Once upon a time there was a band with a funny name; a Nottingham based post-punk band called Clarky Cat.

The band consisted of a bassist, a drummer and two guitar playing vocalists. All was well until one day an evil witch cast her spell over the band brainwashing the drummer to leave for university in a far away land. The remaining band members searched long and hard for another percussionist with no prevail. Was this the end of Clarky Cat?

Since former drummer, Daniel Jackson left Clarky Cat earlier this year the band has had a significant style reformation. I went to see their first (reformed) gig last month where they headlined at Junktion Seven. I arrived with a some what sceptical mind, not really knowing what to expect from a band with no drummer. Since Daniels departure they have replaced their live percussionist entirely! The band now uses a digital drum machine operated by Gemma Jewel-Kirby. Clarky Cat’s sound is now a fantastic electronic variety from breaks to indie and even drum and bass (still with post punk influences).

I caught up with Arne Blackman after the show.

How are you and the band?
As far as the new band and our sound goes we still have a few rough edges because we haven’t played together for too long, but we like the music we play and so do our friends which is still our primary aim at the moment.

The obvious question, who are your influences?
Too many to name really, a lot of bands like Joy Division and Gang of Four. Also more electronic stuff like Cut Copy, LCD Soundsystem, The Juan Maclean and the like. Not forgetting of course any good break/electro/drum and bass nonsense.

Why did you settle with a drum machine?
The main reason was that after Dan left we couldn’t find anywhere to practice which would fit a drum kit, also it was a lot easier to transport and practise but because we wanted to a more electronic feel anyway we thought it was the best option.

More gigs?
We have a gig lined up at Junktion 7 on the 5th of October, then the following Monday (10th) at the social where we will play second out of three and the possibility of playing at Cabaret at the end of October but that’s still unconfirmed.

The question is; does Clarky Cat’s new style work? The answer simply is; yes! Their unique sound is delightful, crazy and most of all, fun.

www.clarkycat.tk



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