Faster Inferno, Mash.

Esquires Bedford Lev 1 Thursday 20th July 2006.

Showcase Thursday most certainly returned with a mighty bang tonight with acoustic performer Mash and a mini-coup for the venue in the form of Faster Inferno. More of Mash later, but what of our visitors consisting of Matt Taylor (vocals), Phil France (drums) Gianzo (bass) and a certain individual named Tyson Schenker (guitar). If that surname seems a little familiar, it is because his father is none other than Michael Schenker of Scorpions, UFO and the Michael Schenker Group.
FASTER INFERNO were formed in 2003 at Cambridge University by Tyson and Matt whose joint love of music and, in particular, the blues was the initial catalyst. Although they never intended the band to be anything other than 'a bit of a laugh', things subsequently became more serious and at present the boys are on a tour of the U.K. and have a forthcoming slot at the Eacken Festival in Germany.
With heavy rock currently in vogue thanks to bands such as Wolfmother and The Answer, Faster Inferno seem to be in the right place at the right time as opening tracks '(Roll On) Sweet Revenge' and 'Wrong Devil' neatly demonstrates their old school rock credentials. The elongated finale to 'Love' blends with the opening bars to 'Gentleman' and Matt's plaintive Robert Plant'esque cries give tise to a scorching Schenker guitar solo. With a cool stage presence, Tyson's bandana and Gianzo's cigarette permanently hanging lazily from his mouth.
As well as their own well crafted compositions they perform a rattling good version of Arlo Guthries 'Coming into L.A' before giving way to 'The Raiders of Rock'n'Roll', their final song and a perfect end to a hot sultry evening of blues rock. I understand promoter Paul Craven is hoping to get the boys back for a show on Level II - get yerself along, you won't be disappointed.

Preceding Faster Inferno is acoustic musician MASH who, as all Esquires gig-goers will know, was a vital component of Ska-Rockers Last Man Standing (who at present are on hiatus due to one of their member's National Service). He has a shy and reserved demeanour and begins in a nervous fashion playing without his trusty bandmates. He runs through a collection of L.M.S. favourites including 'Rise Up' and 'Devil's Answerphone', tunes we have come to know and love. Mash grows in confidence with every passing note and song and his style and easy going manner does total justice to each composition.