Transfer - Koko, London - 8th July 2011 (Live Review)
|
|
|
|
Monday, 11 July 2011 |
Written by Chris Norman
|
|
It’s still early-ish days for Transfer, even after Q magazine tipped them to be the band most likely to emerge in 2011. Friday night’s KOKO gig probably isn’t signalling their breakthrough, but there were some promising sounds.
 The general response could easily be summed up with a smilling shrug. There was an energy, but the band always seemed to be on the verge of something. Maybe it was the brooding effects pedals of guitarist Jason Cardenas, who spent most of the gig haunched over his over-elaborate set up. Or maybe it was the somewhat jealous drumming of Andy Ridley, who – perhaps due to some technical difficulties – seemed to be constantly filling, and when he was on the beat was too eager. Either way the sound was slightly swamped at times.
But perhaps it’s the eagerness of a band that “takes their cue from the ‘five basic food groups’ of rock’n'roll: The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and The Stones” (in their own words). In any case, it all seemed a little forced at this stage.
That said, towards the end of the gig, 'White Horse' saw the band rise above this over-indulgence, and for a while they soared. Ridley’s drums set up a sharp groove, and Cardenas’ guitar effects were put to more economical use in the bridge, after notching through some thundering riffs. Frontman Matthew Molarius, whose vocal style lies somewhere between Julian Casablancas and Brandon Flowers, elevated the crowd for more.
But there ended a short set from the band from San Diego that it will be good to see more of. Let’s just hope they find the next gear soon.
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
We don't run any advertising! Our editorial content is solely funded by lovely people like yourself using Stereoboard's listings when buying tickets for live events. To keep supporting us, next time you're looking for concert, festival, sport or theatre tickets, please search for "Stereoboard". It costs you nothing, you may find a better price than the usual outlets, and save yourself from waiting in an endless queue on Friday mornings as we list ALL available sellers!
Let Us Know Your Thoughts
Related News |
No related news to show
