The Sunshine Underground @ Brudenell Social Club
By Frances Ward
It may be cold outside, but the atmosphere inside the Phoenix Club-esque venue is anything but. With fierce rivalry and bitter competition all too common in most "scenes", the camaraderie and genuine mutual respect among the Yorkshire bands playing this evening is heartening to see, and sets the tone for the night. First up are The Fight. They get off to a promising start - convincing, driving guitars, overlaid with powerful, snarling vocals. However, although this band can be commended for their enthusiasm and energy, a lack of originality and an unfortunate absence of memorable melodies make them rapidly forgettable.
A short but enthusiastically received DJ set follows featuring local favourites 10,000 Things, then Hull band Park and Ride take their place on the stage. On first impressions, they look like five lads entering a pub karaoke competition for a laugh. However, from the moment the boys pick up their instruments, there isn't a foot in the venue that isn't instinctively tapping - it's simply impossible not to dance to this eccentric, sparkling disco-influenced rock. Think Le Tigre meets Electric Six, joining forces with Madness, and you'd be somewhere near. Any band that includes maracas, a tambourine and a harmonica in its arsenal is, in any sensible person's book, onto a winner.
And so - on to the main attraction. Adopted Leeds four-piece The Sunshine Underground are warmly received by the crowd - a cosy mix of regulars, friends of the bands, and local indie kids. TSU have been together for three years, and it shows - they have a commanding stage presence, and as a whole exude confidence and self-belief. Relaxed, stylish, and assured, they somehow manage to not cross the border into arrogance. Of course, all this would count for nothing if they couldn't boast a set of cracking tunes - lucky, then, that this is certainly not something this band have trouble with. Catchy, upbeat songs, dripping with hooks, the crowd is riotously appreciative, and rightfully so. The distinctive voice of frontman Craig Wellington dips and soars effortlessly; a glorious howl that both excites and enthrals - it is shown off to perfection in set highlight Commercial Breakdown. This is an electrifying, dominating performance from a band brimming with potential.
