Shapes, Brigante, The Measure, 91 Pieces.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 10th April 2008.

With large banners hanging in every conceivable part of the venue, plus smartly dressed people clicking away on their cameras, it can possibly mean only one thing. The annual Red Stripe Music Awards have reached Bedford Esquires. After beginning at Manchester in early January, 26 towns around the country and 50 or so gigs have been hosting some of the best of Britain's unsigned bands. Described by some as the live music answer to the Mercury music prize, it was won last year by The Runners (who visit here next week).

Tonight is the final heat before next months grand final in London, so everything is certainly still up for grabs. A good sized turnout welcome, firstly, 91 PIECES whose musical strides have been evident these past eighteen months. Now backed up by a strong collection of their own written material, these urban punks are so much more confident. With a contrasting mixture of songs, the band say little, preferring to let their music do the talking. Although James does quip before their final song "This is Midland Road, so suck on these lemons!". 91 Pieces are certainly the cheeky chappies of the Bedford music scene!

THE MEASURE produce some funky vibes that start well with "Versatility" and "Ooh well", and reach a peak with "Good For Me" with the lyrics of "Let me in and let the good times begin" reverberating around my head. The set loses its way slightly after this, but the musicianship skills are good. However, I feel at the moment there is a slight lack of real passion in what they are doing.

About six months ago, local lads Rate Of The Day ditched their rather unflattering name in favour of BRIGANTE. Although a self-confessed 'film-numpty', I believe it has something to do with Al Pacino's character in Carlito's Way. The band make a spectacular entrance and rarely falter from it as they announce that they are going to "Play a bit of blues for ya". All immaculately attired, the vocalist shouts out "What do you think of the trilby and tie?". Yes, very smart and so are the braces and waistcoat! Fashion facts over, the music is also effortlessly performed. Tight and confident, they play as a unit and the songs are strong.

SHAPES travelled from Luton and are on top form. They inject some sharp indie tunes and even encourage the crowd to have a little dance to "Too Many Times". With a good mix of foot-tapping tunes and assured playing, the good things being talked about this band are all too evident to see. "Fistfights at Midnight" is developing into a catchy anthem and the high proportion of fans who journeyed here to see them were well rewarded.