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There’s normally a great dollop of fun to be had when talented bands are on the weekend’s agenda. When it all comes together in one place it’s even better!
Fists and their record label Hello Thor threw a little party at Rescue Rooms to celebrate the release of their EP ‘Olympic Hits’ and Escapologists, Pilgrim Fathers and Swimming were all invited.
Unfortunately I did miss Escapologists, but luckily I got there just in time for the loud and raucous Pilgrim Fathers. The presence of front man Shelf impressively draws you to the band with his big hand movements and studded metal cuffs, which compliments the bands big sonic wall of noise. Their songs are musical journeys that take you from moments of claustrophobic chaos driven by Led Zeppelin inspired riffs to mellow rock, with hints of Prog and Psychedelica.
The samplers give a slightly eerie tone that takes you back to the dark corners of 70s metal, but it’s the stomping drums and driving guitar riffage that gives the darker moments colour. The experimental rockers use their multi-dimensional sound to great effect and certainly know how to warm a crowd up.
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| Swimming at the Fists EP Launch - Photo by Rose Walsh |
Swimming instantly created a buzz, with lots of friendly Nottingham faces clambering to the front. The band has maintained the tag of being one of the best Nottingham bands we have, and it’s no surprise when they consistently deliver the goods. Their sumptuous sound made up of binaural layers is a combination of euphoric experimentation, whillst skilfully still managing to accessible with uplifting pop elements.
The whirling guitars contort through enthralling melodies that seem to increase the happy hormone levels and John Sampson's gentle and airy vocals adds to this dream like state. Panthalassa is a live highlight encompassing the epitome of their craft, but it’s this combination of old favourites and newer gems like Fire At Blue Point that makes Swimming a band that Nottingham should be proud of.
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| Fists at the Fists EP Launch - Photo by Kristi Genovese |
Finally, like waiting for the birthday girl who arrives fashionably late, Fists take to the stage after what has already been a fun fuelled evening that has showcased some of the best music talent in the city. Known best for their kaleidoscopic mish-mashing of genres, they mix beatific harmonies with a subtle dose of eccentricity.
The drummer’s effortless power to lay down simple yet harrowing beats adds to the lo-fi energy that helps creates their DIY blend. This is summed up perfectly in songs like Squirl Squeak; the two lead vocals of Pete Conway and Angi Fletcher compliment each other in an organic and delectable way, which fits in perfectly with the jangly guitar and jubilant keys.
They might take their music seriously though their uniqueness brings out the fun, which has seen them being played on 6music and why so many people wanted to be there for the EP launch. The night definitely ticked all the boxes and it was great to see so many Nottingham folk there to support their local bands.
Fists EP Launch with Swimming, Pilgrim Fathers, and Escapologists was at the Rescue Rooms on Friday 9 April 2010.
Fists new EP 'Olympic Hits' is out now on Hello Thor records.
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