{"id":11123,"date":"2016-11-06T15:11:29","date_gmt":"2016-11-06T15:11:29","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/index.php\/?p=11123"},"modified":"2016-12-01T10:35:24","modified_gmt":"2016-12-01T10:35:24","slug":"november16","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.musicinleicester.co.uk\/index.php\/november16\/","title":{"rendered":"November16"},"content":{"rendered":"
<\/div>\n

Live Music in Leicester<\/h1>\n

for the month of November 2016<\/h2>\n

Music in Leicester<\/em> magazine\u2019s reporters and photographers have been out at gigs this month<\/p>\n

and here is what they found.<\/p>\n

To see previous months scroll down<\/p>\n

To see what is coming up over the next few weeks see our Gigs Page<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Coming soon<\/h3>\n

Saturday 3rd December, Abandon Her<\/strong>, with special guests, EP launch at Jukebox, St. Nicholas Place (top of the High Street), Leicester, LE1 4LD. Doors 730, tickets \u00a35.<\/p>\n

26th November 2016<\/p>\n

\nWhite Noise Festival
\nFirebug<\/h2>\n

by Keith Jobey<\/p>\n

Christmas came early when the White Noise<\/em> sleigh landed at Firebug on Saturday. Bringing with it a sack full of winter warmers to spread cheer amongst the little helpers who had come to watch and listen.<\/p>\n

It was a quiet opening as Deep Sleep<\/strong> tried to waken up the early doors crowd with their instrumental indie rock.<\/p>\n

\"Deep
Deep Sleep – White Noise Christmas 2016. Firebug.
Photo: Keith Jobey.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Moving downstairs it was the turn of Luke Broughton<\/strong>. Playing downstairs at Firebug is always a tricky gig, having to compete with the general bar noise, but fortunately it was quiet enough to appreciate Luke’s music.<\/p>\n

\"Luke
Luke Broughton – White Noise Christmas 2016. Firebug.
Photo: Keith Jobey.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Elizabeth Cornish<\/strong> played what is definitely her last gig in Leicester (unless she plays one when visiting) as she’s moving away before the year is out. I first saw Elizabeth play live at White Noise 2011 in pretty much the same spot, and between then and now, I’ve watched her band as it grew and developed, released a great debut album, then gradually shrank again to leave her last few shows playing solo again. Bon voyage and thanks Elizabeth.<\/p>\n

\"Elizabeth
Elizabeth Cornish – White Noise Christmas 2016. Firebug.
Photo: Keith Jobey.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Katie Malco<\/strong> often pops up at White Noise and Handmade. A few years ago she enthralled a quiet crowd at Bishop Street Church. Today she had to cope with the increasingly noisy downstairs bar, and despite an electric guitar and a strong voice, the bar seemed intent on making itself heard.<\/p>\n

\"Katie
Katie Malco – White Noise Christmas 2016. Firebug.
Photo: Keith Jobey.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Courtney Askey<\/strong> signed off for the year with a very strong performance, completing what has been a definitive year in their development. Next gig we’re told, will be the album launch early next year.<\/p>\n

\"Courtney
Courtney Askey – White Noise Christmas 2016. Firebug.
Photo: Keith Jobey.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Grace Petrie<\/strong>, like Katie Malco, had the main bar to contend with, but was aided by having a bigger crowd there to see her.<\/p>\n

\"Grace
Grace Petrie – White Noise Christmas 2016. Firebug.
Photo: Keith Jobey.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It’s been a great year for Kermes<\/strong>, relatively unknown at the beginning of the year they’re now a very credible band with some superb releases.<\/p>\n

\"Kermes
Kermes – White Noise Christmas 2016. Firebug.
Photo: Keith Jobey.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

White Noise regulars We Three And The Death Rattle<\/strong> continue to test out the songs from their next album. Shrouded in dry ice and dark lighting, with a back projection of static, it was a very atmospheric performance.<\/p>\n

\"We
We Three And The Death Rattle – White Noise Christmas 2016. Firebug.
Photo: Keith Jobey.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Ash Mammal<\/strong> were the last band I caught and they were on fine form. The photograph shows the passion they put into their songs but that only captures a smidgen of the energy they have.<\/p>\n

