Morello, a band that manages to capture one’s imagination from beginning to end, are in full flight tonight.

The rock vibe they have crafted to be their own draws instrumentally from sharp-edged punky guitar bands of the modern age. Their Pixie-esque three part harmonies go hand in hand with genuine talent and originality in the songwriting department, setting the tone for what promises to be a top class evening.

Shortly after Sixdown tear through their first song there is a minor interruption. “You’re shit!” a voice sneers from the crowd. “Thanks for the

support” the bassist replies dryly, “the doors that way”. There’s a lot to be said for bands with a witty sense of humour and an attitude to boot which is what I find so endearing about Sixdown. It’s grungy garage rock flavoured with old school punk ethics. Nothing about their performance is contrived. We are treated to an

effortless display of honest to god, damn good rock ‘n’ roll – warts, though they are few and far between, and all.

Phamacy take to the stage and it’s sample-mania all the way. It’s a groove thang that sees the band sucking on the Happy Monday vein. As a band they are extremely tight with a healthy selection of good tunes that are slightly starved where originality and delivery are concerned. The similarities between Pharmacy and the afore

mentioned outfit are a little too close for comfort. They do however give a

fantastically energetic performance.