Tuesday 8 April 2014

Live Review : Lords of the Riff Feat: Buffalo Summer / Monster Truck / Scorpion Child - Manchester, Roadhouse, UK : 27th March 2014


A horribly cold night in Manchester meant the thought of travelling to a gig was not top of my list or desirable things to do. However, when you have a bill stacked with three of the finest up and coming rock bands, there's no better way to get rid of the chill.

Welsh native, Buffalo Summer opened the night with a tight set that was loose and oozed groove. The standout moment was when the band showcased one of the lead tracks from their self titled album from 2013. The band really do know how to push peoples buttons live with their energetic performance being played out before a crowd wanting to see every band on the bill.

Throughout the tour, Scorpion Child and Monster Truck have traded closing duties; tonight it was the turn of Scorpion Child, so Monster Truck followed Buffalo Summer. Both bands carry many of the same traits musically. The classic rock feel of the songs clearly show that this is not just a 60/70’s throwback. Inevitably, the rotating cycle of style has found many bands of this ilk ‘must see’ when they hit the road. Tonight’s sold out show is a clear indicator of this.

Monster Truck’s use of organ in their songs sees the Deep Purple references hard to dodge. The gravelly tones of lead vocalist Jon Harvey sound excellent. With this grit being ably backed by a band that plays tighter than a nut, the band sounded absolutely tremendous, albeit sound checking as they went along! The crowd lapped up every moment of the Canadians’ set and were more than happy to sing along with the big choruses that the band supplied.

Scorpion Child took to the stage with the Roadhouse completely packed. Room to manoeuvre was at a premium. As previously mentioned, the motifs were very similar to that of the bands already showcased. One of the things that struck me with Scorpion Child was their ability to shift tempos quickly and seamlessly. The chorus of Polygon of Eyes moved from epic, arms aloft chorus to fast paced, ballsy rock in the blink of an eye. The soloing from the guitarists was clinical throughout the set, and the energy made sure that the gathered masses were treated to a stunning set, and capped a stunning night. Rock and roll is very much alive.

Words by : Dominic Walsh