- Music
- 14 Mar 11
Live at The Academy 2
The Rumour's songs vary wonderfully between anthemically indie and clap-along, synth-driven nuances. Their set-opener 'Chivalry (Is Dead)' immediately impresses with its awesome bounce and contagious verse. If it's not the synthesiser, it's their guitar riffs; the best and most epic appearing on their album's title track 'Hurricane'. Also encouragingly heavy on guitar is a cover of Gaga's 'Bad Romance' which is, shockingly fresh and unique, given how tiring and ubiquitous the hit now is.
The set's standout track is undoubtedly the brilliant 'Psycho' which proves itself to be utterly addictive. With hints of Arcade Fire and a pinch of Radiohead, the piano melody midway through the song is beautiful. Although frontman Joe's voice has been striking all evening, here it is particularly impressive.
Covers can be a controversial move (particularly for a new band trying to get a firm foothold), but The Rumour perform a fantastic blend of MGMT's 'Kids' and Coldplay's 'Lost', showcasing Joe Hogarty and keyboardist MD McKernan's excellent vocals.
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From this gig, it's clear that this year The Rumour are destined for whirlwind success which they evidently deserve. Also highly recommended is their new single and live highlight, 'La Colère (Anger Management)' out March 19.