Live music has the power to turn a mundane day into an unforgettable, joyful one; to transform your emotions; and to bring a group of strangers together. Making the decision to take a bit of time out, perhaps putting up with some inconvenience to go down to a smaller live venue, could have a bigger effect than you think. On you, as well as the musicians who are taking risks, often travelling a long way at their own expense, and making themselves vulnerable on that stage.
On Wednesday I went for the first time to Signature Brew in Haggerston East London, a small capacity venue built under a brick railway arch. I was aiming to see Plasticine, an Edinburgh/Glasgow grunge-revival band who I came across last year.
I also had the chance to hang out with them before the set and spend some time putting the world to rights over a few beers (except drummer Ross, who generally doesn’t drink before shows). We discussed Scotland’s off-licensing laws (I had no idea they were so strict) and an unfortunate but hilarious incident on a public bus, which will have to remain confidential. They told me a bit about their history (there’s more detail on that here), the Scottish music scene in Glasgow, Edinburgh and everywhere in between, and some exciting tour plans later in the year. It was also great to discuss some fellow artists from their neck of the woods, in particular the awesome Silvi and, of course, Dictator.
Supporting Plasticine were two bands I'd not heard of before – both are now on well and truly on my list (the good list).
First, Candar. There's just two of them in the group: Ella on guitar and vocals, and Finn on drums, two very smart and talented people who have crafted a set up which produces an incredibly full sound. No excess whitespace. Their songs are catchy, heavy-verging alt-rock with classic influences and hints of sweetness. Shades of Royal Blood maybe, but without the attitude. Those drums are always up on it, and sensitive when needed, too; while Ella's guitar riffs and rolls, and her soulful vocals hold interest.
The two band members (who met in North Devon and are now London-based) also have the chemistry and skill to pull off what could be a very exposing type of performance. Watching, I got the impression of two friends jamming and really having fun with their music. Ones to watch, definitely. All their info is here.
The stage looked notably more busy when Comforts came on (they're a four-piece) but this band too presented as skilled, tight and enjoyable. Their music was eclectic and sweeping, full of subtle variation – veering from expectant melancholy to euphoria – but solidly grounded in melodic alt-rock roots. They really brought energy and a festival vibe to the brick-vaulted room. That room wasn't as full as any of would have liked, but, as the best acts do, Comforts went for it as if they were on an arena stage.
Lead singer and guitarist Sam is a likeable presence on stage, confident but modest, with the other members backing him up with clear enjoyment. The band are from Brighton and their fame seems to be spreading, as they've found support from BBC 6 Music and Apple Music. They have plenty more live dates coming up, too. Find them on Bandcamp and Instagram.
Plasticine launched into their set with confidence, Summer Skye wearing her guitar slung low, and delivering sultry, slightly husky vocals, crisp or slurry when needed. She seemed very relaxed on stage and an absolutely natural front person.
There was a lot to the set but I’ll just mention three highlights here:
‘Do bad boys go to heaven?’ was great - played speedily, without hesitation, full on from the start. Grungy chords combined with tight vocal harmonies, lots of bass from Connah, and forceful but contemporary drums from Ross.
Their cover of ‘Pure Imagination’ was a bold choice but it sounded fabulous. The band transformed a sugar-coated ’70s movie-soundtrack standard into a dusky, intense shoegazy ballad. A whole different dimension, which is what marks out a good cover.
Another of my favourites, ‘Do you think she’s pretty?’ also stood out — that song is a slow, reflective number, but also powerful thanks to the intensity of Summer’s delivery. I noticed the vocal harmonies here again: Bob (also on guitar duties, and impressive behind sunglasses) sung his part close and accurately, bringing depth and richness to the overall sound.
Plasticine proved capable of stepping up and delivering an immersive, engaging set, translating their back catalogue into a really impressive live experience. There’s a captivating sense of purpose and honesty to this band. They play with gusto and enjoyment, and their songs are pleasingly familiar in some senses but also infused with personality. Exactly the sort of band you’ll not regret leaving the house for.
Follow Plasticine on Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube and Spotify.
Date of gig: 17 April 2024