31st January 2020 is a date that’ll remain in the memory for a long time. At The Hope & Ruin this evening we were served good music and vibes. The best kind of union and a better reason to remember this night.
It was apt that tonight’s headliners Genn are a band with members from two countries: Malta and the UK. Post Punkers with enough energy to power several nations. Musically bouncy and groovy with a punk steeliness they are fun to watch. Vocalist Leona gave a masterclass in stagecraft and covered every inch of the stage… several times over. Latest single Duda Dance was the highlight of a strong set. Duda Dance? I did! Check them out sooner rather than later.
Hourglvss offered something different to the other bands on the bill. Beaming in from the 1970s, think danceable pop with disco dressing. Two female singers, Katie and Sophie shared vocal duties and how. Offering a respite to the riffing the crowd, they were party starters par excellence.
Run Into The Night were another band new to me. A rock centred duo with a bit of blues, smidgen of garage rock and at times a glam rock stomp too. Ones to keep an eye on.
Yur Mum played Brighton in December last year. This rock duo pummels your body with heavy drums and fat riffs. I’ve seen them twice in two months. If I saw them again next week, it wouldn’t feel too soon.
A pre 8pm start for a gig these days is a rarity and even rarer that it’s Tokyo Taboo on stage, 7:30 sharp, who headlined The Prince Albert a couple of months ago. Frontperson Dolly Daggerz is everywhere! Starting on the stage, through the audience, on a pole and at one point on the bar. Energetic doesn’t describe it. They have a modern rock sound and set highlight is Whiskey, a song personal to Dolly. New music is on the horizon with gigs later in the year. A band who excel in the live arena.
Five stars for five bands. Thanks to Beating Hearts Agency for putting this show on.
Plugged In Brighton 