\"Ash
Ash Mammal – White Noise Christmas 2016. Firebug.
Photo: Keith Jobey.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Let’s Talk Dagger<\/strong>, Wiseass<\/strong>, Alma<\/strong>, the Woahnows<\/strong> and Johnny Foreigner<\/strong> all played too but I didn’t catch their sets. But it was another brilliant White Noise and hopefully plenty cash was raised for local charity LOROS. Fourteen acts and a disco for \u00a37, you always get value for money from a White Noise event.<\/p>\n

25th November<\/p>\n

Glastonbudget at The Shed<\/h2>\n

with Day of the Moon (Leicester), The Kut (London), Damage Protocol (Leicester) and Dead Frequency (Daventry\/Rugby\/Northampton)<\/p>\n

Doing a night at the auditions for next year’s Glastonbudget festival is always a good night out; not least because you get to see some good bands and there are usually a lot of people there. Tonight was no exception.<\/p>\n

Beginning tonight’s lineup was a new band from Leicester – Day Of The Moon<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Day
Day of the Moon at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This young six-piece band had a free-standing lead singer backed by vocals from the bassist and they also had a keyboard player. From the first bars of the first song my attention was riveted. Tight, sharp playing and strong vocals. These six young people played well together and the band’s performance was impressive. Most of what they played was songs they had composed themselves (original tunes) except for the last song, when they played a cover by Arctic Monkey’s Are You Mine<\/em>. Well, at least it wasn’t Look Good On The Dance Floor<\/em>. All in all, a very creditable performance.<\/p>\n

\"Day
Day of the Moon at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The judges certainly thought so because they gave them a place at the festival. Band members Tom Davis – Vocals, Dan Youngs – Lead Guitar, Ben Pullen – Rhythm Guitar, Charles Carter – Bass Guitar, Harry Gilmour – Keyboard, and Mark Zanker – Drums are aged between 15 and 16. A very large posse of fans had turned up to support them. I was told the band members all come from the same college in Anstey. I think this is a band we shall see more of in the future.<\/p>\n

The Kut<\/strong> was three women from London. The lead singer (and guitarist) was Princess Maha, Eli was standing in for their usual bassist and Diana Bar was on the drums.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Kut on stage at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Their style of music was “basement rock”, they told me; I was hearing punk, grunge and funk but hey that’s just me.<\/p>\n

\"Members
Members of The Kut at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A set of lively, bouncy songs rich in rhythms and bursting with beats, The Kut engaged the audience in their music, kept the party going and had the crowd jumping to their feisty songs.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Kut at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I met them after their gig. They told me the band had been going for six years and they had played in Leicester before and have performed at Glastonbudget in 2015 and this year. They are on a 37-date tour of the UK. Soon after that they go on to tour Germany, taking in places like Cologne and Stuttgart and Mannheim. The band also played at Download festival where they were the winners of the #Dogsbedstage and have been featured in Kerrang magazine. The band has recently released ‘Rock, Paper, Scissors<\/em>‘ which available on iTunes.\u00a0Another interesting fact is that they have played before with Lilith’s Army – a band we like very much.<\/p>\n

Read about The Kut on Wikipedia<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Watch this video of The Kut performing at The Shed (by Kevin Gaughan)<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The third band on stage tonight was Leicester’s Damage Protocol<\/strong>. This trio has come a long way since they first started out; and tonight was one of the best sets I have seen them play, a sentiment that earned agreement from other members of the audience. They were on top form.<\/p>\n

\"Damage
Damage Protocol at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A set that was varied in style and tempo, all three of them had vocal mics and the guitar solos, with their effects pedals, were top notch.<\/p>\n

\"Damage
Damage Protocol at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was a performance that shone with energy and sparkled with electricity. They really came alive.<\/p>\n

Another trio in which all of them sang, was Dead Frequency<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Dead
Dead Frequency at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

An exhilarating cocktail of glam, punk and rock, they delivered a resounding finale to the evening. Tuneful and full of life, they kept the audience in the room and had them bouncing with their ballsy, high octane songs.<\/p>\n

\"Dead
Dead Frequency at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Strongly driven vocals from Matti Fantasi, pounding skins from Sam Thorne and belting bass from James Bourne added up to a kick-ass set that capped the night.<\/p>\n

\"Dead
Dead Frequency at The Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Even before they had finished, Glastonbudget organiser Muz came to the mic to announce that all four bands had been accepted to play at the festival.<\/p>\n

\"Muz
Muz on stage at the Shed, 25th November 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What a night!<\/p>\n

