LYU + Forever Wednesday + Kyoto Drive + Losing Streak @ The Rainbow, Digbeth – 5th March 2009
This gig was supposed to be in the Barfly, but due to refurbishment it had to be moved to the Rainbow, which in my opinion was for the best as the crowd were very passionate about the local bands.
First on the bill were local boys Losing Streak. These guys are just what you need as a support band – good old-fashioned rock, no screaming, just 4 guys 3 guitars and a set of drums, playing songs to get the crowd going. Despite the lead singer having a sore throat they still gave it their all, finishing the set with a very good cover of the Brian Adams classic The Boys of Summer.
Next up were more local boys from Kyoto Drive from Wolverhampton. Their set started with promise with a good instrumental, but sadly went down hill from there. The lead guitarist was far too over the top for the band, and this showed after breaking 3 strings on his guitar in the first song. Throughout the set it was very difficult to tell the difference between their songs. This said, I respect the ability of the guys to perform in front of a crowd that they tried to get involved but were having none of it.
The last support band of the night was London guys Forever Wednesday.
Well, these guys came out with all guns blazing; they put on a very energetic stage show, which resembled You Me At Six. They had a very good stage presence and really knew how to get the crowd warmed up and involved, which showed when they covered The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air, with every person in the crowd singing along. Overall a very well received band that have clearly spent the time rehearsing and performing live.
Now it was time for the headline band LYU.
The lights drop, smoke fills the stage and the crowd goes nuts screaming for LYU. Then like an explosion the guys took the stage and made it their own. As soon as they started playing the crowd were all over them singing along to every song. The 4 piece work so well as a band with all of the guys feeding off one and another.
The band had amazing guitar rifts and heavy bass lines in their songs which the crowd loved – again this showed in the moshpit that kicked off during their set. Throughout the set not once did the band seem lost or strained with the lead singer showing a good vocal range. The band walk off leaving the crowd with hands held high and clapping.
Overall a good rock gig, a good venue, with four rock bands, which is just what the rock scene needs. More soon I hope!
Review – Richard Brake
Photos – Michelle Ballard
