REVIEW: PEGGY SUE AT BRISTOL LOUISIANA (15/09/11)
The Louisiana opened its doors to Peggy Sue. After a swift name change from ‘Peggy Sue and the Pirates,’ to just plain ol’ ‘Peggy Sue,’ the trio have returned to Bristol to showcase their new sound and their new album.
Support this evening comes from Eyes & No Eyes. The London four piece are one member short but that doesn’t seem to faultier the band’s set in the slightest. Known for their experimental approach to the indie music circuit, Eyes & No Eyes don’t disappoint. The subtle undertones of grungey rock, mixed with the eclectic talents of Becca Mears on cello and the faultless beats of Thomas Heather on drums, showcases each member’s input is as important and creative as it is impressive. The haunting atmosphere created in each song turns the crowd to silence, highlighting Tristram’s charming awkward nature and terrible in-between-songs banter. The fact that Tristam is not the best singer in the world only aids to the band’s appeal and helps to see past that ever so silly bowl haircut. As said on the X factor, it’s clear the band don’t actually know how good they are, so let’s hope they don’t let it go to their heads.
Peggy Sue take to the stage and are greeted with a packed Louisiana crowd. Having recorded their album in Stokes Croft back in January, they are keen to let us know they feel as though Bristol is a homecoming – much to the delighted grunts of a few locals. The opening tracks are taken from their last album ‘Fossils and Other Phantoms,’ and go down a storm with the diehard fans jiggling about on the front row. Katy’s impressive instrument switch up includes a ukulele, accordion and guitar, whilst Rosa sticks to a more modest one or two. The girls’ vocals simply belong together and their effortless harmonising during every song never grows tiresome. However, its newbie drummer Olly that really takes centre stage during the set. His formulaic rhythms are exactly what this band has been asking for, making every song that bit more powerful.
At one point in the set, Eyes & No Eyes drummer Tom helps the band out and takes to the stage as a second drummer. As the girls interweave with the guys, it’s apparent that Peggy Sue have really come into their own, plus the more drummer’s the better, apparently. The rest of the set is dedicated to new material from the band’s brand new album ‘Acrobats.’ Showcasing their new direction, each song is as tight as ever and proves that Peggy Sue are well on their way to stardom. We’re treated to an encore of ‘Cut My Teeth’ – the first track from their new album. After being warned that it’s a fairly long track, the crowd settle in to get their monies worth. This final tune sums up the band perfectly, with spunky lyrics and sprightly melodies, Peggy Sue end on a high.
Words and photo: Sammy Maine