24th November<\/p>\n

Hitting Rock Bottom<\/h2>\n
\"Entrance
Entrance to Rock Bottom venue, in Silver Street, Leicester<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Tonight Jonathan Eve<\/strong> hosted an ‘open-mic’ night at Leicester’s new venue Rock Bottom<\/strong>. You might recall that Jonathan is in the band Whiskey Rebellion<\/strong>. \u00a0The headline act for the evening was magician Colin Skinner<\/strong>, whose act was amazing and funny. Artists sang and groups played and Poetman<\/strong> presented a set of his raps and songs. It was an altogether enjoyable experience.<\/p>\n

19th November<\/p>\n

Jonezy at The Shed<\/h2>\n

We report \u00a0on Jones the rapper’s birthday party at the Shed.<\/p>\n

\"Jonezy
Jonezy at The Shed, 19th November 2016. Photo: by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Carlos Stein’s Lord of the Loops<\/h2>\n
\"Carlos
Carlos Stein at The Shed, 19th November 2016. Photo: by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Carlos Stein<\/strong> is also known for being the ‘Lord of the Loops’, having a unique style of music that made by live-looping bass guitar and drum beats using various instruments and backed with luscious vocal harmonies, amplified with dazzling harmonica solos and captivating hooks. \u00a0It’s all rich in humour and cynical beat poetry.<\/p>\n

\"Rob
Rob Newton at The Shed, 19th November 2016. Photo: by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Rob Newton<\/h2>\n

singer Rob Newton from Loughborough entertained the audience with a selection of well known and enjoyable songs.<\/p>\n

Aztec Temples<\/h2>\n

Since this Leicester band first hit the scene in 2015, \u00a0they have gone to rise from playing support slots to headlining gigs and have toured outside of Leicester, playing in several key towns including Manchester.<\/p>\n

\"Shay
Shay and Conor of Aztec Temples at The Shed, 19th November 2016. Photo: by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The band gained a place on the roster of This Feeling<\/em> one of the UK’s leading rock nights. At the start of this year the band was awarded a place \u00a0in the top fifty of the Fred Perry\/This Feeling’s Big in 2016<\/em> list.<\/p>\n

\"Conor
Conor and Tom of Aztec Temples at The Shed, 19th November 2016. Photo: by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Aztec Temples is one of the featured bands in this magazine<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Aztec
Aztec Temples at The Shed, 19th November 2016. Photo: by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Tonight, returning to the stage of the Shed in a long while, they were on top form, delivering a set of their own songs that have become popular among the local gig-going fraternity.<\/p>\n

Jonezy<\/strong> is widely known for being a hard working music artist. \u00a0Whether performing at gigs and festivals around the UK or promoting issues he believes in, such as his recent work anti-bullying – #Keeponfighting – the Loughborough-based rapper always has something new in store. Known for his positive vibe and uplifting messages, he mixes together rock, pop and hiphop rhythms and beats into an exciting cocktail of songs that are driven by his relentlessly energetic stage performances.<\/p>\n

\"Jonezy
Jonezy and LackyC at The Shed, 19th November 2016. Photo: by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Supporting some of Jonezy’s songs tonight was fellow hiphop artist and long-time collaborator LackyC. The two artists have appeared together many times and their work complements each other musical and in terms of their lyrics.<\/p>\n

\"LackyC
LackyC and Jonezy at Coalville festival in 2015<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Over the years Jonezy has played support slots with bands such as The Vamps, OPM, The trinity Band and Shystie, as well as local bands like Strike Up The Colours.<\/p>\n

Watch this video (by Kevin Gaughan) of Jonezy performing at tonight’s show<\/a>.<\/p>\n

As it was Jonezy’s birthday party, the customary cake appeared<\/p>\n

\"Jonezy's
Jonezy’s birthday cake 19th November 2016. Photo Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Fans from Norway, Denmark, Holland and Wales had come to Leicester specially for this event.<\/p>\n

Also in the audience was singing star Alexandru, better known as a member of the signed band Suite16. Alexandru has been an artist who has worked with Jonezy many times in the past.<\/p>\n

\"Jonezy
Jonezy and Alexandru on the Loco stage on Saturday at the Glastonbudget festival in 2014<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

So, a party that brought together many old friends, some new ones and a selection of the rockerati of Leicester to enjoy some brilliant musical performances and have fun as you would expect to do at a Shed celebratory event.<\/p>\n

