Cardiff Barfly
After discovering Hiding Place at a Rasmus gig, I just had to go and watch them when I found out they were playing my home city. The Barfly is only a small venue and I remember it from years ago when it was a pre-club pub, with a disco and filled to the brim with teenyboppers. I hadn't been in there since returning from Spain, even though I knew it had become a place for bands, I just hadn't got around to going there. The place was incredibly quiet, but then, fair play, it was a Monday night. A few stray Rasmus t-shirts were wandering around, obviously had discovered the band at the same Bristol gig as me.
Hookieo
The first band that took the stage was Hookieo. Very young band, you have no idea how old I was feeling. The bass player needed a new belt, the sight of his bare bum not very attractive when you are trying to drink your vodka. The singer had just as poor a dress sense, sporting a weird skellington costume. I was optimistic at the beginning, giving the band the benefit of the doubt. They seemed ok when playing the quiet bits, losing the plot seemingly when things rocked up. The third song seemed to heighten my hopes for them getting into things, only to smash them down again with the next number. The song structure was generally good if a little long on all numbers. The band was certainly not lacking in confidence, just the ability to play. The guitar was constantly going out of tune and they had to battle with it after every song. I suggest that they stretch the strings next time they restring, or better still, don't restring before a gig. The bass player from the first song, took the guitar later on and seemed to be the more talented of the group. Singers voice was ok. Drumming sloppy. In general, not very good. I wonder how many times they have been paid off "It's a disaster". Too bloody right mate.
Verdict: Only worth seeing if you can get in for free, and there is no where else to go. But if there is a good film on the TV you may be better staying home 2/10.
No hope in New Jersey
No hope in New Jersey were up next and thank God for a sound that made sense. After having our ears abused by the first band it was refreshing to hear something well structured and tight. The crowd was visibly glad for it, showing their delight in having a jump about.
The songs were kicking and the sound much more professional. The beat was foot tappingly good, the guitar playing well done, nice bass lines all topped off with excellent vocals. The songs were well written and played well. Another confident band, this time with reason to be.
Verdict: Worth going out for, an enjoyable band, wouldn't pay over £3 for a ticket to see them though. This band has potential and will be awesome when they discover the minor chord 4/10.
Hiding Place
The only thing that was disappointing and pissed me off, was the fact that once the support acts had done their bit they, and their hangers on, all left. This is bad form, bands never used to do this to each other. One or two of the band members from the previous bands stayed, but in general the place seemed to empty. Funny moment though was watching Paul being surrounded by Rasmus fans, all hugging him and reading his trousers. They were genuinely happy to see him, and he was soaking it up. Unfortunately they made up nearly half the audience, all 6 of them. Hiding Place were unfazed by the quietness of the club though and put on just as good a show as they did in Bristol, they were loving it. The sound was perfect, the band tight, no equipment problems, no hick ups, just Hiding Place playing their little hearts out.
Hailing from Scotland, these guys have the potential to go far. Their songs are well written, catchy without losing any of the essence of rock. They are obviously enjoying their jobs. Interaction with the audience is excellent. All the members radiate a confidence and personality that is positively infectious. Serious head banging stuff from a band that is proving to be just as consistent as they are talented. A joy to go and watch. If you are looking for a good night out I would recommend going to see them, this is made even better by the fact that these guys are genuinely, really nice guys. Thank you Dougie, it was lovely to meet you and I hope to speak to you again. Sorry I had to run. I was being dragged to a jam session. Generally a well performed gig, leaving us wanting more as usual.
Verdict: One to keep an eye out for, Would definitely recommend going to see them live, the atmosphere they emit is electric. Will be keeping an eye out for them 7/10.