Make Model
Live at Cockpit on Saturday, 3rd November 2007
With a name like Make Model it reminds me of a time before cybernetting and interblogging; an innocent time when opening one's Christmas or birthday presents was a joy to behold. Finding the latest Hornby train-set or Airfix behind the shoddy gift-wrap filled one with an immense sense of joy and gratitude, and this was exactly what the well informed few at the Cockpit were witness to tonight.
Make Model, a Glasgow based collective, provided a masterclass in what a modern pop band should be striving to achieve. Their gradually building epic songs manage to win over the diminutive crowd, with soaring harmonies reminiscent of the current purveyor's of indie chic Arcade Fire. Songs organically grow into beautiful symphonic structures driven by a mixture of irregular time-signatures and pulsating rhythm provided by Ray Black on drums and former Fickle Public bass player JC. There were a few technical hiccups in tonight's performance which the band dealt with well, through charm and personality so lacking by many bands today. Overall the set was a triumph with the future single "The Was" (release November 19th on EMI), "Czech Neck" and "Sickness" providing the standout moments.
Finally, it's encouraging to see a fully fledged Major label backing a great band with fantastic tunes and not just sitting back on their laurels and signing the next Lily Allen / Babyshambles dole dodgers. With such a wealth of original, intelligent music, who knows what the future may have in store for Make Model. This night may well turn into one of those, "I was there" moments. Just make sure you are there the next time Make Model role into town.