18th November<\/p>\n

Skam at The Musician<\/h2>\n

A night of running between venues to catch the most of what was going on. I could not miss a big show headlined by Leicester’s rock supremos Skam<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Even so, I was glad that I started my night at The Shed because I saw Impervious Mind<\/strong>. A very worthwhile experience.<\/p>\n

\"Impervious
Impervious Mind at The Shed 18th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

These guys had come all the way from Rome just to play at The Shed tonight. It was worth it. They bagged themselves a slot at the Glastonbudget festival next year. I very much hope that I will see them there; they were fantastic. Rarely do I get so excited about a band I have not seen before. Before they went on I had a chat with the group. The members of the band are\u00a0Singer – Andrea Furcas,\u00a0Drummer – Gustavo Pizzini,\u00a0Bassist – Matteo Battisti,\u00a0Rhythm Guitarist – Federico Pecci\u00a0and\u00a0Lead Guitarist – Ryan Mahawili.<\/p>\n

Although Impervious Mind had played in England once before, this was the band’s first time in Leicester. I asked the guys what kind of music they played: they said “energy”, “expression” and “sentiment.” They got it right. Their performance crackled with electricity, had a volcanic level of expression and has loaded with fine sentiments. \u00a0They have been together for two years, they told me. They were here tonight because they longed to be part of an English festival. They had a lot of good things to say about \u00a0music in England. \u00a0I for one will be at the front of the queue to see them at Glastonbudget, if I get to go next year.<\/p>\n

Also on stage tonight was The Mocking Jays<\/strong>. The band was featured in our round-up of live music in August<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Mocking Jays at The Shed, August 2016. Photo by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Tonight they put on an impressive performance. A set of songs that had balls. Heavy rock that sparkled with dynamism. \u00a0Jacob Smith packed the songs with passionate vocals.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Mocking Jays at The Shed, 18th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A sparkling performance from a band that is increasingly popular; and it’s not difficult to see why.<\/p>\n

Skam headline The Musician<\/h2>\n

If you do not know who Skam<\/strong> are; you can’t have been in Leicester for long.<\/p>\n

\"Leicester
Leicester band Skam at the O2 Academy in 2013<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This Leicester band is the longest-running rock band I know and I have been following them since very nearly the date they started.<\/p>\n

Our local area has spawned a large number of rock stars; one of them is Skam’s lead singer Steve Hill<\/p>\n

\"Skam
Skam at The Musician, 18th November 2016. Photo by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Bassists come in all shapes and sizes, colours and models but none of them is anything like Matt Gilmore<\/p>\n

\"Skam
Skam at The Musician, 18th November 2016. Photo by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

and as I have said before and delight in saying again, Skam has one of the best drummers in the business – Neal Hill, brother of the lead singer.<\/p>\n

\"Neal
Neal Hill of The Furies, at The Musician. in 2014<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Tonight The Musician was rammed- bulging at the seams with fans of the one of the most popular rock bands in the city, over a long period of time.<\/p>\n

Skam’s set of nothing short of sensational. It’s a total rock experience, the like of which you are unlikely to get from most other bands of their ilk.<\/p>\n

\"Skam
Skam at The Musician, 18th November 2016. Photo by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As a band they have written dozens and dozens of songs over the years, some of which we still remember but they do not play anymore. Their back-catalogue is extensive.<\/p>\n

As a trio their performances are marked with a sense of fun; they love playing; they love being a band and their loves love them back big time.<\/p>\n

Also at tonight’s show, was Tequila Mockingbyrd<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Tequila
Tequila Mockingbyrd at The Musician, 18th November 2016. Photo by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From Melbourne, Australia, doing a UK tour from October to December.<\/p>\n

\"Dig
Dig Lazarus at The Musician, 18th November 2016. Photo by Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Dig Lazarus<\/strong> is a local band that will be family to readers of this magazine because we have covered quite a bit in recent times.<\/p>\n

\"Dig
Dig Lazarus declared the winner of OBS 2015
Photo RhinFeroSs photography<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Tonight there was a buzz in the air, the kind of feeling not often found in local gigs, the whole event had an iconic feel to it. The lighting was spectacular; being amplified from the Musician’s usual setup by the technical wizardry of Jamie Borland. \u00a0One of the nice things about tonight, for me personally, was meeting folks I had not met for a long time, fans, relatives of the band members, members of the local rockerati, it seems like everybody was there. Definitely a night to remember.<\/p>\n

Read about Skam’s show at Leicester’s O2 Academy in November 2014<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Skam also headlined at the O2 in November 2013<\/a>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

