Gig reviews for January 2011

Leicester band Skam playing at the SoundHouse on Saturday 15th January

Skam played a superb set the SoundHouse. Great vocals, blistering guitar solos and splendid stage performances, from one of Leicester's longest established original bands.

These three guys really know what rock 'n roll is all about. This could be a big year for them. A full album is planned and a deal with a distribution company is on the cards. They have a huge back catalogue of their own songs.

The trio have been around for over ten years now, although they started with a different drummer and had a couple of name changes along the way. They have played all around the UK and have brought numerous EPs and singles.

A band with a distinctive sound of their own; they also have a sense of humour, matched only by their commitment to communicating messages about life and issues they feel passionate about. A band that feels that making music should be fun but can still have a serious side.

Always a great treat musically to see them perform and they never serve a dud show. With their razor sharp tightness, well blended vocals and exhilarating guitar playing, their sets have all the fire and energy that you would want from a top notch rock band. Still writing new songs, they put in a new one tonight 'No Lies'. Their style has moved on from the early days, has got a little harder but no less thrilling. Legends.

Skam on Myspace

Skam playing at the SoundHouse

Forgotten Sun

The mighty Forgotten Sun rounded off the show with power laden set of their throbbing hard rock songs. The quartet of musicians was led by vocalist Matt Tacey exude a healthy dose of attitude in their songs and quality delivery in their music. With influences ranging from Alter Bridge to Audioslave, they have developed a set of richly laden sounds, they have made their mark on the Leicester music scene and won acclaim from a variety of sources.

Backed by some electrifying work from the lead guitarist and some solid melodic lines, they pounded out some really big rolling riffs and compelling rhythms. We have reviewed their appearances before and have been impressed by the powerful songs and impressive instrumentals. With bands like Forgotten Sun and Skam in Leicester, it's no wonder our city's reputation is growing.

You can see them again when they play lock-42 on 2nd March; after that it's O2 Academy Birmingham on May 22nd.

Forgotten Sun on Myspace.

Lucky 27s

Having played Leicester several times before, including an appearance at the Glastonbudget festival, Lucky 27s were back to keep their fans engaged. A serious band, they put on a workman-like performance. A set of recognisable riffs and classy passages, their fizzy songs were solidly executed. Their stuff is mainstream rock, a commercial sound that is listenable, although not headline material (not in Leicester, where the competition from quality bands is fierce.)

The Luck27s on Myspace.