Ra Ra Riot / The Answering Machine / Illustrators

Opening the show, Illustrators show just why turning up at a gig in time for the supports is always a good idea. The local four piece proceeded to turn in a tight set which impressed the early starters and ensured that the free CDs disappeared off the merch stand soon after the band left the stage. The atmospheric 'Running Out' typified a solid show, and despite their young age, Illustrators are proof yet again that the scene in Newcastle is on the up.

The Answering Machine could well be the best up and coming band in Britain. Their highly impressive set gave Ra Ra Riot a real run for their money tonight, and there is no doubt that The Answering Machine have the presence and the talent to go all the way. Upcoming single 'Cliffer' could well be the song which breaks The Answering Machine to the mainstream. An angst driven tale of misplaced trust, it seethes with an energy which is unmistakable, and it stands head and shoulders above the rest of a very accomplished performance.

Syracuse, New York natives Ra Ra Riot hit the stage and immediately launched into a set of such professionalism, and such panache, as to contradict their young age. Few bands ever get this good, and the amazing thing is that Ra Ra Riot are so early in their career. Given their recent troubles, one could forgive the band for wondering if the world was against them, and giving up entirely. Thankfully for the music buying public, they have come back stronger than ever, and seem ready to take on all comers.

The band's melodic, flowing sound owes much to the wonderful string section provided by Alexandra Lawn and Rebecca Zeller. Their understated yet crucial contribution to the sound ensures that Ra Ra Riot's sound is intriguingly ethereal. When you add to this a wonderful vocal performance from frontman Wes Miles, it appears than Ra Ra Riot are the complete package, and there is little that should stop them from ascending to their rightful place in the national and international conscience.

From the mellow pop goodness of 'Dying Is Fine' to the quirky 'Suspended In Gaffa', we are treated to the new album in almost its entirety, and in the live arena, the songs are even more powerful than on record. Had the Academy's ridiculous 10pm Saturday night curfew not kicked in, there is no doubt that Ra Ra Riot would have been welcome to play all night. If there's any justice at all in the music industry, there is no doubt that their future is very bright indeed.

FUTURE GIGS

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