Explosions In The Sky
On the first date of their latest British tour , Paul Raven sees Texan instrumental outfit Explosions in the Sky blast away the winter blues with a set of stunning atmosphere and passion at the Concorde 2 in Brighton
Reuben
Paul Raven watches up-and-coming local metal act Kill Kenada and still under-rated post-hardcore act Reuben play thunderous sets to a sell-out crowd at the Wedgewood Rooms in Portsmouth
Electric Six
The Electric Six have a reputation for being a dynamic and incendiary live act, but Paul Raven finds little to be inspired about at a show at the Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms
Biffy Clyro
At a show at the Pyramids in Portsmouth Paul Raven watches maths rockers Biffy Clyro play a catchy and enjoyable set of indie guitar rock, but also is impressed by suppoer acts yourcodenameis : milo and Frank Turner
Nine Black Alps
At the Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms Paul Raven enjoys an unpretentious set of grunge rock at a hastily assembled gig by much acclaimed local group, Nine Black Alps
These Arms Are Snakes
At a prog rock night at the Southampton Joiners, Paul Raven finds that the movement has thankfully moved a long way on from the overblown concept albums of the late 70's, and much to recommend from several acts on the bill including Americans These Arms Are Snakes and instrumental act Pelican
White Hassle
Durable stoner rockers Clutch and fiery young upstarts the Sword recently toured Britain together. At the Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms Paul Raven finds both bands unique brand of dirty rock and roll totaally compulsive
Long Blondes
The Long Blondes have been attracting good reviews and strong audiences for their 80's inspired new wave pop. On the last night of their recent British tour, Paul Raven finds them, however, lacking in both energy and passion
Mr Hudson and the Library
Only able because of a delay in their start time to catch fifteen minutes of their performance at the Joiners Arms in Southampton, Paul Raven nevertheless sees much to commend in new act Mr Hudson and the Library's catchy indie pop sound