Class of 2016
Over the last two years or so it has been a pleasure and privilege to watch some of the Norwich's younger musicians perform everywhere throughout the city from The Waterfront to The Bicycle Shop, and even at the side of Eaton skatepark, covering all genres from folk and jazz to post punk and hip hop. Despite their varying influences and musical genres, one thing that always impressed me was the camaraderie and mutual respect that all these acts appeared to have for one another, and the collaborative spirit that existed between them. This, surely, is how the vibrant 'musical scene' developed and continues to exist within Norwich.
Unfortunately for us, it is inevitable that a large number of these prodigious and enthusiastic musicians will spread their wings and leave the nest for pastures new, or the lure of university life. Some will return, but in the meantime it can mean the hiatus of many of these creative projects, and friendships that stretch back many years. For this reason, it seemed wholly appropriate and right that Norwich Arts Centre should host a farewell party for three of these departing acts from our Class of 2016 - Cabrakid, Dog's Dinner, and Lobster.
It was always going to be a night of celebration rather than virtuoso performance, a chance to say goodbye and good luck to friends and fellow band members, but it has to be said that Cabrakid rose to the occasion and turned in one of the best performances I had ever seen. High Priest Cabrakan and the Allergy Kid pumped out an assured mix of old favourites as well as still debuting new material. Their influences cover all bases, from Beastie Boys to Mike Skinner to Ghostpoet, but they deliver with a personal honesty that is totally captivating. Maya Law is brought on stage for a version of New Year, New Nothing, but it is the heartfelt Invitation and the love song Bun Maths that provided my departing memories of this talented duo.
Dog's Dinner have always brought a hurricane of fresh air into their performances, and tonight is no exception. Singer Josh is on top form, and it is going to take more than the Art Centre's safety barrier to stop him diving into the audience on more than one occasion. Tom, Tod and Jacob play on like the stoic troopers they always are. Special expletive emblazoned T-shirts have been printed for the evening, and have proved popular, as have the inflatables and the balloons. We are sure as hell going to miss this bunch of revolutionary lo-fi punks, their chaotic stage antics, and the unforgettable songs like Moth and Chlorine.
Lobster seem to have become such an integral part of the Norwich music scene over the past few years that their departure almost justifies a statue in their honour. Their infectious blend of jazz and funk has developed from a respectful homage of covers to a set that now delivers mostly self-penned numbers, although Molly makes her debut on stage tonight with a beautifully soulful version of American Boy. Dominic, as ever, is relaxed and comfortable in his role as Grandmaster Brass, organising the troops whilst his sax releases the coolest and sweetest of notes. This is perhaps not the most technically perfect set that I have seen them deliver, but this is party night and the large crowd are simply here for a good time. And that is what Lobster will be surely remembered for. The band that made jazz and funk cool again for a whole new generation.
The encore is a massed affair with Cabrakid and Dog's Dinner joining Lobster on stage whilst Molly leads everyone through the wholly appropriate celebration of Fatboy Slim's Praise You, followed by an equally apt and rapturous rendition of Curtis Mayfield's Move On Up to end not only an evening, but an entire chapter for Norwich's Class of 2016. Good luck to you all.
