Karaoke Box at Smithfield Raw

Karaoke Box at Smithfield Raw

03 September, 2009
by: Gina Louise

Those guys down at the 360 Degrees record label sure know how to make a girl feel welcome. Greeted with a plethora of free gifts, drinks and food, I am introduced to the bands and shown to a prime pop-punk viewing spot. The gathering crowd appear inanely happy, and are the usual mix of facial hair, unnecessary glasses, and pristinely ironed ripped t shirts. The slightly inappropriate pop drivel that is pumping out of the speakers is lapped up by the crowd and when the bands take to the stage the musical juxtaposition is a little disconcerting, but incredibly welcome.

The punk styling of The Savants are first to hit the stage, and their polished look of metalhead come 80s porn star meets frightened teenager is a far cry from their harsh sound. As soon as fingers hit the strings they melt into one unique sound of reminiscent punk and pop rock with some bordering-on-shouty lyrics. They are having a great time performing, quite possibly as they know they are getting signed later this evening…

Next up are the Inwits, whose attitude and indeed performance cannot be contained by the meagre confines of the stage, and they end up moving to the dance floor. A little too big for their boots, the front man is pipped to the attention grabbing post by the lead guitarist who has a bit of the Noel Gallager attitude about him. Though rightly so, as after some technological set backs, he relishes the chance of a solo to pass the time, and pulls off a flawless Britpop tune. The drummer, though sporting a petrified throughout their entire set, is probably the highlight of the night and plays with an immense intensity that is unequalled through the night.

Main attraction The Supernovas finally make their appearance, and take to stage with a refreshing lack of attitude. The lead singer resembles Ian Curtis a little, both in buttoned up shirt and sporadic singing, though he later admits he isn’t quite there yet: “I’m not as energetic as him, I haven’t got my own little manic dance”. Their music is indie with a smattering of punk running through the backbone of their songs, and though not really my cup of tea, the stage presence these kids are oozing is incredibly convincing and I find my foot tapping away of its own accord.

Taking their influences from some random places, including the political attitudes of Castro and Chavez and the wry irony of Morrissey, the music is obviously tainted with a hint of social commentary. But then again you can’t make punk music without taking a stab at the government. Their seemingly naïve and boyish vocals are complemented with some skilful guitar riffs, and non intrusive drum beats, and they are really quite good.

After nipping back stage for a quick chat with these guys, I quickly realise that they are genuinely lovely, and excited about entering the music industry. Here is to hoping that the all consuming corporate machine of the music industry won’t taint their naivety and boyish charm.

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Gina Louise