DRINKS is the brainchild of Tim Presley and Cate Le Bon, the album, Hermits On Holiday, is a master class in lo-fi punk goodness with beautiful vocals and guitar parts, but how would that translate on stage?
Well it translates the same way as the album; minimum of fuss and spectacle, that’s not to say it isn’t good, it is, but for anyone expecting theatrics or spectacles this is not the show.
Playing into songs and rarely interacting with the audience, apart from beckoning a timid crowd to stand nearer the stage – in Glasgow no less!!! – this is a gig of mixed fortunes.
The songs themselves are brilliant live, the guitar parts of ‘Tim, Do I Like That Dog’ (personal favourite of mine) don’t match the record, but so what? When you are aiming for a no frills, lo-fi vibe it’s all about the “now” rather than the record.
‘Focus On The Street’ is another set highlight with the alternating vocals being very effective.
This gig goes by in a bit of a blur, one song after another in a very maintained way, professional some would say.
Some guitar sections sound a bit off and the vocals could have been a tad clearer, but I digress, they are a very tight ensemble live.
The rhythm section is brilliant and the keys are a standout in this gig.
The album is played in its entirety, nothing more nothing less and no covers or solo stuff.
If you haven’t heard the album, I suggest you rectify that immediately; I didn’t really know what to expect from DRINKS live so had no pre-conceived notions; it was a good gig – that’s it.
In keeping with their no nonsense and no frills approach, I intend to do the same with this review.
Go see them when they are around and take what you want from it; also, listen to the album, it’s brilliant!
Hermits On Holiday (Album) by DRINKS
Words: Andrew Melrose
