Spiked, Kain.

Lev 1. Esquires Bedford. 3rd July 2010.

Throughout July and August, most people are either enjoying their summer vacations, or visiting one of the many annual music festivals held around the country. With this in mind, our promoter Pete Burridge has gone for a change in our regular Friday/Saturday night live music fix. For the next few weeks, we are headed for 'bands in the bar'. Last night Baedeker rocked out as only they can, ably supported by a stripped down, three piece Whybirds set. It was a high standard to start with, the loaded question being, could it be matched tonight?

There is quite an age range here. The young girls of Spiked are joined by the 'old' musical hands of Kain. For the latter, it's very much a late call up, but with a much anticipated river festival appearance coming up, the chance to gig is most welcome. It is apparent at the outset that there is a mutual bond between the contrasting bands. Each watches the other and Kain, who gained precious little respect on ther recent level 2 gig courtesy of a certain arrogant and under talented youngster on the same bill, are certainly bonding with Spiked.

KAIN are a welcome re-addition to the local music scene. This leftfield quartet are weighty, reflective and intense. As the set progresses they take it all in their stride and the muscular surge is near impossible to dodge. The two Neanderthal guitarists, Rob and Sid, duel for attention, while the energy that drummer Alan exudes is always amazing. Vocalist Ralph, by his own admission, is struggling with an ailing voice, but his messianic visuals must have healing powers as "SWNN" and "No" are full of thrilling rhythmic and melodic flourishes. All wrapped up in an air of effortless total competence, of course. "Faithless", which is "kind of a love song", has an epic opening which is gothic and churchlike in it's eerie organesque sound. The hard work that they are putting in at present offers the hope that this band can reach their desired goal. Unfortunately, there are major obstacles to encounter, the biggest one being an over saturated market. But hey, when they are performing and playing the music they love, the dream can still linger.

Oh what a shame that SPIKED are not from Bedford. Although we have adopted them, Hitchin's young girl trio would be an awesome and welcome addition. Tonight we are up close and personal with them as, for the first time, they play Danny's Bar. Punk influences fused to a grungy sound plus some Elastica buzzsaw guitar, they tear into their set with boundless confidence and razor sharp focus. Totally blessed with poise, considering their ages, they have such a street smart exterior. Crashing guitars and pounding drums, indeed having Spiked here is akin to finding a tenner under the sofa. They perform with such overwhelming love and passion. Diminutive Lolly is almost covered by the massive drumkit that she is sharing with Alan Kain tonight. Even in the cramped and restricted bar area, Sian and L.J. can still present a potent combination. The band are, at present, waiting to record some more music. These three musicians talk so passionately about their work and ply it most impressively. In Bedford, it's sad to report that, on the whole, girls don't do guitars. I sense tonight that there a few people unacquainted with Spiked. They are soon to be keen fans. Prior to new song "Pictures", Sian apologises and describes it as being "ropey", but the girls give the song full value with no problems. An enjoyable set is greeted at it's close with the usual cries for more. Sian's reply is absolutely priceless as she retorts "If you want more you can buy a CD for £3"!! Oh yes. Go girl! An entrepreneur in the making, without doubt.