National Student Music Awards Final - Handsum Binmen, Angels Of Mons, Fired For Theft, Delorentos

Despite the lofty title this event was not a self-congratulatory gong-dispersing ceremony but a fiercely fought battle of the bands to win studio time, a Beat 102-103 radio session and a spot in the UK final.
There were no Oscar-style tearful speeches and nobody thanked God.
Hansum Binmen kicked off proceedings with their usual high-octane energy. Unfortunately, due to being first, they had to warm-up the audience. However, considering the competition that was to follow, they wouldn’t have won regardless of the running order.
Angel Of Mons performed like a band that felt they had already made it and didn’t need to be there. According to the rumour mill they’re signing with management company Jazz Summer, who handle Snow Patrol, so they could be right, but a little more effort would have been appreciated. The trio were very tight and they have good melodies and harmonies, like forthcoming single ‘Jennifer Reel’. They're very physically striking as a band; the two guitarists/vocalists brought to my mind The Bravery’s Sam Endicott. Nevertheless, Angels Of Mons were disappointingly lifeless on the night.
The penultimate act Fired For Theft, despite some fairly good tunes, were the least professional outfit and seemed afraid to go for it. There’s more to performing in front of an audience than standing on stage with instruments. They need to hone their delivery, more than somewhat.
Then came Delorentos and everything seemed to fall into place. Although they’re clearly influenced by the current Brit Pop new wave, Franz Ferdinand et al, and are not wholly original, they do conjure undeniably sharp riffs and tight rhythms. They’re also great fun to watch.
There was also a star turn from special guests Republic Of Loose, who are a fantastic live band. The Loose’s dirty yet alluring cocktail of rock, soul, R& B, gospel and funk is a welcome change from the tedium of the ubiquitous singer-songwriter on the Irish scene.
After an irritating interlude from an Alan Partridge-esque English MC, who bizarrely took over at the end from the immensely likeable compere John Walshe, the result was announced.
The Delorentos were the deserved winners. Encore!