The Empty Page are an indie rock band with a 90s grunge/alt rock feel. They remind me of The Breeders or, to a lesser extent Veruca Salt, although I feel I'm missing a major influence, The singer, Kel, has a strong set of lungs which for some reason reminds me of a punk Mel C. The guitarist, Giz, has some striking leads reminiscent of Muse or Queen. One track has a Smashing Pumpkins '1979' feel but is a little too simplistic. Some of the material is better than others. The heavier material generally seems weaker, and they are better when leaning into their more melodic side, playing to both Giz and Kel's strengths.
Desperate Journalist open with 'Consolation Prize'. The jangling guitars in the verse have a sunny shoegaze quality and are combined with a driving chorus. 'Why Are You So Boring?' has some 'She Sells Sanctuary' style guitars but is generally indie pop in the vein of Sleeper or Echobelly (but is probably better than either of those bands). Jo Bevan's voice is great, like a cross between Björk and Sonya from Echobelly. Desperate Journalist often provide a glimpse of what Björk's career could have been if she'd have stuck to the guitar led material rather than going electronic and experimental. The sound is absolutely fantastic. Everything sounds crystal clear, from the vocals to the solid basslines to the stellar, melodic guitar leads. Jo is fairly static but it doesn't really matter because that voice just cuts through everything. It has a real presence and is the undoubted star of the show. 'Silent' slows it down with a low slung bass sound for a darker feel. 'Cedars' is excellent and boasts a terrific chorus which most Britpop bands would have killed for. The guitar solo is excellent too. 'Fault' has a neat '80s new wave bassline (specifically Duran Duran). 'Underwater's electronics add a different texture and provide the most Björk-like moment of the evening. It is compelling. 'Be Kind's Cure-esque guitars are about as conventional indie rock as they get but it's wrapped up with another big chorus. Both 'Heartbeats' and 'Remainder's Johnny Marr style guitar lines are a delight. 'Satellite' closes the show with another towering chorus. Desperate Journalist are a band which get better every time I see them.
Desperate Journalist ****
The Empty Page ***
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