The Killers @ Cockpit
By Holden DeForge
Straight outta Norway and also seemingly straight outta the 80's. Surferosa blast out synth powered rock riffs in their longship of bright hooks and disco beats, all helmed by a mentalist, high kicking frontwoman. She's like the bastard love child of David Lee Roth and former TVAM fitness freak 'Mad' Lizzie. Constantly bouncing around the stage and attempting to whip up the crowd it seems even the duracell bunny on viagra couldn't keep up with her. The guitarist and bass player crank out some heavy duty riffage, throwing shapes and moving in unison to create a rock heavy back bone on top of which perfect pop melodies can glide. The crowd cheer louder after each song but never quite seem to bite the hook fully. Maybe next time though.
With a couple of fine singles already under their belt, an impending album and warmly received past visits to Leeds, The Killers walk on stage to an expectant and eager audience. The four piece from Las Vegas have that Strokes-esque kinda cool about them, but with the laid back swoon of Vegas rather than New Yoik attitude and posturing. Musically there's evidence of The Strokes along with Duran Duran in the pomp pop of 'Somebody Told Me' and at times even Shed Seven. Maybe it's because somebody mentioned it to me earlier in the night but there are some definite Rick Witterisms along the way, at one point I almost find myself singing 'Where Have You Been Tonight'. I think the York scene was quite an influence on the Nevada one.
The band seem to lack a little bit of zip and zest, maybe it's because of all the anticipation but I find myself feeling a little disappointed. There are plenty of fine moments within the songs, sing along moments that stick in your head, whistleable melodies and rhythms to shake your fine ass to. Effect laden guitars and wailing synth fuse in with the tumbling drums and rumbling bass but there is still a certain something missing. The band seem almost lethargic at times, they could slay this crowd tonight but seem happy inflicting merely a flesh wound. The awesome 'Mr Brightside' closes the set, but even this doesn't quite hit the heights it really ought to. The Killers could do with borrowing Surferosa's vigour if they want to commit more than just one homicide.
