18 August 2009 (gig)
18 August 2009
Music-News ventured north with its unsigned showcase earlier this month and are we glad we did! Music-news Underground hit Preston’s Mad Ferret, slap bang in the middle of the student district, with one of the finest line ups to date.
With the venue buzzing the first band to take to the stage were local lads The Escobars. Formed in late 2008 the five-piece displayed none of the amateur standard you’d expect - and even forgive - from a band that’s just six months old. Instead they delivered a slick indie rock set that set the tone for the night. Ryan Gough has all the cockiness and charisma you’d expect from a northern frontman while the band’s slightly gritty indie pop had the crowd on their feet with heads bopping and feet tapping.
Next to take the stage were the fantastic Bye Bye Johnny. By now stalwarts of the north-west music scene the Rochdale lads were the stars of the night with their strong post-punk melodies and clever delivery. Punchy guitars, infectious hooks and superb vocals from frontman Dan Seasman meant the boys delivered the performance of the night and left the crowd wanting more.
Next up were Howfen band Bony Ghosts with an energetic set of foot-stomping indie anthems that made anyone in the crowd who’d gotten a little distracted during changeover take notice! Big, atmospheric tracks that would work just as well at a festival or stadium as they did at the intimate Preston venue.
Finally Music-News favourites Inland Empire took to the stage, attracting the biggest crowd of the night despite being the only 'southerners’ on the bill the boys did not disappoint. Their fantastically-British indie rock melodies delivered with all the charisma we’ve come to expect from the Surrey boys - not to mention a genius cover of Easy Lover - meant the night ended on a high......and as is to be expected from an MN gig, a raging hangover the next day. Standard.
