Brighton based trio Loose Lips
have only been doing their punky pop-rock thing on the circuit since
June 2011 – yet they already sound like the tightest band you’ve ever
heard. Take the guitar based dexterity and the song-writing skills of a
band like ‘Biffy Clyro’ and combine that with the freshness and style
of a band like ‘Kids In Glass Houses.’ But take a pinch of summer sea
breeze and surf up style … and you start to approach the spirited
perfection of this band’s output.We were lucky enough to see them play at the best music venue around – The Hob Staines – on Saturday.
Live, their songs flow well together, each with a distinctive style and a vigorous attitude. And there is ample evidence of their technical ability, found in their exuberant performances. Engagement is at the social level – their songs are for parties and celebrations.
Jason Barker (lead vocals and guitar) Matt Don (bass guitar and vocals) and Sam Perkins (drums and vocals) have an almost flawless amiability. They cheer up a room - just by being in it. They don’t even need to pick up their instruments to create some fun!
And their numbers are always so generous – invariably full of brazen joy and cheeky cheerfulness. Take their song ‘Blue Rubber Blanket’. This has a highly nourishing melody together with a distinctive sound. Creative guitar-work is light enough to illuminate a room. And the song speaks to the listeners on an emotional – yet impertinent – level.
‘Drive Away’ has a throbbing rhythm and vast swathes of chords that will brush across your brow, knocking you off your feet. Lyrics speak boldly to the audience. The words are incisive and stimulating. “You better drive away… before I change your mind…” And all-the-while, this plucky band are the exemplars of efficiency in music. There is never a roll of drums, plucked bass note or a chord strummed that is ever wasted. Every note, every word, is perfectly placed.
‘Blindfold’ has that same acidic sweetness that we expect from Loose Lips. That step-down riff is extraordinary. And the melody will remain deeply rooted within your skull for weeks. With drumming as fierce as a famished floozie after a night out on the bubble. And a voice so wild, and so insanely high-spirited, that you are likely to get wet … just by watching. Well, it’s no surprise that everyone dances and prances like crazy coyotes at a Loose Lips gig.
What a band! Go grab a slice for yourself.
– © Neil_Mach September 2012 –
Link:
http://www.facebook.com/looselipsuk
