Last Man Standing, Son of a Gun, Symbo.

Lev 1 Esquires Bedford. Thursday 10th November 2005.

Paul Craven's Thursday showcase this week threw the spotlight on three up and coming band tonight. For me, by far the most impressive were Leighton's Buzzard's four piece SYMBO. A strange (and, to be honest, less than impressive) band name but regardless of that they ensured the evening had a spirited start. Symbo comprise of Del (vocals/guitar), Aaron (guitar/vocals), Andy (bass) and Booze (!?!) (drums). Symbo formed three years ago under the previous moniker of Pipedown and tonight played a free-flow, smooth running set of power-pop punk tunes. Special mention must go to Del who stage presence was, to say the least, lively and ultra-athletic.

SON OF A GUN pitch from dear old Milton Keynes and to describe them would be to ask you to imagine Mark E. Smith fronting Motley Crue! Yes, they really are that surreal! With Jason (vocals), Simon (guitar), Alex (bass) and Beef (drums - what is it with drummers names these days!?!). With Jason standing out from the rest of the band and Beef twizzling his sticks the band performed some good old standard rock, including 'If I Were You' and 'Can't Take'. I particularly enjoyed the guitarist cajoling the audience several times to 'Come On!'

Headlining tonight were local favourites LAST MAN STANDING who are on top form as they take us through their ska-punk set which fluctuated from older songs such as 'Something New' and 'Devil's Answerphone' before we enter uncharted waters with bang up-to-date newie 'Far Away', which certainly seemed to find favour with their fans.