The band are currently on a whirlwind tour of the country’s premier record stores to promote the release of their debut long player, ‘Reeling’.
Music stores gigs can offer the neutral listener the chance to hear new music in the live environment, this is exactly what I was treated to, and to realise what I’ve missed out on to date. Rough Trade expanded into Bristol a few years ago, and as well as a well stocked record store they offer a bar and a live room to showcase live music.
About lunchtime The Mysterines came onstage to play a short set that was incredibly well received by an enthusiastic audience, some of whom had already seen the band several times during the last week. Dangerous was the first song followed by On the Run, Under your skin, a song Lia explained that she had ‘written a while back’. She didn’t talk much between the songs but when she did she was humble as she thanked everyone for coming out, for buying the album and for the applause they gave. Closing the set was the The Confession Song, ‘the same as the album’ Lia said.
The set was a laid back, stripped down excerpt of the album. One of the crowd told me afterwards ‘they come across so much better live’, While I’d say they do, they also come across well on record, I must have thought so as I bought my vinyl copy.
From a personal perspective Under your skin is probably my favourite track from the album especially with its creepy soundscapes it weaves, that said, almost every time I listen I noticed something else and change my mind every time. From the moment it kicks off with Lifes a Bitch, it had me captivated. On the run has an anthemic feel to it, and I’m sure will remain in sets for a while.
The band went on then to sign their album at Rough Trade, The queue was long, but the band didn’t let that get in the way of spending time with each and every person which is something that always goes a long way.
Judging by the large assembled crowd which this band drew in for such a low key gig, this is a band that I’m expecting to hear more about in the future. Roll on the next gig, I’m aiming to be at one of their local gigs on Merseyside.
Words & Pictures: Sam Holt @samholtphoto