An early start plus a late shift at work means I only catch a couple of songs from Legss. The first full song I catch sees the drummer singing and is captivating slacker rock à la Pavement which creeps up on you. Initially, it seems a bit pedestrian but I find myself being drawn in as it has a surprising amount of depth. The final track with the regular singer taking lead vocals isn't quite as compelling but is still good and comes across like a much noisier Arab Strap, and again it is a grower. Very intriguing.
Heavy Lungs open with 'Ballerina', the bubbling bass carrying it along at an intense pace whilst Danny's aggressive, confrontational vocals give it a visceral, dangerous edge. 'Cushion The Blow' is a vital slice of hardcore punk. Danny spends most of the time in the crowd for the thrilling post-punk throb of 'All Gas No Brakes'. With his shaved head and striped shirt, Danny has the look of a convict but there is still something very performative about him. Imagine Morrissey if he was in 'Romper Stomper'. 'Stutter' is like an obtuse, aggro noise rock take on 90s Blur. Both 'Get Out' and Yes Chef' are fast and furious bursts of punk rock. The bass groove of the spiky yet danceable 'Mr. Famous' is excellent. 'Caviar' manages to be quirky yet in your face. The rhythm section is fantastic throughout. Danny dances appropriately for the heavy 'Dancing Man' although his vocals are a bit ragged. The hardcore punk of 'Descend' incites some slam dancing amongst the crowd. 'Life's A Buffet' is Stooges garage rock pushed to its very limit. '(A Bit Of A) Birthday' closes the set in a blistering fashion. The crowd all sit with Danny before jumping up and bouncing around to the climactic chorus. Post-punk seems to be in pretty rude health at the moment and Heavy Lungs are another post-punk act who are absolutely incendiary live. Plus, it is all finished by 9pm which is a welcome bonus.
Heavy Lungs ****
Legss ****
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