We're in the basement again. It is getting to be an occupational hazard. Tonight's basement is the 13th Note in Glasgow and tonight's entertainment consists of Burnout, Mamalujo, Closet Organ and Obviously Four Believers.
First on is Burnout. From the outset, it is clear that they have that that nineties British sound down pat. They play a tight game too with drummer Michael Beattie impressing most. Martin Livingston shows all the confidence needed of a lead singer as he sets about converting a friendly crowd. It might well be a lyric to someone else's song but the comment that comes to mind is that they work hard for the money. With plenty of energy on display, they are certainly the best things that Bluesbunny has heard come out of Livingston.
Next up is a band who did not care to introduce themselves. We grab a flyer and by a process of elimination, it would appear that they are called Mamalujo. Starting with a sonic wall of feedback they are obviously proponents of art-rock and they show a disregard for their audience that transcends style barriers. In fact, they finish on the (rarely seen these days) event of the lead singer baring his arse. Interesting approach but it would be more entertaining to see what happens if he tries that kind of behaviour in Edinburgh. Run rabbit run!
Following on from that is Closet Organ. There is plenty of youthful energy and arrogance on display from this three piece band. Whilst they classify themselves as grunge, they extend themselves well into prog rock territory as their songs merge into one long jam. It is something to be mindful of as taking a song beyond its sell by date will lose an audience. They look too young to be out this late and even manage to throw in a bit of artistic behaviour towards the end of their set. Not without potential of course, but they need to focus on keeping the audience's attention and (fortunately) they did not feel the need to bare their arses.
Rounding things off for tonight are Obviously Four Believers. Welcome visitors from Lancaster, they deliver a fine selection of quality songs showing a professional polish. Their set is a bit rushed as they are running up against the venue curfew but there is no doubt in the Bluesbunny mind that they have popular appeal as they mix up indie pop with Yardbirds' style blues. In fact, when we think about it, that might well be the secret of their sound. It is respectful of their musical influences but has the freshness that comes with youth. Sam Hayward's vocals fight the brave fight against some surprisingly poor sound in the room. Despite the poor attendance, they make the effort to sell themselves to the crowd and Bluesbunny looks forward to hearing them again under better circumstances.
And the result tonight? Obviously Four Believers had the best songs of the night but suffered from the poorest sound. Burnout got the best sound and really put some effort into their performance so we'll call it a draw. The limited attendance did not allow either band to show what they could really do but maybe next time …