As many of the original punk bands are currently celebrating
their 40th anniversaries, its fantastic to see a new generation of punk bands make
it on to the scene. On Friday, I was lucky enough to
see two groups from this new wave of Punk.
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| Proletariat |
Before they'd struck the first chord, my dad turned to me to
say, "he's wearing a Cramps t-shirt. They must be good." For once, he
wasn't talking bollocks! Beginning with their, soon to be released, single, Proletariat
created a commanding sound, reminiscent of Rage Against The Machine with
building, repetition of the line, 'everybody's talking, nobody's listening' and driving
guitar rhythms. With their clever lyrics, Proletariat are a band with strong,
political principles, effortlessly sung with genuine conviction by frontman,
James Cummings, supported by the accomplished musicians, Connor Dolan, Aaron
Hall, Luke O'Reilly. The band's energy and passion for their music, flooded
from the stage and created an electrifying atmosphere, thrilling the audience.
Ending the set with their current single, Mr Brown- an artful, strident tune,
with edgy lyrics. If you're into heavy, hardcore punk, Proletariat are the band
for you!
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| Matt, guitarist of Touts, sporting a Feargal Sharkey jumper |
For all of those of you who aren't from Derry, a tout is
another word for a snitch or informer. Emerging onto the stage, looking
somewhat like Feargal Sharkey and The Undertones, Touts started as they're
meant to go on, with their own brand of fast, redefined 70s punk. It's clear to
see why there has been so much talk and excitement around the band as they
played their way through a distinctive, vibrant set of pulsating tunes. The 3
piece bounced about the stage with the confidence and ease that only skilful
musicians can do. Jason, Luke and Matt proudly demonstrated their roots of the
Northern Irish punk scene, bringing elements from The Outcasts, The Undertones
and Stiff Little Fingers up to date with their very own, innovative 21st century
punk. Like Proletariat, Touts incorporate their political views in their songs
but they also reflect the day-to-day life growing up in a place like Derry.
These truly talented musicians entertained us superbly and left the stage
rapturous applause, having defiantly increased their following. Let's hope they
go onto bigger and better things- they certainly deserve to! Perhaps supporting
Paul Weller in February will provide exposure.
What brilliant night- I look forward to seeing both bands
play again soon!
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