The Ramblers, Underdosed, Valentone.

Esquires Bedford Lev 1 9th November 2006.

Tonight showcase Thursday is presented in conjunction with Bedford Metal, three bands at varying stages of their musical development.

Headlining and creating a raucous 'hooley', and playing just for the 'craic' are irrepressible young scallys called THE RAMBLERS, who impressed me so much when they played here in June. Playing with a fine arrogant swagger, especially frontman Jack who possesses all the trademark 'Macgowan' moves and poses. But boy can he sing! Backed by his cocksure crew, The Ramblers are firm handed, to be sure! A selection of self penned songs blend very nicely with a cover or two. Most notably, a rock-a-billy version of old sixties classic 'Hippy Hippy Shake', and of course an airing for their very own 'Down The Pub', which much like the rest of the set is embraced by their collection of fans who enthusiastically wave their hands en masse throughout.

Support comes from firstly a young band from Maulden/Flitwick called UNDERDOSED who comprise Thom Hayden (guitar/vocals), Min Goo Lee (bass) and Jonathan Brook (drums). The band only formed a couple of months ago and tonight is only the second time they have played in front of an audience. Not surprisingly, they are very nervous, the young lads gave it a real go, playing predominantly a collection of covers, including 'All the Small Things' and an interesting version of 'Creep', their rather funky intro and the bluesy outro was a fine idea.

Following on were VALENTONE, who make a good start with 'Paranoid'. Employing twin vocalists Dan and Joel, who alternate lead responsibilities throughout the set, they are ably backed up by Matt (bass) and Paul (drums). The pace slackens slightly with 'Hawaii' (was it a coincidence that Paul was sporting a Hawaii Island t-shirt?).
The bands new composition, 'Four Times The Man', is performed confidently and with assurance, but the Valentones stand out song is 'No More' which shares with the following song 'Break Into You' a penchant for all things grunge.