Solo
Live at Joseph's Well on Saturday, 18th August 2001
The last time I reviewed QUICKLIME, from their demo tape, I complained about poor vocal qualities. Unfortunately, poor vocals were again in evidence tonight. Playing a style of rock that sits around alternative/indie, the three-piece need some serious work in order to progress. Musically, they are ok, but my friend hit the nail on the head when he said, "an average, sixth form rock band".
FLIPSIDE followed and didn't suffer such problems as their vocalist was pretty much spot on all night. Technically they are good musicians, however their problem was a failure to excite. Except for the odd moment (one particular song was actually very good) most of their set was a little dreary and add this to the fact that they look nothing like a band - a poor mismatch for a stage presence - they appear stuck in a pub rock band situation.
At this point, if you're thinking I may have had a bad night with nothing good to say, then that's not true. I spent the evening discussing which bands I would be reviewing at Leeds Festival, and therefore, perhaps, the local bands on show tonight were getting scrutinised more than usual.
So onto tonight's headliners, SOLO, a band I've heard a lot of good things about. They didn't disappoint. An early Travis style, coupled with a mix of electric and acoustic guitars and an intriguing vocalist the young band are definite prospects. A talented bunch of lads, their youth should give them time to mature and iron out their sound.
Hopefully they will develop their songs more - there isn't a single yet - but "potential" is an understatement. Solo spoilt it with a cover of "Yellow", something they didn't have to do. A band I'll keep an eye on.