Crystal Fighters / Wild Palms / Violens

Written by Anthony

Photos Dan Griffiths / Retna Pictures
As we file into the “back bit” of the Hoxton Bar & Grill (tight squeeze in!) and air of anticipation fills the air as Violens take to the stage, sure one of em announced they were from New York, or was that just York!. They take a wee while to get going but as the guitar kicks in on the 3rd anthemic song they begin to sound like a bunch of other bands, think Echo and the Bunnymen having a scrap with Bono and The Edge while A Certain Ratio look on, and you are almost there. A good sound and just when they get going for me they leave the stage, feel a bit short changed but defo worth catching next time.

An angry looking front man takes to the stage and Wild Palms start things off with a ferocious beat, I’m instantly captivated and want to know more about this strange awkward band already. Intense, baggy and a bit 80s (the best bits) are running through my head as I watch the ryder / curtis front man (my is that Hooky circa 1979 on stage with em?) scowl and prowl the stage swigging from a vodka bottle. I feel this band have more to offer and with a few sound problems they call it a night, but absolutely thrilling to watch. Loud drums coupled with a charismatic yet aloof front man wins me over everytime!

Now the main act Crystal Fighters take to the stage and wowzer what an entrance I’m immediately locked into their universe of pulsating rave beats coupled with a theatrical rawk performance 2nd to none. Man these guys grab your attention within seconds! With a brief break to take a photo of the audience for Radio One we are back to “hands in the air” euphoria!. I have nt had this much fun since my days at the Orbit in Morley (drum & bass club) in ‘95! Crystal Fighters brand new single ‘I Love London’ will be released on the celebrated electro label Kitsuné this month, buy it / download it and dance like a freekin idiot round your bedroom, yep its epic. Sorted.

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