Last Thursday was the latest addition to Pulp Promotions phenomenal back catalogue of gigs at Bath’s renowned Moles club. The heavily tipped Slow Club headlined with the west country’s own; The Cedar and the welsh Shins; Tournaments in supporting roles.
It’s always difficult being the openers, especially when the main act don’t draw the largest of crowds but I think Tournaments managed to pull it off even with a slightly muddy sound. This little indie rock piece draw strong parallels with The Shins, which I’m aware I’ve already mentioned, but it’s unavoidable listening to their recorded material even though they produce a much more powerful sound live. Tournaments are a lively bunch who work incredibly well, but I’m all too aware that the style they’re playing has been done before.
Tournaments on Myspace – Check out ‘Boldest Of Colours’ & ‘Turn & Run’
The middle spot was filled by the almost ethereal folk five-piece The Cedar, who are rather understated but produce an sublime sound with just the right amount of complexity. This is a group of musicians who are clearly having fun making some beautiful songs, if a little soft for my tastes at times. The Cedar are producing quintessential English folk music that’s almost updated for the 21st century.
The Cedar on Myspace – Check out ‘All Your Stories’ & ‘I’m Always Explaining To Mom’
Flowers on drum kits and big fluffy hats can tell you most of what you need to know about Slow Club. Quirky amusing lyrics and giggling are what will draw you back to see them over and over again. I rarely grin as much as when this Leeds originating duo mount the stage and minstrel about to emit their jaunty sunshine folk songs. The NME are correct in saying that they should be annoying but their silly rhymes inspire me all the way to the love heart shop to buy a thousand and write a poem with them. This is how Slow Club make me feel, and hopefully they’ll make you skip around your bedroom with no need for narcotics.
Slow Club on Myspace – Check out ‘me and you’ & ‘apples and pairs’
I think it’s fair to say; thank you pulp, you made my week.
Here are some pictures (I forgot my camera).
Slow Club don’t bathe together.
The Cedar probably own a loom museum.
Tournaments may be trapped but seem fine.
