‘I lost my way, I hope you’re happy.’
So, on the 24th November I found myself back at The Flapper, to celebrate the news that this extremely popular establishment will forever remain a pub and live music venue. After a very stressful few years, Sam Campbell-Whyte is now the proud owner, and has organised a night of music, food and drinks to commemorate this momentous occasion. For me, it was the perfect opportunity to see my dear friends Project Revise, whom I last saw before lockdown. They were here for an acoustic set that took me and other fans back to the beginning of their journey. In fine fettle, guitarist Chris and bassist Rich, both taking on vocal duties too, deliver a rollicking set while drummer Dave turned his hand to filming. Off we go with ‘Downside Up’ and I can’t help but feel all warm fuzzy inside seeing them perform after such a long time. A set full of Pop Punk steeped in the classic sounds we all know and love, the highlight for me is ‘Hold Your Ground’ featuring Jaret Reddick, joyful and impassioned. The line ‘put it down, before you regret not being around’ reminds us that we need to address our issues and work towards a resolution to avoid carrying a burden that is crushing us.
Playing an acoustic set means that there is nowhere to hide, you get the core elements on show without the additional layering and texturing. The songs are interspersed with good humour and banter, which is an ideal way to keep the band and the audience connected and energised.
We are treated to a new song ‘All On Me’ which is instantly lapped up by the crowd, there is an honesty and integrity at the heart of Project Revise that is attractive and addictive.
We go back to the first EP for ‘Every Time Breaks’ and finish with ‘Hopes And Dreams’ each song gives us a chance to relive a little and also reset our souls for the future. These guys always move forward with time, there is a notable progression in their work and with new single ‘Take The World’ out now, this is a project that we can look back on but also add to, keep on developing, creating and adapting to an ever-changing world, striving, surviving and living to fight another day.
Azra Pathan
Project Revise – The Flapper 24th November 2023