My entry to tonight's gig is initially thwarted partly to PR inefficiancy, but happily I bump into The Chapman Family's front man Kingsley who kindly bundles me indoors just in time to watch his band play a blistering set in front of the packed crowd.
Support slots can be a thankless position but The Chapman Family's years of constant touring sees them take control as they belt through their abrasive pop-rock songs, showcasing imminent debut album 'Burn Your Town' (out March 7th). Current single 'Anxiety' rubs its hummable chorus up against the foreboding of 'Kids' and the hypnotic, sadomasochistic feel of 'A Million Dollars' and the mix fits very well.
With less than half a stage to suffice due to the headliners set-up, the Teeside quartet's already claustrophobic energy is given more reason to vent. With freedom to roam they'd undoubtedly reach more epic heights but they still play like their life depends on it and build to an incendiary climax, confirming new acolytes to their cause. Job done.
The Joy Formidable are also now reaping the rewards of a persistent life on the road. The Big Roar, their new album, is freshly squeezed and the trio of Ritzy, Rhydian and Matt relish the command their headliner role brings.
Opening with 'The Greatest Light Is The Greatest Shade', we're all called to joyous attention. Older set favourites are given an aural sparkle like the hopeful expectation of 'Whirring' or recent radio hit 'Austere' and newer album tracks prove to be instant crowd favourites. Dreamy guitar pop fills the venue and 'The Everchanging Spectrum of a Lie' sums up their appreciation of mood and melody perfectly.
The Joy Formidable are assured and entertaining and will only get bigger and better.
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