17th November<\/p>\n

Badfinger<\/h2>\n

at The Musician with Kafkadiva<\/p>\n

Tonight Xander Promotions presented Badfinger at The Musician. The support slot came from Kafkadiva.<\/p>\n

Not a band I knew anything about before I saw them tonight. My musical experience does not go back very far.\u00a0As a jobbing music journalist it’s about taking it as it comes. But first some background.<\/p>\n

Signed to the Beatle’s Apple label in 1968, as an earlier group called The Iveys, Badfinger<\/strong> launched their career in 1970 with the Paul McCartney classic, Come And Get It<\/em>.\u00a0The original line-up consisted of Pete Ham, Mike Gibbins, Tom Evans and Joey Molland. Pete Ham was a Welsh singer and song writer until his tragic death in 1975. Pete Ham has been credited as being an early founder of the power pop genre.\u00a0Song writers in their own right, Badfinger followed with a string of hits: Come and Get it,<\/em>\u00a0made the Top 10, No Matter What, <\/em>another\u00a0Top 10 hit, Day after Day<\/em>, Baby Blue<\/em>\u00a0charted in the UK, US and Canada and Without You<\/em>\u00a0was a number one hit \u00a0on the worldwide charts.<\/p>\n

A number one for Harry Nilsson, Mariah Carey and many others, Without You<\/em>\u00a0was a Badfinger original written by Pete Ham and Tom Evans.<\/p>\n

\"Badfinger
Badfinger at the Musician, 17th November 2016<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Tonight we saw Bob Jackson on vocals, keyboard and guitar, Andy Nixon on guitar and vocals, Mick Healy on bass and vocals and Ted Duggan on drums.<\/p>\n

\"Badfinger
Badfinger at the Musician, 17th November 2016<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Jackson was the only member of the band who was in the earlier line-up, the other have joined more recently.<\/p>\n

\"Badfinger
Badfinger at the Musician, 17th November 2016<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

 <\/p>\n

The story remains one of music\u2019s legendary tragedies. Nevertheless, the band\u2019s popularity has not waned over succeeding years.\u00a0Badfinger\u2019s music continues to command critical acclaim with many of the songs featuring in the soundtracks of blockbuster movies and TV soundtracks. The smash hit series Breaking Bad<\/em> being one which put Baby Blue<\/em> in front of millions and it rocketed back into the Charts.<\/p>\n

Since the 70s, Bob Jackson, part of the original line-up back then, has consistently driven the Badfinger legacy with various Badfinger-related releases, performances, interviews, activities and events; one of the most recent being a Blue Plaque Concert in Swansea celebrating founder member Peter Ham, which raised almost \u00a33,000 for the Papyrus Charity in 2013.<\/p>\n

\"Badfinger
Badfinger at the Musician, 17th November 2016<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Most recently, Badfinger (featuring Bob Jackson) completed a very successful UK Theatre Tour in the Autumn of 2015 playing to over 20,000 people.\u00a0Looking now to build on the success of the re-launch, Badfinger are looking to promote their extensive back catalogue with live shows in the UK, Europe, Far East and USA.<\/p>\n

There is still a huge worldwide fan base eager to hear the songs performed as they should be. \u00a0In A Different World\u00a0<\/em>\u00a0is the new song by Badfinger featuring Bob Jackson.<\/p>\n

When Badfinger opened their set, the first thing that struck me was that they had three vocalists. That always impresses me. some readers will be aware of my predilection for singing bands. So, for me that was a good start. I sensed that the audience comprised people who had followed the band for some time and were familiar with their songs. It was very clear that the four musicians on the stage were all experienced singers and instrumentalists. I listened carefully to the way that Bob Jackson delivered his vocals; providing a richness of technique and expression; stylish and distinctive in sound.<\/p>\n

The band’s long history and substantial back catalogue of music has sustained it and brought a new following. In a city where new bands and new music is the bedrock of our culture, Badfinger’s presence in Leicester is a welcome reminder of the persistence and tenacity of songs that people love.<\/p>\n

The show was opened by Kafkadiva, a band whose home town is Leicester. Louise Wilson on vocals and guitar, Steve Chilton on bass and on the drums Tony Norris. The band’s set of lively pop rock tunes delighted the audience, me included.<\/p>\n

