On a very warm summers’ evening, four bands made their way to The Outpost, a small intimate venue in the heart of Liverpool. Completely different bands, each with their own message to put across. As the bands started setting up, it was clear the heat would be rising by the minute, more so as the crowd started to slowly filter in via the ever-hot pizza kitchen, and into the venue at the back. Nearly time to for the first band Dead Rebel to give it their all.
Dead Rebel are from Liverpool, they are described by some as “doom dance”, whatever that means. To my mind, pure grunge rock, mind-blowing guitar, drum and bass, complimented perfectly by almost hypnotic vocals. It was difficult at first to get away from comparing them with certain other bands, but very quickly, they proved themselves to be in a league of their own. Setting standards, and dare I say a unique style. Song after song transfixing the crowd, until finally the last tune was played. 30 minutes gone in a flash left us wondering where the time has gone. A band I had not seen before, which I most hope to have the pleasure of seeing again.
Hex Poseur, a band I saw at Nice n Sleazy Festival up next, then it was an unbelievable sound from what was at that time a 2-piece as their bassist was unable play. Hex on vocals which can only be described as mature beyond her years. Hailing from Leicester, the now three piece band with Jacob on drums and new bass man Cade (who has only been with the band 5 minutes), hit the stage with all the force of a tornado. Instantly the one thing that got me was Cade, a true showman, playing bass like it’s a part of him, dancing around and introducing a fantastic chemistry on stage with Hex and Jacob. Songs about femininity, equality, fairness and caring for others screaming out. Magnificent guitar and drums in perfect synch together. Vocally superb, so many influences from the early days of female punk singers, Poly-Styrene being but one, showed in the way the songs were put across and delivered. They were one of the highlights from the Nice n Sleazy festival, if not this year so far and continued tonight to provide tremendous sound from three talented musicians.
Following swiftly on, a young singer/guitarist I’ve heard much about, and seen via certain music sites but never live, Loz Campbell. Comparable voice to many so-called rock stars, Loz was on stage and owned it. From hard rock guitar riffs, to slower melodic almost folky punk rock tempo, it is easy to say why people say she will go far, and go far she will. Never faltering throughout, and capable of turning out virtuoso guitar work, Loz and the band threw out varying degrees of rock tunes, instrumentally in perfect time, tight and clearly enjoying what they do. Another example of a band who show they love their trade, which in turn emanates into the audience. Very impressed with these and time will prove that they have what it takes.
Finally, a band I got a glimpse of at Rebellion Festival, the Gogoponies, all the way from Milan, arrived in the UK a few short months ago to start their extensive tour. Night after night, city after city, they have shown many, the high-power energy they have and doctrine of hard work and passion that bands need and should have to keep going. Chatting to them outside the venue before going on, it was clear, irrespective of a slight language barrier, they were so looking forward to playing Liverpool, it showed in their speech and body language. Always happy to chat.
The band hit the stage like a battering ram to the soul, loud and fast, yet with catchy tunes to dance to. “Three girls and a guy, supporting girl power, going against every kind of violence. No politics, racism, sexism, bullying or anything else that can poison the mind. Contamination is a reason for growth, improvement and widening of views.” Freedom through expression. Audience participation can be a key part of a live band, and they have loads of it, which showed as the crowd danced to song after song. A very visual band but this does not take away the musical side of the outfit, again, tight, harmonious and well-rehearsed. I consider they were far better here than Rebellion feeding off the intimacy of the venue and the closeness of the crowd, albeit a very hot and sweaty one. A great set and a privilege to have them play at our little venue, bearing in mind they have come from Italy into practically the unknown. A very professional and hard-working band, and a joy to watch.
Four very different bands, different sounds, styles and look. Playing side by side, doing what they love to do. This is what live music should be about, whatever your taste in music is.
Words: Johnny Reay, Photos: Johnny Reay/Adrian Wharton/Richie Yates
Links:
Gogoponies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gogoponies
Gogoponies Linktree: https://linktr.ee/gogoponies
Loz Campbell Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LozMusic
Loz Campbell Web: https://www.lozcampbellmusic.co.uk
Hex Poseur Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hexposeur
Hex Poseur Fanlink: https://hexposeur.fanlink.to/hexposeur
Dead Rebel Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeadRebelBand
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