The Dead 60s, New Groove Formation, The Culture.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 17th June 2007.

Reviewed by Martin Stapleton / Pictures by Martin Ward - www.lemonclick.co.uk

A real coup by One For The Underground saw a special Sunday evening warm-up show by 2-tone revivalists THE DEAD 60s. Just over two years ago they released their eponymous debut album which spawned a smattering of singles. Now they are on the verge of releasing their follow-up and have an extensive tour planned for July and August. The Ska-Scousers waste no time, as upon entering the stage to loud cheers they open with 'All Over by Midnight' which is rapidly followed by 'Liar' and 'Start a War'. Vocalist Matt then pauses only briefly to give us a quick "Cheers and thankyou". The only other words I think the band uttered during their half-hour visit was a quick "Hello Bedford"!

This quartet are only here to hone their skills in a small venue in preparation for the busy months ahead. They balance their twelve song set with a few oldies, of which their biggest single to date 'Riot Eadio' brings the loudest cheer of the night. The somewhat reticent crowd finally get into the party spirit and start jumping and dancing, finally putting out of their minds that its Monday tomorrow!
Some delicious Reggae sounds emanate from 'We Get Low' while the dub booms through on 'You're Not The Law", both from the first album. The newer material, on first listen at least, is less daring and risky but it's certainly a lot more commercial. The songs are certainly anthemic and catchy, which includes their next single 'Stand Up'. Variety shone through on 'Jam' which includes bongos and a cowbell whilsy the sound effects on 'Dull Towns' are amazing. The Dead 60s return for an encore and its their classic top thirty hit 'Ghostfaced killer'. It's a perfect send off for both band and crowd, a real high to leave on. For a mere five pounds, I would have thought that everyone has had good value for their money tonight.





Supporting The Dead 60s are firstly THE CULTURE. This improving band are hampered tonight by Eddie's sore throat. They manfully pull through and include 'Everybody's Talkin', their 'newest tune' and a great finish with 'Cab Driver'. A perfect introduction to the many people here tonight who had possibly not seen them before.

Main support are my favourites, the mighty NEW GROOVE FORMATION. Although there are new songs in the can, tonight the eight-piece collective stay true to the tried and trusted formula. I somehow felt that the crowd were far too reserved, as New Groove's music is all about dancing, bobbing, skanking, and above all partying, which the punters tonight didn't really seem to grasp. Perhaps they had only come to see The Dead 60s. With the brass section in total unison and the unique 'didge' man awe-inspiring in his solo slot, the only worry we got was when bass guitarist Faz got a little carried away with his climbing exploits and wobbled on top of one of the mighty speakers!