09-03-12: Switchback Music Events presents

The Beacon Court Tavern, Gillingham.

Are you listening? Are you listeniiiiiiiiiiing?

Oh, good – I have your attention. Now, it’s time to pay attention to some local talent hailing from the Medway towns, and a top London band.

Having only been around since August 2011, The Hamelins were the first to take centre stage at The Beacon Court Tavern on Friday night and needless to say I am slowly warming to them. After seeing them a few weeks ago at The Command House I was unsure, but I am putting this down to the sound quality as – despite minor technical difficulties – their latest performance was brilliant.

They have a high energy, with vocalist and guitarist, Timothy Wilcox, being the direct driving force of the band, and a vintage sound with additional and complimenting vocals from Ione Bruce, if indeed at times they are a little too quiet. Nonetheless, with a solid set-list of original tracks, they are young, fun and a refreshing band with a musical ability that is landing them gig after gig.

Next up were a hot new band on the Medway scene, known as 5 Weeks In. With influences drawn from the likes of 30 Seconds to Mars, Foo Fighters, and Paramore, 5 Weeks In have a great energy matched by their presence and alluring sound – particularly the vocals! Oh, that voice.

So moving on, I’ve heard that Russian Roulette is not the same without a gun. Atleast that is what Lady Gaga preaches, and as of late so do 5 Weeks In.

Their cover of “Poker Face” strangely worked in favour of their sound, vibe and presence. I don’t know why but for me it just worked. Then an angry song followed, though I would say more passionate than angry per se. I am disappointed with myself that I didn’t catch the title as it was one of my favourites, and one the crowd seemed to receive well as there was an exceptional turnout.

With a range of influences, and drum fills at all the right moments, 5 Weeks In put on an exciting performance that exceeded my expectations after seeing them at the Command House a couple of weeks prior to this event.

Pedalo Fred. They cut to the chase, and give it to you straight up. Apparently.

According to a non-zany, un-extravagant introductory bio, they are a rock band who still think it’s okay to hang back and not worry about keeping up with the times.

Pedalo Fred are sure of themselves and have what seems to be an ever-growing, loyal fan-base. They have a catchy sensibility and an essence of familiarity looms; but in no way that is tiresome or boring.

In all honesty, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, having never heard them before; but they offered something fresh and raw, which makes you feel like you’re riding a rainbow on a glistening jewel encrusted surfboard... Oh hang, no that is just you guys! Though they sure know how to hold a crowd.

Bleech were the headlining act of the night, and a fine treat for Kent it was.

Having recently landed back in the UK after playing in New York, they have played on the NME tour, and headlined at The Koko in Camden for NME, they have also supported the likes of Wolfmother (in Germany), The Kooks, The Charlatans and Pete Doherty.

First impressions? Androgynous, effortlessly cool, edgy.

The three piece are tight to say the least, and female led, with a post-grunge meets American rock feel. It was difficult to ignore the intensely beautiful, almost Courtney Love-esque vocals that oozed from beneath all the hair. Team this with a bare-foot bassist who you can’t take your eyes off of and immaculately timed drum-beats, and you have the makings to the soundtrack of a typical teen’s life.

The exuberance of a force to be reckoned with is delivered, and what a noise they make.

The Hamelins
5 Weeks In
Pedalo Fred
Bleech