Tinker Jack, Amy and the Integrals, Lydia Maddix, David Lloyd, The Nimblewits.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 20th December 2008.

Tonight sees the much anticipated launch party of TINKER JACK's debut EP. A note of thanks must go to SWMTF who helped with the support of the record. It's very satisfying to see the progression that this band has made since their debut Esquires gig supporting Electric Soft Parade back in February 2007. Despite having some reservations about the band's name, the quality of music hooked me instantly. Although Dan has subsequently replaced Kristian, the smooth sounds of Tinker Jack reign supreme.

Beccy appears first to perform a solo song on keyboards called "Joy". A beautiful start that then sees the rest of the band join her on stage. Tinker Jack always have "The beat of my heart" and their homespun folk is the new rock'n'roll! Their icy guitar licks, especially on "Systematic", are allied to the grandiose crooning. A perfect combo I feel! The pick out song from Tinker Jack is, without doubt, "Stranger". Beccy takes on lead vocals and begins "I am a stranger most of the time/ A perfect stranger left out of line/ Stare out of windows most of the day". As it continues you can sense the isolation, taste the alienation. With "Arkansas", Dan takes the intro with a solo harmonica rendition. The delicate swish opening is a prelude to a song that brings to mind those epic 'Clint spaghetti westerns' of a bygone age. The lush male/female sparring is always a staple ingredient. A much demanded encore sees "Baby be lonely" naturally performed. The rich vocals weave a lyrical tapestry throughout.

As main support, AMY AND THE INTEGRALS are a perfect choice. So often young bands compose lyrics that have nothing to do with their, at times, humdrum lives. Bucking the trend, time after time, are this young trio. Taut feelings are described in detail as Amy, since she first performed here, has her heartfelt songwriting shining through. Her material continues to enthrall. With a hookie chorus and a constant melody, it's a precious gift to possess. A free-flowing spirited group who always get me in the 'right head space'. It's a fact that her lyrics have a lot more attitude than most of the bigger boys who turned up suited and booted in an alternative way and climb on stage in their so-called angry attire. Frankie and Ed are the perfect foil. Amy's comfort zone is always stretched by her ever expanding new material. Naturally at ease, she enquires if everyone is looking forward to the festive season. "The ruins of life" is a recent composition, while "Master of disguise" is a tribute to a real life hero. "Rainclouds" is new, new, new. "Chavs of 2023" continues to be a relaxing musical journey. An enjoyable set.

LYDIA MADDIX is new to most of us here, but her cheeky and cheery personality glows. She is ably supported by local musician, young Matthew Jarman on bass and vocals. Clad in red hat and matching dress, her spindly legs are swallowed by a large pair of trainers! Starting with "Be quiet", "Not want not" and "Get mad", it is with "Tom boy" that develops her immediate little anthem.

DAVID LLOYD is keen to "Introduce myself please". The chirpy acoustic performer is making his second visit here. At home with fellow musicians, his demeanour is once again pleasant. He tells us that he has nearly done his christmas wrapping. But hey, an acoustic performer 'rapping' - surely some mistake! The set is sweet. New song "Stand and deliver", thanks to Santa does not go wrong. The sweat splashes off David's forehead and he calms down with "Yesterday once more". Each song, penned meticulously, is etched on his face, although the not very seasonal "Seaside town" stands out. "My friends" is, tonight, David's finest moment. His cherubic face radiates as he sings "You are my sunshine".

Also appearing are Craig, Genevieve and Rich, collectively known as THE NIMBLEWITS.