Bedford Alternative Music Present: THE END OF THE WORLD. Featuring Speedshot, Filthy Visuals, Near Moments and The Kokopellies.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 21st December 2012.

Poster by Tom Rhyland

Photos (c)Bedford Alternative Music.


Well as it turns out, tonight proves not to be the end of the world despite the Mayan calendar predicting doom and devastation for the planet. With the festive season tantalisingly close at hand, Bedford Alternative Music brought us four of the most exciting Bedfordshire bands who have enhanced their reputation during 2012.
Firstly, from the south of the county, are the exotically named THE KOKOPELLIES. If every young band had their attitude to music, what a terrific scene we would have. It's so refreshing to see no angry tantrums or surly airs and graces. But hey, what a variation of styles they put before us, showcasing material from their recent and excellently produced EP "Knock Out King Ogre". They recover fantastically well from a nervous and somewhat shaky start. Having seen them in action downstairs here recently, I really felt for this six piece as I know how much better they truly are.
Perhaps the change of personnel forced upon them may have affected things. They have a temporary stand in, although as The Kokopellies acknowledge "Tom was f**king awesome". What a revelation Jotta Sponge turned out to be. For the first time Bedford Esquires was treated to the young lady with her saxophone skills. She has brought it before, but never utilised it. That changed tonight and she was brilliant.
"Wrangler" is a full on skanker and with a closing lyrical punchline that encapsulates this band's loose and carefree spirit. The vocalist proclaims that they "couldn't give a shit". The soca(ish) vibes of "Let's Dance" are so addictive that we witness a couple of moshing santas! Well it is Christmas after all.

After watching their fine performance in the bar last week, it comes as no surprise to see NEAR MOMENTS bring their pop punk tunes to the main stage. The theme of the night was impending oblivion, but frontwoman Adi is far from impressed. "So it's the end of the f**king world"; she pauses before adding "It's a bit disappointing, a bit shit really"! With perfect timing they perform "We'll Be Fine", a great post-apocalyptic composition. With it being the festive season, the band attire themselves appropriately. Most notable is Adi as her dazzling Santa costume naturally draws glances from hordes of wide-eyed, ogling teenaged boys. Again confidence plays a big part in a young band's performance. Thankfully Near Moments display so much of it. After having violin issues on a couple of previous gigs, there are no problems tonight and in keeping with the time of year, it has been lovingly decorated with tinsel. The set flourishes with this welcome variation.

After wowing Holy Moly's back in November with their memorable EP launch evening, FILTHY VISUALS return to the main stage to enhance their blossoming reputation. They open immediately with a trio of the aforementioned EP tracks. First it is the very moody "You'll Survive". Another hopeful message at an end of the world gig! Hope springs eternal, I ponder and reflect. On "Harder", pain is etched all over Stef's face as she dramatically cries out "Oh I want it all, oh I want it all". Such a thrilling band to watch and visual in the extreme. They contain an amalgamation of such contrasting rock genres. They feed off the audience superbly and devour knuckle dragging riffs as if they were tic-tacs! "Dancin' Backwards" seems to be the ultimate highlight with everyone (I know its mine). An infectiously divine song. Filthy Visuals again demonstrate so much dynamic and unfettered spirit while their stage presence is always choreographically slick and thoughtful. Make up is optional, but always fully utilised!!

After a lengthy Esquires absence, SPEEDSHOT are back. The most experienced of the bands tonight, this trio always put a lot of effort and boundless enthusiasm into their music. However, based on this show I feel that one major ingredient is sadly missing, namely fun. Enjoyment! The lack is noticeable because of the previous three incumbents. The musicianship is as faultless as ever and they now have an extensive portfolio of songs. They are prolific writers. I do feel that one composition has borrowed very heavily from Stray's "Harry Farr". I particularly enjoyed the hook heavy "Too Far Gone" which was Speedshot's highlight.

Speedshot Vid

Filthy Visuals Vid

Near Moments Vid

The Kokopellies Vid