The Invisible // Norwich Arts Centre - 09.03.10
Having come quite late in my discovery of The Invisible, following their Mercury award nominated album last year, I was very pleased to get this opportunity to see them live. From a jazz background, this trio of fine musicians are pretty much indescribable in genre…in trying to sum them up to a friend, I said “a cross between Daft Punk, The Cure, Prince, Massive Attack and Catherine Wheel. So yes. Indescribably catchy and unforgettable.
Support tonight was from The Olympians, a local group of young men who obviously have considerable talent which simply needs to be more carefully toned. A bit Vampire Weekend in style, they all played well but I felt it did not hang together cohesively and their slight over confidence when speaking to the audience didn’t really work for them at this early stage.
After a late soundcheck due to “gear problems”, the Invisible take to the stage, which feels immediately about 10 times smaller due to the imposing presence of singer Dave Okumu (regular Matthew Herbert collaborator) aided by Leo Taylor (drummer with Hot Chip) and Tom Herbert (from jazz terrorists Polar Bear). Although there are only 3 of them they filled the room with full and beautiful music for one holy hour. A rather small audience foot tapping were dancing proper within the first couple songs, particularly to the upbeat London Girl.
Improvised and extended to up to 15 minutes at times, most of the songs from their debut album were played tightly and with obvious pleasure by The Invisible. I could’ve happily listened to Dave’s superb guitar playing, very much like The Cure’s sound, Leo’s dance beats and Tom’s great keyboard skills for many more hours. This was a gig for people who love an infectious and yet musical beat and enjoy watching people play who enjoy playing live. If you get the chance to see them, please do so. Two key tracks to listen to? Constant and London Girl.
Lizz Page
