Ever since the recently disbanded Uncle Leon & the Alibis unleashed "Roller Derby Saved My Soul" on the world, little over a year ago, we at Bluesbunny have been greatly interested in the sport's progress in Britain. When it emerged that the Glasgow Roller Girls were holding a "fundrazor" at Curlers on Byres Road, it wasn't like we had a choice…
A lot of effort had been put into the evening. Each girl had a cocktail named after them, and this Bluesbunny was soon on the case. I think I may have inadvertently upset the barmaid by asking for a "Mistress Malicious", but to mix tequila and Bailey's (if memory serves), I'd do it again!
After much strategic sampling of the delightful concoctions (essentially, avoiding anything containing WKD), it was time for the first act of the evening. Ayrshire ska-punk hellcats The Hostiles provided a fitting musical accompaniment to the proceedings; a fine set of would-be exotic trumpeting clashing with buzzing guitar. There are not a lot of bands in Scotland subscribing to this sound, but the good-time zaniness their show possesses can only stand them in good stead for the future.
I cannot over emphasise the quality of the cocktails. My harassment of the barmaid continued, as I tried the "Mean Queen Ketamine" and the "Maddy Hackit" among others. A fair crowd had gathered, and everyone in the vicinity appeared to be enjoying the evening (and the cocktails!). As a means of intermission, a raffle was held. The felicitous winner will be the recipient of a new tattoo. Alas, my attempt was in vain.
We were to learn that unfortunate happenings had robbed Deadbeat Carnival of their singer for the night. Thankfully, their guitarist had the fortitude to deputise for the performance. It was hard not to be impressed by the vigour with which the trio delivered their set of mud-laden hard rock. Though a valiant effort from guitarist "G", it was quite obvious that their singer was missing. Such no-shows are all too common in the Glasgow music scene, and with this in mind, the band should be commended for playing at all. The set was laid to rest in style; a gallant rendition of "Roller Derby Saved My Soul". A wonderful union of cow-punk splendour and Roller Derby salivation to bring an end to the night's music.
After a little mingling and analysis of the evening, I set sail for home. An evening of deliciously named cocktails - and the odd pint of Guinness - had left me in somewhat of a state of disrepair.
The Roller Derby is a hands-on sport that is slowly but surely gathering speed in Britain, and the lovely Glasgow Roller Girls will only have added to their legion of supporters with a well-planned fundraiser. Thank you Uncle Leon.