Thursday 1st July 2010 @ The Croft, Bristol
With Support From: Archimedes, On Off Switch, A Day At The Races

A gig was in order to celebrate the birthday of New Generation Takeover’s Abi Ward and only the finest bands in Bristol will do. Opening the night were Archimedes with their quirky, progressive, poly rhythmic jams. They started their set with a refreshingly instrumental number complete with extra floor tom pounding from frontman Noah Villeneuve. Patrick Flint added extra textures on keytar that contrasted nicely with the twisty guitar riffs ala Biffy Clyro or Foals. With so many influences on show in this band, it’s a shame that many of the great little highlights of the set didn’t feature often throughout the performance.

On Off Switch followed and did not hesitate to get the crowd jumping with an extremely confident and consistent set of electro rock hits. Singer Kat Cheadle had the audience in the palm of her hand and defined each song with her soulful vocals. Do You Wanna? was a set highlight with its MGMT/Passion Pit inspired grooves. The energy from the band was running high throughout, especially with the heavier track, Gotta Know.

A Day At The Races made another appearance in Bristol for the event. New song Unhinged let singer George Rigden move away from his usual chirpy self to draw on darker influences such as Ian Curtis. Only tuning issues near the end diminished from an otherwise enjoyable set.

The Goodness headlined with their high paced, enthusiastic songs full of feeling. First highlight was Tonight that was full of instant hooks. Good use of swapping vocals was on show from lead singer Steve Preston and guitarist Jonah Swabey but also worked together well for harmonies. The crowd were totally into their set. Songs such as Something To Say are clear sing-along hits, an excellent example of great songwriting with soaring hooks that have hints of influences from bands like Noah And The Whale. The Goodness clearly have their sound worked out and deliver it consistently in their live performance.

www.myspace.com/thegoodnessmusic

Chris Mulligan