The Instants

My initial reaction as the catchy guitar riff to Salvation found its way to me, was that tiny smile and soft nod of someone 'in the know'. Having already checked out The Instants' Myspace page (myspace.com/theinstants) before the gig, I knew they were going to be this good. Those who had found a space on the dancefloor started moving to the bouncy rock melody, which had a subtle tinge of ska that inevitably induced some amusingly drunken skanking in between all the general pogo-ing.

I shoot a 'told you they're wicked!' glance at my friend, who doesn't notice me - his head is bobbing along to Summer of Hate by now, and he only returns his attention to me, to jab me in the ribs and comment on how sexy vocalist/keys-lady Caz Straight is.

The great thing about the Instants' music is that their witty, dark lyricism is skilfully complemented with an upbeat rock sound and a plethora of catchy vocal and guitar motifs guaranteed to catch your attention and get you moving. The Instants look at home on stage and have a great rapport, with talented drummer (The Great Barnetto), guitarist (Pete) and bassist (Les Miserable), effortlessly providing the melodies over which Caz plays keys and sings vocal harmonies in her own unmistakable fashion - somehow achieving shy and sultry at the same time. Finally, Steve Daines provides lead vocals with all the energy and drama I'd expect from the frontman of an eclectic punk-pop outfit - the angst of each song etched on his face, while the rest of the band press on with delivering cheeky upbeat tones. It’s precisely this mix that gives The Instants their edge.

All in all a thoroughly impressive set. If The Instants happen to be performing at a venue near you I urge you, for your own good, to check them out. And if not - you could always contact them for one of their shiny new demos and hear for yourself what all the shout is about,