Henry and the Bleeders, Delinquents, Desperate Cycle.

Esquires Bedford Lev 2. 23rd December 2005.

The last gig on Level 2 this year saw a three piece line up of young punk talent.

As we now approach the 30th anniversary of the Punk revolution, it is strange to think that a genre apparently built on the ability to drink yourself into a coma and an inability to play your instruments properly should have proved so influential. However, it impossible to ignore that so many groups were inspired by Punk - perhaps the generations leading lights, the Lydons and the Strummers, were more talented that they were given credit for. To see their influence still inspiring the young lads playing in the bands tonight was heartwarming on a cold winters night.

Milton Keynes based DESPERATE CYCLE demonstrate their own brand of aggressive anthems. They launch their set with 'Life Without Freedom', but see their progress interrupted by a broken drum pedal. This does not seem to dent the boys spirit as 'Fuel Your Fire' powers along. The outspoken 'Brand New Riot' precedes 'Young and Wasted' which includes full-on crowd participation.

The impressive DILENQUENTS made a most welcome return to Level 2. The Bleeders protégés impressed everyone tonight with a 11 song set of quick fire sublime hate. 'Out of Control' exuded anger and perfectly summed up the groups supercilious stance on stage. Throwing in a couple of new songs, notably 'Force Led the Dead' was an exciting riposte. The band were further enhanced by the appearance of guest guitarist Steve who joined the boys for a quick song. The set finished with Dilenquents regular novelty turn 'Brown Eyed Whore', before they made their exit to 'We All Hate You' An enjoyable thirty minutes with all due credit due Jay, Mullet and especially drummer Larkin who had a most impressive Mohican.

Apologies for repeating myself, but it has to be stated time and time again that 2005 has been such a good year for so many young and diverse local bands and one of the truly most original has to be HENRY AND THE BLEEDERS. Since making their debut back in April their progress, both visually and musically, has been a joy to watch. Tonight the boys revert to their musical roots with psycho-billy Rock 'n' Roll with a Punk attitude. The most unique part of their set tonight had to be Quincy and his hugely impressive double bass which added such a rich feel and deep depth of sound to their portfolio of tunes. Adams initial appearance on stage as Father Christmas set the tone for the evening - they boys are going to have fun tonight! 'Strong Remain' and the tribute song to a dearly departed friend 'Martin' are touchingly performed. The regular stage invasions from an over excited crowd are keeping in touch with the mood of the evening. Bedford's answer to Billy Childish, i.e. Adam, sings a rockabilly version of Jingle Bells as only he can and the evening is rounded of with 'My Little Sister' which climaxes with a furious flurry. A great set and special credit must go to Quincy.