The Peacocks, Henry and the Bleeders,The Dilinquents, Liam Vernon.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 17th August 2007.

Tonight saw the final "One For The Underground", and ironically in the week that saw the world mark the 30th anniversary of the passing of Elvis Presley, tonight's headliners THE PEACOCKS were recreating the look and sound that was so popular when Elvis was at the height of his powers back in the mid to late 1950's. However, for me, after watching and enjoying our very own Henry and the Bleeders, the novelty of punkabilly rhythms rather wore thin when this Swiss trio hit the stage. There's no doubt that they have their keen devotees. In fact, one such gentleman named "Rob from Corby" is following them on their current British tour which takes in Derby, Sheffield and Brighton. He and many others revel in The Peacocks' rolling beats which they slam-jive to as well as the singalong choruses. I admit it was interesting to see this band at Esquires, but I doubt if I would be keen to see them again.

With another punkabilly band playing in Bedford, I felt the pressure would be off during HENRY AND THE BLEEDERS' set, but judging by Henry's animated and, at times, sorely frustrated shouts to a rather limp and lifeless crowd I am not so sure! Ironically the first time our 'sleeping' audience come to life in when The Bleeders surprisingly play a cover (by The Stray Cats)! Henry is aghast! The monumental song-writing skills that this young band have produced in their 2 1/2 year career is again ably demonstrated. Arguably there is more musical depth to them now as a quartet.

The same very much applies to THE DILINQUENTS (sic), who's superb set impresses me tonight. Having taken Fergus "Love Muscle" and Robbie "Killer" on board, their presentation and sound is enhanced and as a result confidence oozes. Vocals are invariably split between the band. From the raw rough edges of the past everything is now being chamfered to a musical veneer!

Opening tonight was the very popular young "man mountain" that is LIAM VERNON. The traditional old Irish songs are given a typical 'Verny Lee' flavour! Thankfully not too much cider has passed his lips. In fact, Liam is not feeling too well tonight, but manfully he plays us four songs of which 'Botany Bay' is given its usual rambling monologue intro! While 'The Fields of Athenry' is played a la Dropkick Murphys. However his rendition of 'A Pair of Brown Eyes' is very much my favourite, bringing back great memories for this reviewer.