first up, and instantly I recognize that tonight's line up is going to be of a very high standard. Exuberant rock 'n' roll is thrown at the crowd, which definitely increases in size as the howling vocals and screeching guitars break out from the stage, through the walls and into the bar.
Ryder have a slightly darker sound, but maintains the same amount of power. Their songs are driven more so by bass, as opposed to the manic guitar playing of the other three bands here tonight.
Mohair have come up from London, and have brought an incredible amount of verve with them. They are due to release their single "Superstar" on Monday, "Finally" they announce. It's bursting with energy, and is catchy. So are all the other numbers in their great set. "Versace Vixen" is a great, funky track. I think these guys may amount to be something special.
Parva have allured the largest crowd of the night before they have even taken to the stage. They erupt into their first number "Heavy". I, for one am overwhelmed by their instantaneous dynamism, which never fades throughout. Their single "Hessles" is probably the point where the audience just has to start moving. Vocalist Ricky's wild behavior and energy seems to be infectious. "Fortified Wine" sees drummer Nick taking lead vocals, which really emphasizes how tight they are as a band. "God bless America", no matter how unintentionally topical, brings an ironic smile to many faces. They even manage to fit in a great cover of "Eye of the tiger" (Which I'm sure they have their reasons for!)
All in all, they create the excitement that a great rock band should, and a lot of bands around don't. Their dreams might just come true, and they may well be on the cover of your magazine soon.