Royston Jones, Tinker Jack, Kilto Take, Amy and the Integrals.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 26th January 2008.

In a week when we have had numerous musicians from all the far flung corners of the British Isles, tonight was very much a cosy little intimate Bedford evening. However, we did invite some friends from Hertfordshire to join in. With a sizeable crowd turning up to create the much sought after atmosphere, an enjoyable evening was had by all.

One of the joys of Level 2 last year was watching the blossoming talents of Miss AMY LEE. Her acoustic performances were at times mesmerising. Well 2008 sees ‘Our Amy’ joining forces with friends Frankie Sparrowhawk and Edwin Ireland to form Amy and the Integrals. It seems quite an exciting time for the trio as they showcase their current e.p. which precedes their forthcoming album. With ‘Through The Glasses’ and then ’20 and a Reject’, it’s an up tempo start. It is only when the slow ballad ‘Tonight, takes effect that we get a chance to digest this talented threesome. ‘I Need Your Help’ builds slowly before blowing us away at it’s peak. With Amy there is always a cover, tonight it’s ‘Valerie’. But for me, the highlight of the set is ‘Chavs of 2023’. As I write this review, it appears to be Sunday afternoon and it’s still the tune that’s playing in my head.

A first visit to Esquires and a good reception of Stevenage based KILTO TAKE, a funny name for a talented quartet, namely Mark Brooks (vocals), Jon Crosby (guitar, vocals), Lee Spavins (drums) and Karl Grant (bass). Unbelievably, this is only their third gig. Apart from the noticeable pauses between songs, it’s a great effort. They speak of the honour of appearing on Level 2 and the crowd, who are naturally unfamiliar with the lads, reciprocate their enthusiasm. In fact, one of their songs, ‘Captured On Polaroid’ was only completed this week. It was performed superbly, as a band they remind me of Doves. High Octane with both sweet and mellow lyrics.

TINKER JACKS appearance tonight is tinged with a certain degree of sadness, as this is guitarist Kristian Purcell’s last gig with the band. Seeking new pastures, I suppose. As a thank you to him, all the songs we have come to love and expect are duly performed. The soulful ‘Free Ride’ is followed by the country rock strains of ‘Criminal’. It’s as always Bedford Americana at it’s very best. The question arises however, just who will whistle the intro to ‘Arkansas’ in the future? ‘Baby Be Lonely’ completes the set as Tinker Jack sing so magically ‘You’ve Got The Beat Of My Heart’.

Headlining are ROYSTON JONES, who provide an uplifting set of tunes. The self-titled album is now complete and Josh and the boys put the proverbial flesh on the bone as they effortlessly cruise through a sublime performance. Thankfully it includes the MySpace favourite ‘Good Days’, a song that never fails to lift the spirits. But then I can say the same about the funky ‘Bring Me Down’ or the ‘Wake Up-Break Up’ song. Marvellous!