11th November<\/p>\n

Rock Bottom<\/h2>\n

Dreaming In Colour Productions presents a new venue – Rock Bottom – at Silver Street Leicester<\/p>\n

with Leader, Aztec Temples, Ronoc and Steve Marsden.<\/p>\n

It has been a long time since a new live music venue opened in Leicester. Tonight’s show – presented by Dreaming In Colour Productions<\/strong> – marked the introduction of Rock Bottom, a hip new basement venue in Silver Street, adjacent to the Lamp Lighters bar.<\/p>\n

The first thing you notice about this place is the decor. It’s hip. Cool. Retro. Different. From the underfloor lighting of the stage through to the seating made to look like Cadillacs, the room has a New York 60s feel to it. There are plenty of places to sit, if you don’t want to stand at the front.<\/p>\n

\"The
The venue, Rock Bottom, Silver Street. November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sound system for the stage produced good quality music. The toilets were clean. The bar prices were not bad. All in all, a pretty good place to go to see bands and it will, I reckon, take over from The Shed if and when it closes for the early part of next year.<\/p>\n

\"The
The venue, Rock Bottom, Silver Street. November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
\"The
The venue, Rock Bottom, Silver Street. November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I had a really good night at Rock Bottom, I have to say. Not least because I met a load of people I knew, including my good ole friend Steve who opened the show. I remembered him from the days when he lived in Leicester and was the lead singer for Hot Frolics.<\/p>\n

On the line-up tonight: Leader, Aztec Temples, Ronoc and Steve Marsden.<\/p>\n

\"Steve
Steve Marsden at Rock Bottom, 11th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Opening the show, Steve Marsden<\/strong> began by saying he had just driven all the way down from Edinburgh – where he now lives – to sing his songs for us. Really nice to see him again after so many years since the days when we enjoyed him with his band Hot Frolics. I remember seeing the Hot Frolics on 9th March 2012 when they played the Original Bands showcase heat at The Shed. Steve’s set was really good; interspersed with anecdotes and comments that were funny; in fact I seem to remember he had a sub-career as comedian at one time. His performance was one of musical excellence and consummate professionalism. He knows how to play a guitar too – oh yes. A really good start to the night.<\/p>\n

I kept thinking I had seen Ronoc<\/strong> before. It might have been at The Shed last year when they played in the basement. Everyone thought they were good. The rock\/pop band from Loughborough is fronted by the singer Conor Dawson. I seem to remember seeing him at Leicester’s Got Talent in November 2015. Anyway, Ronoc was really good. Very enjoyable. Good vocals from Conor.<\/p>\n

\"The
The venue, Rock Bottom, Silver Street. November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Time for Aztec Temples. Again. I go to all their gigs when they play in Leicester. It’s the songs that do it for me. Brilliant. They looked good on the dance floor.<\/p>\n

\"Aztec
Aztec Temples at Rock Bottom, 11th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you want to more about Aztec Temples, see our feature articles about them<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Aztec
Aztec Temples at Rock Bottom, 11th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Leader<\/strong> came from the Oxford, Buckinghamshire area. The five-piece rock pop band was fantastic.<\/p>\n

\"Leader
Leader at Rock Bottom, 11th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Great music. Great singer. Very popular and successful by all accounts. There was a buzz in the room; clearly everyone was enjoying this set. Lots of positive comments from the Rockerati. Definitely want to see these guys again; come back soon.<\/p>\n

\"Leader
Leader at Rock Bottom, 11th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A good night out; nice new venue; lots of mates to see; some to catch up with; must go again soon.<\/p>\n

\"The
The venue, Rock Bottom, Silver Street. November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

See the Facebook page for Rock Bottom<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"The
The venue, Rock Bottom, Silver Street. November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

10th November<\/p>\n

Wakeup Promotions at Duffy’s
\nwith The Sedations, Budgie Smugglers and No More Heroes.<\/h2>\n

Paul Collins was buzzing around at Duffy’s Bar tonight; making sure everything ran smoothly for his show. Which it did.<\/p>\n

One Leicester band that has been going for a long time is The Sedations<\/strong>. They played one of their own songs – Monkey Brains<\/em> – which I remember from a previous gig. One of Leicester’s longest established punk bands, they gave us a set of fast and furious songs that raised the roof. This was a band that I saw on 15th February 2015 but that was just one of many.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Sedations at The Shed February 2015<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Budgie Smugglers<\/strong>. What fun! always good to see this band; they are just so very enjoyable. They were our band of the month<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Budgie Smugglers at The Donkey, 24th September 2016. Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

