Plan Nine

So it was that we entered the Barfly armed with a stomach full of booze and a head full of stupidity intent on enjoying Plan Nine’s very own brand of rock n roll. First of all though we had to endure the utterly terrible Electric December. They sounded like a stodgy, boring version of Joy Division. It didn’t matter that the sound left a lot to be desired (a running theme throughout the gig) these guys would have crashed and burned regardless.

Next up were a lovely little punk outfit called Dana Jade. At least I think that’s what the intention was only we couldn’t hear what was going on for most of the set due to the sound person deciding to bludgeon all the instruments together to create a wall of noise. Phil Spector they were not. What we did hear was ok but you got the feeling the only reason people really cared was due to the insanely attractive front woman who’s penetrating glance made many of the lads in the crowd go all stupid.

It was about this time that we found out why the sound was being so tempermental. It turned out the night was a showcase for a music course. This included the people at the sound desk. It was hard to bear this revelation in mind though when third band Plan Nine took to the stage. Yes the band were definitely there, yes the bassist was definitely playing something. Whatever it was remains a mystery to this day as Mr sound person decided there was no need for bass in a classic rock n roll band. I turned round to check that the sound desk wasn't being manned by a cheeky monkey and to my astonishment the sound person had multiplied into sound persons. Talk about too many cooks.

Finally though the bass was resurrected and Plan Nine got on with the job of being by far and away the best band of the night. The lads stormed through a short but sweet set of rock n roll. Think Free with a dash of Led Zeppelins musical muscle and you have Plan Nine. These boys know a good hook when they see one and belted out some fantastic riffs that on any other night - and with any other sound person(s) - would have sounded quite spectacular. They’re a band to look out for.

So the sound wasn't up to it but that's not to take anything away from Plan Nine. They gave us a rollicking show full of swagger and attitude. They manage to meld moments of psychedelia with mammoth rock riffs and ended the night on a high. To the sound desk's credit they gave it a go and tried their best. When they did manage to get it together the night was very enjoyable. The inescapable fact with music is that its something you can only really enjoy with your ears. Unless of course you’re a Kiss fan, then it really doesn’t matter.

http://www.myspace.com/plannineband