The Swamis, Pearl Handled Revolver, The Escape, Daniela.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 19th December 2008.

THE SWAMIS are a unique band. A trio who, locally, are so far apart from the pack that any attempt I feel to describe or categorise them is an exercise in total futility. With a drummer who either blends in to the background or is totally dynamic when the situation arises, front duo Dan and Paul are the focal point of many a gig-goers attention. Their mock guitar fight at the conclusion of the set matches their creative idiosyncrasy. Dreamy delicate introspection one minute is rapidly replaced at a stroke by songs that explode into such a density of brutal velocity. Their nut crunching hooks vie for attention amongst the top-drawer lyrics. Judging by the performance tonight, it's fair to describe that these post-modern bohemians are still indeed top of their game.

Once again, supporting The Swamis are PEARL HANDLED REVOLVER. Their epic behemoth of blues fuelled guitar riffs mixes perfectly with organ and percussion instruments freely interspersed throughout. Drummer Fergus is at consumate ease with his role as the set runs smoothly. Songs of note are , firstly, "Rainbow" which is a hushed and spaced out sexualized psychedelic offering that truly excites. This trippy brooding blues mash-up wafts around the room in much the same way as a substance that may or may not be it's creative influence! Also "Head" is searingly acid fried. It's a finely balanced stomper perfectly enhanced by the sounds of the mean scuzzy organ.

A young local band that always gives me great delight in seeing are THE ESCAPE. Tonight, they firmly concentrate on their own material which is always strong. Unfortunately, I feel they are not given too much respect by the crowd who have plainly come to see the two following bands. A different wavelength methinks! The great thing about this young trio is that they don't leap about all over the stage. They just get up, do their thing and get off. They are talented young musicians and the music matters. Flexible in their repertoire, it will be interesting to see how The Escape develop during 2009.

It's clear from her performance tonight that young alternative diva DANIELA is in awe of Lily 'n Kate, but her sweet and character filled voice has an uncanny ability to remind those present that it's not just a slavish imitation. Apart from a sickly ill-advised cover of Debbie's "Heart of glass", her set is quirkily poppy and dark in equal measure. Supported by 'Ed Integral' who backs her on guitar, it's a jolly opening with "Hot and cold". Her only flaw seems to be the lack of mobility on stage, which sees Daniela's hands clasped permanently to the mic stand. However, her voice is superb, especially the amazing song sung completely in Italian. She tells us it is the first time that she has attempted it. Daniela, it was well worth the risk.