The Sunshine Underground

I admit I hadn’t heard much of The Sunshine Underground when I first saw them live but I am so glad I made the leap of faith to go and see them. The band spawned from Telford and Shrewsbury originally however honed-in on their skills and sound in Leeds and have played alongside the likes of the Klaxons and New Young Pony Club. The vocals have that northern twang of familiarity to them, reminiscent of The Courteeners, but more subtle, the rise and falls, how he holds his voice up for taking, begging to be copied.

Put You In Your Place came on with a teasingly long introduction, it would keep building up only to return to that same rhythm, the scratchy guitar, the funky bass and the undeniably indie-sounding drum, with the kick drum giving the audience around me something to clap to, and clap they did. The band genesis has seen a more dancey, electronic feel to their later stuff I think it works really well, it’s allowed them to explore new territory and highlights the versatility of the band. The songs had a self-sustaining energy of their own as if the sound would continue even if no one was there.

I reckon for the Leeds leg of their farewell tour they could have sold out a bigger ‎venue. Sunshine Underground as always delivered a confident good live ‎performance and looked like they enjoyed performing. I like Sunshine Underground ‎and seen them several times but I did find myself a little underwhelmed on this ‎occasion. I am just not sure they have the catalogue of songs for me personally ‎these days and perhaps this is why they have decided to call it a day. This is just my ‎personal opinion though, they mixed the tunes up nicely and the crowd were into ‎the performance singing along and there were sporadic scenes of crowd surfing ‎and they certainly got a nice send-off finishing naturally with Put You in Your ‎Place. I’ve had many a good night seeing Sunshine Underground and wish them ‎well. ‎

Obviously i am not privy to what goes on behind the scenes in a band buti think its a tragedy that Sunshine Underground are calling it a day. This was quite possibly THE best gig ive ever seen. The band were so tight and they enjoyed it as much as the crowd. It was 90 minutes of sheer joy. I really hope they reverse their decision and carry on because they have so much more to offer. Can i just also mention the support band Heavy Jets. 4 local lads who absolutely rocked. If you get the chance go and support them. They are headed for great things. Had a chat with them. Really down to earth nice lads.

I highly recommend going to see their ACOUSTIC set! What a night! We boogied the night away and the band were full of banter. So glad we booked the tickets!