Novocaine, Solvent UK, Transatlantic Sound.

Esquires Bedford Lev 2 22nd July 2006.

Tonight was a bit of a challenge. Martin is on holiday and I have promised to review the bands, despite having no knowledge of who or what is on until I get here. I have been told to stay to the end.

TRANSATLANTIC SOUND were the first band of the evening. Hands up if you wish yer mum had called you Liam or Noel! Oasis wannabees of the highest order, which makes the band name a bit odd. Should be vaguely Manchester Area in the Early Nineties Sound. You know the sort of thing – a bit of Stone Roses guitar, a bit that sounds like The Charlatans….I felt like I was listening to a load of cover versions that I couldn’t quite place. Basically I’ve heard it all before.

SOLVENT UK were next. Another disappointing name as they were neither dirty glue-sniffin’ punks or obviously wealthy. A bit more interesting though. Sounds a bit like early Lemonheads – after the hardcore stuff, but before the chart stuff. But less attractive. They are better than the first lot, but then I hate Oasis so its not that hard. Drummer appeared to have a face too large for his head.

And finally NOVACAINE. I’ve found Nemo. Oops, my mistake. Its just the bass player in a rather garish polo shirt. Normally bands that play this sort of whiny, shouty tedious emo-style wank are about 15. This lot are old enough to know better. I know I promised to stay to the end, but my will has failed by the end of the third song. Sorry Martin! Maybe as a promotion they could actually give away painkillers at the door. Worth a try lads. It may have dulled the ache in my soul.