Spring King @ Norwich Arts Centre
An upbeat first night of Norwich Sound & Vision 2015.
As the weekend slowly edges closer, we find ourselves at Norwich Arts Centre on an upbeat first night of Norwich Sound & Vision 2015.
Providing an odd but strangely brilliant beginning to the evening, Norwich duo Rosa and Jenny are Let’s Eat Grandma, a psychedelic enchanting pair that combine a creepy atmosphere with musically versatile and impressive stylings. A mixture of recorders, keyboards, synths, drums, guitar, loop pedals and probably more elaborate instruments up their sleeves, Let’s Eat Grandma hypnotise the audience with their unique whimsical and futuristic sound. They’re young and dedicated. Rosa and Jenny go far more than presenting a set of songs; they present a performance with lights, sound, and movement that leave the crowd in a stunned stupor.
Next are Best Friends, previously seen on the BBC Introducing stage at Big Weekend back in May. Their look is strong - they hit their target indie audience before even playing any instruments with old band t shirts and ear-length hair. Seeming meek to begin with, their set defies this in a single strum; their songs really getting the crowd going (shout out to the two incredibly drunk women at the front who looked like they were off to a 50’s swing night, you provided brilliant entertainment). As their set develops, so does the sound, the tracks getting stronger and the connection between audience and band developing. This fresh band are impressive and in-the-moment, and definitely ones to watch.
Spring King then take to the stage. These cheeky chaps from Manchester are already vibing a chirpy sweetness, something that really connects with the crowd. From the word go they’re superb, and the front row moshers/dancers/drunkards get properly into it. Mumma is highlight of the night, a song that kick-punches rebellion and happiness into a ball of musical greatness. The four piece smile at each other throughout and show a unity that’s refreshing and uplifting to see. The crowd is completely absorbed by Spring King, their hit song City causing chaos and uncontrollable movements. With only a 30 minute set it’s gutting to see them leave the stage, but they leave on a massive bang, going full throttle on all instruments closing the evening's musical stylings.
