Absent Kid, Bowfinger, Chester.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 15th July 2005.

Tonight, Hairbrush Records treated us to three up and coming young bands.

Local lads CHESTER returned to the venue after a lengthy lay-off and in my opinion I thought their performance tonight was their best ever. They effortlessly cruised through a six song set of brit-pop influenced gems, encapsulated by such compositions as 'Astro' and 'Lead Me'. I hope they don't leave it so long before they come back for a repeat performance!

Next up were Esquires favourties Lutonians, the one and only BOWFINGER! A twenty-five minute pop-punk musical feast was eagerly devoured by the appreciative crowd. All the old favourites were given an airing, plus a sprinkling of new tunes that had all the hallmarks of classic Bowfinger. They obviously enjoy playing live, and their enjoyment is so infectious that it cannot fail to spread to the audience.

The final band of the night were ABSENT KID. This five piece band from Colchester have recently signed a deal with legendary indie record label Fierce Panda and are due to play many of the summer festivals. Ebullient front man Martin Williams sang with real passion and feeling, especially evident on tracks 'Mis-adventure' and 'Split the Indifference'. Clearly influenced by such acts as Idlewild and Pavement, it remains to be seen whether Absent Kid will be the next Coldplay or the next Terris (remember them?).