The Foxes, BetaBoy, Watch the Walls.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 9th October 2009.

"Hi, we're THE FOXES!" is the opening greeting from vocalist Nigel Thomas. It's a pleasure to see them once again at Esquires, especially after their successful visit back in February. The opening "Lover Killer" proves to be a strong start. It captures everyone's attention with it's ferocious guitar led intro. What makes this song tick is the riff that constantly gnaws at my brain. The catchy chorus cries of "I've got to get away from your heart" are sung with real feeling and angsty romantic pain. Musically, The Foxes offer a riot of colour, contrast and cleverness. The infusion of some ska beats bears this out on "Trauma Town". "The Hermit" is reminiscent of Blur in the Brit pop era. "Hey Baby" is beautifully netted by some effortlessly heart-tugging vocals. "Why do you drink so much baby?" is the lament.

The tribute to "Bill Hicks" starts with a barrage of cascading drums, courtesy of Steve Wilde, before Jon and Alex introduce some scuzzy guitar work. The song is of major importance to the band, as are the musings of the late Bill Hicks. The lads tell us that when The Foxes first formed, it was because they were sick and tired of watching bands who appeared empty and soulless in an attempt to be cool or trendy. Bill's famous rant ends with the classic quote "Play from your f*****g heart!". Every bands aim, I would think. "Something About You" is a song inspired by a nineteen year old model from LA. I will say no more. A slightly slower "No Reply" sees them step off the gas to reveal The Foxes' vulnerable side. "Run" shimmers with style and invention, while "Suzy" rounds the set off superbly. Once again The Foxes did not disappoint. I think they enjoy their journeys to Bedford. They tell of their pre-gig- meal in one of the finest eating houses in town! Approachable at the end of their show, their return is once again hotly anticipated.

BETABOY hail from the Ampthill area, fresh on the scene during 2009. Once again they transform a relatively empty level 2 to an electric buzzing atmosphere. Their followers stride in as the quartet are setting up. A Betaboy party is in the making, I feel. With the addition of some playful synths, their catchy tunes are complemented perfectly. A lethal combination of tangled up guitars and vocal yelps. Truly a breathless and breezy thirty minutes. Interesting influences abound. Let's define it as 'wonky new wave'! Their effervescent front man, sensing his fans need a little cajoling, issues his command early on "Lets see you dancing. We want plenty of wey-ho's!". The quartet are up and running with "Not There". A faint flavour of The Klaxons seems to come though on this song. Chirpy guitar riffs aplenty as Betaboy burn with a fierce intensity. The enjoyable "Another Day" and especially "Good Girl" impress. "Taking it Easy" rings out around the room. "All of this Time" is last orders for a dance.

Punky youngsters WATCH THE WALLS have got their new vocalist waiting in the wings. Although he is not ready for this gig, he does join in for 'The Wall's closing song "You know". Special mention must be made of this band as they stepped in at the last minute to offer cover for two bands who cancelled late on. Once more, Watch The Walls delivered with a big splash of red-cheeked youthful energy.