James Arden checks out the garage rockers latest album.
The Christian rock band from Brighton bring religion to the masses.
Recipe for modern R'n'B album: liberal helpings of guest rappers and an overdose of sexual euphemisms.
After hearing one or two of their songs prior to the gig I wasn't really sure what to expect from support act The Wallbirds, but I was pleasantly surprised!
Originally from Doncaster, the band have a cocky confidence in their act which rather than being irritating, actually gives them the boost they need to be really enjoyable with their country folk rock set up. Walt, the lead singer kept apologising for the poor state of his harmonica which in his words sounded like a 'cat being raped by a dog'. You need not worry Walt! Looking round the audience, it can't have been half as bad as you say as everyone looked to be enjoying themselves regardless.
Well. Where to start in trying to describe a Hijak Oscar gig? The band consists of five guys and a girl and as soon they get onto the stage their energy is infectious- I was down at the front giving it all I'd got and dancing the night away.
Each of the band member plays their part, seemingly in their own little world, oblivious to the rest. There is the strumming of the guitar by the guitarist who cannot stay still; the guy at the back who is just beating the hell out of the drum kit with force; the girl with the haunting voice singing of troubles beyond her years; the keyboardist who seems to have invisible stings to your feet making them tap along involuntarily while the harmonica sings its sad and lonely song and finally, finally we have the bassist backed by the eerie blue light with his retro shirt and his black and white shell glasses glinting under the spotlight.
Yet, somehow, despite all the movement and chaos on the small Fibber's stage, they come together as a whole, with a bluesy rock mixture that lulls you in and makes you want to close your eyes and do the same- forget the world around you and just lose yourself in the music.
This was the second time I have seen them live and I fully intend to go again as originally the group are from good ol' York, and frequently come back to visit us. And so my advice to you dear readers?-If this mini vudu-blues army sound to your liking with their sorrowful and questioning lyrics-GO GO GO next time they are here! Money well spent.
They are also warning us a second album this year, and played some of the new songs from it which sounded rather promising! Bring on the new album I say!
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