Introducing Present Endtroducing Live at Peepshow

Introducing Present Endtroducing Live at Peepshow

18 March, 2009
by: Trol23

When I first heard that members of Laroca were putting together a live version of DJ Shadow's amazing 'Endtroducing' album I was intrigued to say the least. 'Endtroducing' is, after all, an album entirely composed of samples. I was dubious that it would make for a coherent show, but Peepshow has a well deserved reputation for putting on fantastic nights and this one turns out to be no exception.

Walking in to 12 Acklam Road I'm always impressed by the sound which really kicks out of the sci-fi looking speaker stacks either side of the stage. Behind the decks is the best Dj you haven't heard of, Del Gazeebo. He always brings a quality mix of hiphop and breakbeats to the party and his Brighton-based Soundly Beaten label puts out some classic bootlegs. The night finds him in fine form and I'm nodding along to classic and unknown tunes in equal measure.

Having warmed things up nicely, Laroca take to the stage to preview their second album 'Valley of the Bears'. It's an impressive slice of jazzy funky business but I get the impression that a lot of the audience are waiting for the full Introducing line-up before they take an interest and the reception is less enthusiastic than it could have been. But by the time Peepshow Paddy introduces 'Introducing' the place is full and the vibe is right.

The front man and lady of Introducing provide all the vocal elements of the Shadow album and as the opening of 'Best Foot Forward' the narration that speckles Entroducing is revealed for the first time and it's as if those words I've heard a thousand times take on a new air of poetry. In fact I come away from the whole event feeling like I've witnessed an art piece more than I feel like I've been to see a band.

I think the highlight was the version of Organ Donor. It's probably the most well known tune from the album so it gets a great reception but hearing it live is amazing. The drummer really makes the whole thing work. He's tucked away behind everyone but should really have been the front man. The album has such incredible drum programming and bits which sound like they would be unplayable but it's all here, live! A mention should also go to the bassist Rob Pollard who plays with both Laroca and Introducing and kept me grooving nicely. The only thing I wasn't impressed by was the front lady whose voice sounded strained, at best, but all in all it was a very polished performance from Introducing.

Peepshow Paddy finished the night off with a typically kicking set. If you've not had a chance to see him play I recommend it, either at his spiritual Peepshow home or in a festival field over the Summer with his Disco Shed. As I wonder home there is a distinct smile on my face, Peepshow is always a pretty diverse night, but the smile afterwards is it's running theme.

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Trol23