Recovery, Peter Ouse.

Esquires Bedford Lev 1. 26th January 2006.

The popularity of 'Showcase Thursday' is maintained as two more young talents are given some much deserved exposure and the experience of performing in front of a live audience.

PETE OUSE is first on and takes to the mic in his trademark sheepskin coat, looking every inch like footballs very own 'Ron Manager. In fact, the biggest shock of the night is the fact that he took of his beloved jacket to play!
For those who have not see Pete Ouse play, let me say he is quite simply a unique young artist as he plays with his own pre-recorded backing track and sings and plays a guitar over the top. Tonight support is provided by Bax who plays keyboards for the first three songs. Unfortunately, there are a few technical problems at the start. However, these were soon ironed out and the half hour set was well received. I was especially fond of the song 'Jet Black River'.
Tonight was possibly the last Pete Ouse solo show as in the coming months Baz is due to become more involved, and there may even be a drummer involved.

Just recently Esquires has been under invasion from bands hailing from Leighton Buzzard and the latest to hit our 'shores' are RECOVERY. They are a four piece indie-rock band comprising of Michelle Christian (Vocals), Colin Clay (guitar), Dan Biggs (bass) and Scott Bickets (drums). The band have been together for around three years and although unsigned, have recently agreed a deal with a major surf/snow board company which they hope will raise their profile.
Michelle greeted everyone with a cheery 'Enjoy the Cabaret' and as soon as she stared singing you could hear why Recovery are often compared to No Doubt. The song 'Go' has lovely haunting vocals which are enhanced by huge chunky and funky riffs. The much rockier 'My Window' is driven by Scott's powerful drumming and 'Thinking of You' is pitched somewhere between Jazz and Grunge, creating a 'Girlvana' sound!
Ending a very professional set with the heavy 'Without You' the crowd demand an encore and Recovery respond with the dynamic and aptly titled 'Losing Control'!