File this one under the ever burgeoning ‘scene’ of predominantly female led guitar based bands that is sweeping across our fine nation. Think Prima Queen and Lime Garden to name a couple plus media darlings Wet Leg.
First up is Headboy who happen to have one my prime gig going buddy Andy’s children on drums. After a slight hiccup on first song with tech issues it’s a storming forty minute set from a band who have yet to record a full album. If spiky guitar rock is your thing then this band are definitely for you. A nice twist near the end with bass player and lead guitarist/singer swapping instruments and lead vocals mid song. Interestingly for me as I commented to Andy I enjoyed this second half more and for my ears and eyes both looked more comfortable with their alternative instruments, the musicality was better and this was especially true for the bass which I felt had a warmer, softer sound during this spell.
Next up is Peaness, Chester based trio with additional keyboards tonight to round out that sunny power pop sound that lights up the already golden atmosphere of the Moth Club. And sunny pop is exactly what it is. A joyous expressive band who can’t help put a smile on your face with their beautiful harmonies and catchy melodies.
This is their first gig for six months but there were no signs of rust musically although they admitted their between song banter needs some polishing but no one cared as we were enjoying the show so much. With only one album behind them you might have expected some rawness but they are a polished act and already close to the finished article.
The set obviously covers all of that debut ‘World Full or Worry’ plus some other older tracks. On a night of many highlights I particularly enjoyed ‘What the use’ and Kaizen’ and on a new twist for the charade that is the encore the band just turned their back for two seconds on the audience and off we go again to finish the night on a high.
The other interesting note for me was the mix of the audience which for this scene is usually very young but there was a large contingent of 6 Music dads, of which I am one, here to enjoy the great tunes. I have no problem being one of the oldest in the audience and age shouldn’t be a barrier to enjoying great music.
A great night of power popping and keep on rock n rollin’ y’all