Cord, Dumb Angel, Drift, Diminishing Syndicate.

Esquires Bedford Lev 2. 28th January 2006.

In a week where the country developed Arctic Monkey mania and Hard Fi and Esquires Old Boys Editors landed no 1 and 2 albums, it’s worth reflecting just how healthy and strong guitar music is right now. It’s an exciting time at the moment, so please make sure that you are part of it, either playing in a band or attending gigs. You won’t regret it!

It Happened This Week - 2004

How many of you realise that this Saturday was the two year anniversary of a little band called the Ordinary Boys, featuring current media darling Preston, making their Esquires debut?

Tonight four indie-rock bands are on the bill courtesy of Hairgel. It opens with the wonderfully named the DIMINISHING SYNDICATE. A three piece local band who have been together for as many years as they have members. Although this is their first major gig at Esquires, on tonight’s performance I’m very surprised we have not seen them here before. With a variety of influences ranging from Green Day to The Foo Fighters their stage presence was most impressive. Although I assume they were desperately nervous, they showed no signs of it and played with purpose and passion. 'Dream Chaser' showed promise and 'Go And Find Him' was also a stand out.

DRIFT followed and performed a very enjoyable set, with their familiar songs 'Birds Without Wings' and 'Freedom In Chains' once again the stand out efforts. The band announced during their set that they would be taking some time out from performing as Josh (bass) is leaving for four months to go travelling.

DUMB ANGEL formed a year or so ago and feature Guy (guitar/vocals), Matthew (bass) and Ian (drums). Starting with 'Around Again', it’s clear to see that their tough apprenticeship performing in predominantly London venues is beginning to pay dividends, as they put a tight and professional set together. All compositions are written by Guy and this band deserved more from an apathetic crowd reaction. With some great tunes in the armoury, such as 'Too Close To You' and 'Under Bare Feet', it was sublime from start to finish.

CORD headline, a true indie band in all senses of the word. Cord are Phil (drums), Andrew (bass), Mike (guitar) and the star of the band tonight, James (vocals, keyboard, guitar). They ended 2005 supporting Kubb on his wicked soul tour and for most people here this evening they are totally unknown. The crowd soon warm to them, and unlike some recent indie touring bands, these Norwich lands are charismatic, warm, witty and above all, can really play. Opening with 'Eyes', the frequent instrument changes that James indulges in proves fascinating as Cord cruise into 'Why I Want It' to the melodic 'Sea Of Trouble', before ending their Esquires visit with 'The Greater Part'. Cord most certainly made a host of new friends tonight.