No More Heroes<\/strong>. Wow! These guys have certainly come on. As someone said to me “these guys are good.” Well, I wholeheartedly agreed with that. They scored a big hit recently when they headlined one of the Glastonbudget auditions. I always thought they were good. Now it looks like they have notched up a couple of levels.<\/p>\n

\"No
No More Heroes in October 2013.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Watch out for the band’s EP; look for it on Facebook.<\/p>\n

\"No
No More Heroes at Western Park festival 2016.
Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

5th November<\/p>\n

Upstairs\/Downstairs<\/h2>\n

at The Shed<\/p>\n

Upstairs\/Downstairs<\/em> is a long-running series of shows put on at The Shed by Dreaming In Colour Productions.<\/p>\n

Tonight’s line-up was Felix, Homeless Shakespeare, Vienna Ditto and The Surrealists. In the bottom bar Brandon Neal, Mind Step, Gunk and Waldorf.<\/p>\n

It was a good night of music; the audience had a lot of variety from which to choose. Some acts were on the main stage; some downstairs, so people had to divide themselves between the ones they wanted to see. Two acts stood out for me.<\/p>\n

The Surrealists<\/strong><\/p>\n

Great moshing in the marsh. Heavy. What an atmosphere, \u00a0Crazy guys. Wonderful.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Surrealists at The Shed, 5th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

They came on at that end of the evening when you just don’t care anymore. After the wall the death the audience was asked to do alien geometry, dancing. Moments of madness. It was electrifying. Mind-bending volcanic music. Not a band you could easily ignore. Utterly crazy and completely wonderful.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Surrealists at The Shed, 5th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Vienna Ditto<\/strong><\/p>\n

Two artists brought something quite unique to the stage. They were different. I liked what they did. It had a vibe. One vocalist and a guitar-playing operator of electro stuff. They had style.<\/p>\n

\"Vienna
Vienna Ditto at The Shed, 5th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

They were hip. Producing music that was fresh and original. Interesting and intriguing. I like the kind of music that goes over the threshold. The stage looked like Jodderal Bank, there were so many wires and boxes.<\/p>\n

\"Vienna
Vienna Ditto at The Shed, 5th November 2016.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Out of this tangled spagetti of electronics they produce incredibly good music. They were shit hot.<\/p>\n

Brandon Neal<\/strong> – as awesome as ever. Good to see Waldorf<\/strong> again after so many years.<\/p>\n

So there you have it; nights at the Shed. Drink, dance and be merry.<\/p>\n

4th November<\/p>\n

The Graveltones<\/h2>\n

at the Soundhouse<\/p>\n

with Freddie Webber, The Tom McCartney band and Ross Connor.<\/p>\n

Tonight’s show was put on by Casbah Music Management and Promotions<\/strong>. They have been running shows in Leicester for some time and the name (or if you like the brand) has become established.<\/p>\n

Opening the show, \u00a0Freddie Webber<\/strong> did a solo set. \u00a0He tours with The Graveltones. \u00a0Originally from Wickford in Essex, Freddie now is based in London I think. Tonight he gave us the benefit of his fine, strong voice which he used with plenty of personality. His set of songs held the attention of the audience. \u00a0Vibrant, rhythmic, full of engagement, his set made a good start to the evening.<\/p>\n

\"Freddie
Freddie Webber at the Soundhouse, 4th November 2016.
Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Back in July I was at the Soundhouse when Casbah put on a young singer from Nottingham called Tom McCartney<\/strong>. That was a memorable experience; as I said at the time ‘He sings blues and country. At 16, McCartney\u2019s performance was remarkable.’ \u00a0His voice sounds very much older than he is. Tonight Tom was back with his full band and a set of songs rich in Delta blues and 12 bars. Very Feelgood. With a backing vocalist, the songs and including six musicians overall, it was an impressive set; a one that was most enjoyable.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Tom McCartney band at the Soundhouse, 4th November 2016.
Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Ross Connor<\/strong> plays guitar and sings; Carl Wallace plays the drums. \u00a0Two-piece bands have been appearing around here quite a bit recently. Like tonight’s headline act, this duo makes music like a full band. As Ross said when he started “we’re gonner make a racket”; possibly true but their set of rocky songs was delivered with plenty of passion and gusto.<\/p>\n

\"Ross
Ross Connor at the Soundhouse, 4th November 2016.
Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

