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A library isn't the most obvious place for a gig, but when you take in to account this afternoons three acts – considerate, hushed vocals, and with a literate style that suggest extensive book collections, it sort of makes sense.
This is an mid-afternoon show in a library, there is not the usual lukewarm, watered down, gnats piss that usually passes for beer. Instead there is a choice between red and white wine, which requires a 'donation' as a way to get around licensing issues, I presume. To compliment this there is a selection of cakes on offer. Bunting has been out up that add to the whole 'school fete vibe' as the crowd sits on chairs or the floor looking on at the modest stage area.
First up is a local chap who goes under the moniker MIDSR. Playing acoustic guitar to an accompaniment of backing tracks and loop on a laptop, the songs are a pleasant mix of low key indie and warm electronica. He also has some pretty nifty interactive visuals, which involve a wii remote being passed around the audience and when it is shaken the visuals change.
The second band have travelled all of the way from Bury to treat us to some music this afternoon. Alloy Ark are a young duo, with a stripped down drums, piano, and vocals vibe going on. The rather dainty singer is sat crossed legged at her piano as she purrs out cute tales, that are flavoured with a Feist and Fiona apple vibe.
Finally, it is time for We Show Up On Radar, who consist of Andy Wright (who can also be found in Swimming) and assorted friends giving him a helping hand. We Show Up On Radar play a fine set of gorgeous electronic folk-pop, that is tinged with the sort of melancholy that only a mix of low-key sound effects, gently picked acoustic guitars and shy vocals can generate. And it seems to have an effect over the audience as they sit their giving their full attention to the music. WSUOR's set is also spliced with some good natured humour, including some banter regarding the soundtracking of an AOL advert.
With cakes, a raffle, and a room decked out in bunting, this may have not been the most obvious place for a gig, but that is what made today feel a little bit special.
We Show Up On Radar performed at Nottingham Central Library on Saturday 8th August 2009. Their new single Mountain Top/Spider On A Thread is out now on Hello Thor Records. It is available on Limited Edition pink vinyl 7”. Go to www.hellothor.com for details on how to buy it.
MIDSR website
Alloy Ark website
We Show Up On Radar website
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