Portion, Fruition, Presidents of Park Street, Sister Ray.

Esquires Bedford Lev 2 13th October 2006.

Our headliners tonight, needing no introduction whatsoever, are PORTION. With frontman and vocalist Blaine released from the asylum and on the loose for the evening, the only possible end product will be a chaotic and totally unpredictable riot of a time.
Like an alcoholic needs their brew, this lad needs his adoring public and the lordly stage show is ready to begin. As the rest of the band thrash out 'Boy Scout' our Blaine very nearly strangles himself with his rather long scarf. Thankfully he doesn’t, but his attention is drawn towards a female friend in the audience for who he has a quick word, before cheekily introducing the next song 'Big Red'.
While the rest of Portion play on regardless, it's time for Blaine to indulge in his well known stage gymnastics prior to 'Anti-virus', although he advises us not to listen to the lyrics. After this energetic activity he takes some time out to light up a ‘cancer stick’ on stage, something his dad once told him not to do. Did he listen? Last time Portion were here I told Blaine not to swing on the lighting rigging. Did he listen? Obviously not as 'Blind faith' draws him to his beloved rigging!
As Portion end with 'Whatever', Blaine lays prostrate on the mosh pit. Please, please don’t ever lobotomize this one-off character!

Support came firstly from SISTER RAY, whose edgy umcomfortable acoustic sounds impressed me so much on their debut. As opposed to that gig, tonight's audience is to be applauded for the respect that they showed the duo (ie: no chatting). Genna’s sultry blood curdling screams interlock perfectly with the crisp finger plucking she and Guiseppe induce from the dark European flavoured guitar sounds. Serious hard-hitting subjects are tackled. Its brutal folks, but brilliant.

Luton’s PRESIDENTS OF PARK STREET followed, having supported The On-offs in June (which I missed due to Bedrock). I felt it took a few songs for the boys to kick into gear and flow fully. Once they did I was hooked. The later compositions 'Stop' and 'Fistfights at Midnight' are majestically performed with plenty of vigour. Overall it’s an interesting introduction to a four piece with obvious potential.

FRUITION have supported, and at times outshone, some quality bands this year. By sheer hard work and practice they have crafted and are perfecting their glorious uplifting sounds. They are promoting their just released, brand spanking new, EP entitled “Black Mariah” which is excellent tonight. It’s a perfect pop song very much like the rest of their hugely enjoyable nine song set.