They have released a video which can be viewed on Facebook<\/a>. It’s called\u00a0I don’t care<\/em>. \u00a0Ross Connor<\/strong> is a blues guitarist and singer\/songwriter, from Milton Keynes. \u00a0I read that he started playing the guitar when he was 12. \u00a0His songs had a heavy resonance but were firmly planted in the blues. Rich in compelling beats and rhythms, the audience lapped it up with relish. Think Clapton. \u00a0Think Johnson. \u00a0Think Hendrix. and you will be thinking about Connor.<\/p>\n

\"Ross
Ross Connor at the Soundhouse, 4th November 2016.
Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

When tonight’s headline band was introduced, the audience broke into sustained enthusiasm. Clearly, the bands were among their friends. \u00a0The lead singer of the Graveltones<\/strong> had a distinctive voice; staccato style, edgy, raw, penetrating, jagged – the two musicians full the room with a considerable set of sounds. \u00a0What they did was exhilarating and the audience crowded to the front to get as close as possible to the action.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Graveltones at the Soundhouse, 4th November 2016.
Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Powerful, rocky, compelling, full of intense passion and delivered with a true rock-star quality performance, the vocals of Jimmy O were astonishing. \u00a0Backed by Mikey Sorbello on drums.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Graveltones at the Soundhouse, 4th November 2016.
Photo: Kevin Gaughan.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was an extraordinary set; one that people will not be likely to forget in a hurry. Full marks to Casbah for having the insight to book them and for putting on a night which offered something rather different.<\/p>\n

\"youtube\"<\/p>\n

Watch this video of the Graveltones at The Soundhouse by Kevin Gaughan<\/a>.<\/p>\n

On 2nd December The Tom McCartney band will be supporting Little Brother Eli with The Feverkicks, at the Soundhouse. Another CashbahMMP show.<\/p>\n

3rd November 2016<\/p>\n

Brix & the Extricated
\nThe Musician<\/h2>\n

by Keith Jobey<\/p>\n

Sometimes you have to trust someone, believe them when they tell you to come along to see a band you’ve never listened to before. There were two other gig options I could had picked out, both brilliant options, but in the end I put my faith in my friend and went to see Brix & the Extricated at the Musician, a faith that was well rewarded.<\/p>\n

Gestalt<\/strong> were first support, a band I’ve never seen live before but one I often listen to online. The four-piece have a punchy, abrasive punk style with a side order of electro and set the tone for the evening both musically and age wise. For it is fair to say the bands and the crowd are from an older era.<\/p>\n

\"Gestalt
Gestalt at the Musician, 3rd November 2016.
Photo: Keith Jobey<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The inclusion of Jesuscarfish<\/strong> on the bill helped convince me to head to this gig. A band that never disappoint, and a band I’m always on the lookout to catch live. Richard’s Bones<\/em> didn’t feature (dead and buried apparently) but the excellent Repetition<\/em> was there along with a number of new songs. One that immediately stuck with me was Don’t Trust The Hollowman<\/em>. They went down well with the decent size crowd who had come out to see the headline act, perhaps because of their similarities.<\/p>\n

\"Jesuscarfish
Jesuscarfish at the Musician, 3rd November 2016.
Photo: Keith Jobey<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The history of the Fall<\/strong> is far too long and complicated to go into here, so I’ll only briefly point out that Brix<\/strong> was an influential figure in their history. She met and married Mark E Smith in 1983 and joined the band on guitar and vocals, remaining with them until their divorce in 1989. After numerous other projects, in 2014 she formed Brix & the Extricated<\/strong> with fellow former Fall members Steve and Paul Hanley.<\/p>\n

\"Brix
Brix Smith-Start at the Musician, 3rd November 2016.
Photo: Keith Jobey<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Inevitably, there were some Fall songs in the set, songs from the period that featured Brix and the Hanley brothers. These were mixed with a number of her new Extricated songs, which without being informed by my learned colleague I wouldn’t have been able to say were from different times. In some ways this is the Fall gig that the Fall won’t do, featuring some of the more poppy accessible numbers from the earlier times. A very satisfying night for the avid fans who were there. The band have signed a record deal and an album is due soon, so hopefully they’ll be back in Leicester to promote it.<\/p>\n

\"Brix
Brix & The Extricated at the Musician, 3rd November 2016.
Photo: Keith Jobey<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

See also:<\/p>\n

Our roundup of live music in October<\/a>.<\/p>\n

September’s round up of live music<\/a>.<\/p>\n

See what we wrote about this year’s Leicester Oxjam Takeover<\/a>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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