So, we meet at last, after almost two years of Twittering, I finally see those Brighton boys, Amongst Liars in the flesh, along with ‘take the bull by the horns’ promoter Andy Finlay and his wife Clo, who are the team behind Reach 360 Promotions. Sadly, our situation has not improved regarding the virus, so it was a sterling effort from all involved that they should take the risk and continue with the tour, despite the odds being stacked against them. I was very lucky to be invited along to the soundcheck and watch the boys limbering up and flexing their – ahem – muscles ahead of the show. The turnout was disappointing to say the least, but I can’t really blame people for not attending under these circumstances. It was early doors and early curfew, but I can headbang at a moment’s notice. With a storm raging outside, we welcome a mini tornado of our own with three of the UK’s finest tearing it up right here in Brum.
First up we had Call Of The Kraken a pulsating, blood pumping beast from Shropshire who swapped door duty for stage duty and what a blinding move that was! They are everything you would expect from grassroots music and more and not ones to skimp on energy and output. Their heart of a ‘Lion’ bravado is infectious and ‘Maybe One Day’ we can look up to the ‘Platinum Sky’ and enjoy the promise of ‘This Life’. Until then we soldier on with music and an attitude that is positive and refreshing and deserving of better things going forward.
Galloping along merrily they exude a passion that is matched by Just A Ride, the second band on this bill. A new name to me, I managed a brief chat with them before their set, a gallant and amiable bunch of fellas that have a sparkle about them. Singer Rod is engaging and proves that this night is indicative of where the action is. We know the effects of the virus, it has been well documented, but to witness such passion and fun at a time of great loss is exciting, admirable and shows initiative and wisdom to help us through. Their songs are relatable, like many that have emerged during lockdown, with a common purpose that we fight against subjection in all its forms, ‘No Way Out’ being a highlight, talking about crippling debt, aggravating an already lethal situation. The galvanic ‘I Wanna Know’ closes the set and cements these guys as one of the front runners in the world of emerging Rock bands. Also vying for our attention are headliners Amongst Liars, who recently won Band of the Year at Great Music Stories and who have dutifully and brazenly kicked lockdown in the shins, pulling from experiences that have shaped our lives and brought us together in a hapless yet simultaneously fortunate troop. Opening with the seismic ‘Black Days’ a song that defines our social/political climate fully and unquestionably and showcasing two new songs ‘Rain’ and ‘Money’ for those privileged to be here tonight. Their small but perfectly formed body of work also features ‘Mind’ a song that is provocative and shows us the devastation that is our mental health system. The rousing lyric ‘we won’t take this anymore’ presents a suitable and enviable mosh call, one that will in time become memorable and legendary. This tour is in anticipation of imminent EP/LP releases that will pave the way into 2022 and you can expect more from these guys. The grassroots scene is evolving for sure, there is a power surge of bands and material simmering just below the surface, but it needs to be pushed to the next level. The impetus behind wanting to be an artist and the sacrifices involved are inherent and although it’s been a tough old slog, maybe we have now turned a corner.
So, if you fancy just a ride, make sure you answer when the kraken calls at midnight, and tumble gracefully into the ‘Wolf Machine’.
Oh, and many thanks for the shout out, much appreciated!
Azra Pathan
Amongst Liars/ Just A Ride/ Call Of The Kraken- The Asylum 2, Birmingham, November 27th.