Friday was always going to the Clash of the Clashes and so before even heading out I had a word with myself, embrace JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out). As it turned out half of the original plans went out the window, and the day was even better for it. It all began at Bella Union where the advertised schedule wasn’t the reality which was totally cool as with an hour to spare and popped next door to the North Laine Brewhouse, a venue new to me. A duo were just starting their set, and it turned out to be Glenn Campbell’s daughter, Ashley Campbell with Thor Jensen. What a talent to stumble upon. This was followed by Scotland’s Faeda who I caught yesterday. Back to Bella Union which seemed slightly chaotic and were already running late so cut my losses and headed to The Hope and Ruin to see Modern Woman who I knew nothing about, a great decision as it turned out. Their loud and quiet soundscapes and multi-instrumentalists were glorious. By the way, en route I had spotted band of the moment Bleech 9:3 chatting with Bathing Suits – such is Brighton during The Great Escape.
With a bit of time to spare grabbed some food before heading to The Black Lion for the band before the band I wanted to see. It was billed as a Surprise Guest and as I arrived they were putting a barrier up in the pub! Still not knowing who was playing it was obvious that a lot of people in the room did. Turned out it was Keo and the atmosphere in the room was buzzing, packed to the rafters with true fans – The Alt Escape truly is phenomenal.
Next onstage were Copenhagen’s Smag På Dig Selv. The trio brought their stomping techno saxophone and drums to The Black Lion, and The Black Lion responded by dancing. The two saxophonists never stand still, prowling the stage and beyond, even out in the beer garden at one point. What a band to bring the euphoria. Every single person in the room was smiling as well as dancing. There was even a 5pm mosphpit!
The adrenaline was pumping through my veins as I trotted to The Oak for Ellis-D, who was going to be popular, and Public Circuit, the latter from New York. Talking to the owner of the pub it was fascinating to learn just how a band from New York ends up playing The Alt Escape in Brighton! It’s all about communication. Delighted and relieved to get into the room both bands brought an unbridled energy. Ellis-D are difficult to describe – trust me – just go see live. The whole room was buzzing, carried along by their exuberant music.
Public Circuit bring an electronic dance vibe which is edgy and infectious, including a drummer as well as an array of keyboards and synths. Lead vocalist and analog mastermind Ethan Biamont lives and breathes the music, utterly captivating to watch.
And so to Gurriers who were put on by record label PIAS. A walk up and down the seafront looking for the venue finally saw us pack into the room which was heaving, such is the love for this Irish band. It was wild, utter mayhem and loved every single second of the chaos.
Last venue of the day was Fiddlers Elbow, an unscheduled stop but having been given a tip off by a friend it was the best way to wrap up Friday. First up The Sick Man of Europe who I’d already seen briefly earlier in The Oak. Pulsating krautrock music with a voice that reminds of Joy Division, he seems to come from a different time and the bobbing energy in the room was thrilling.
Final band of the day were Bathing Suits, an extra-ordinary band who were beset by technical problems but persevered to give the room what they wanted. The Leeds electronic noise pop four-piece are another thrilling prospect and the room was bouncing, almost tipping over into the band at times.
Live music – Bloody Hell…
Band of the Day: Smag På Dig Selv