Clubs

The Musician

with Midcity, Lacura and Fossa

12th June 2015

by Keith Jobey

A Friday evening, Clubs headlining the Musician, some great support bands, what could be better? Only the weather, that’s what. But a little rain wasn’t going to spoil this gig. At least we’re inside, unlike the music fans over at Donington Park.

It’s a bit of a scrappy start, Midcity was first up and are busy line checking as I arrive. But what at first appears to be a soundcheck develops into their actual set. Set times have been squeezed so they have to get straight into it. Not that it matters to the band, the soundcheck/set opener is sounding great, it’s the audience who are caught out. Midcity, I’m pleased to find out, are now part of the Luminous roster of bands (more about Luminous later). I’m also pleased to report that Leicester has at least another year of them before Uni beckons. Which is good news since latest offering ‘Needles‘, which they recorded themselves in a garage, is deservedly starting to get some great reviews. It’s a top quality set tonight with songs maturing as the band discover and develop what they’re best at. Dirty Smile is becoming a new favourite of mine. Come see why I keep making a fuss about this band on July 3rd when they have a headline gig at Sumo.

Another band associated with Luminous is Lacura. Playing their fourth gig in 15 days and with more dates already on the calendar they’re certainly aiming to get themselves noticed quickly. I still got that Black Sabbath sound I’d picked up on last time I caught them, it’s there during Stranger Things Will Happen and Peach. There are also bass lines that Hooky would be proud of and then there is the fast/slow/quiet/loud changes during songs adding depth. They’re good. And I’d add that if you haven’t seen this band perform yet then correct that situation, there are plenty of opportunities to do so!

London based Fossa are the out of town guests tonight. They’re a competent quartet with a folk-rock sound. Pleasant to listen too, with songs that get your foot tapping and head nodding. Slightly out of place in tonight’s line up I thought but crowd-pleasing nonetheless.

The slow and steady rise of Clubs continues. This gig being their biggest headline show to date and it brings to an end a UK tour. They also have some great festival slots this summer including Simon Says and T in the Park, where they’ll be on the BBC introducing stage (we might see them on TV). They’re also due in the studio again to record more tracks. As for the gig, the Musician has filled up, including fans at the front holding up a ‘We love you Matt’ sign. It’s a pretty comprehensive set from the band, with most of their songs getting an airing. A set that gets the crowd dancing, singing and partying. A set that shows off their excellent collection of songs, all delivered with confident ease.

So what is Luminous?

It’s essentially Clubs’ record label formed to self-release their music. Expanding to provide a home for bands that fit in with their ideals. Plans are in place for Luminous to release music from Midcity, Lacura and Gloss later this year.

Keep up to date with Luminous news by liking the Facebook page for Luminous Music Group.

Read about Clubs’ Wild Alive EP Launch

Read about Lacura at The Cookie with Midcity and Gloss

See also:

Our day at The Riverside Festival

Chris King Robinson in Leicester

Blackwell at The Cookie