Well, going to gigs is only one small branch of the big entertainment world, and it was only a matter of time that musical theatre shows start to spread their influence into our tiny gig venues. Tonight's gig saw two bands with aspects of their show that wouldn't be too strange in a West End theatre show.First up were Big Joan. Arriving at the venue there was a huge bin onstage. It turned out that this bin was a vital part of the percussion on stage, producing an almost tribal rhythm to go with the drums. On the other hand, having a bin as a focal point on stage, it wouldn't have been a surprise if it ended up in a STOMP type show. Once the reason behind the bin had been shown, out came the next bit of equipment, the handset of a telephone. It could be the set up for some comedy sketch show, and if the band dragged out a radio to perform with it wouldn't have been out of place. These props almost overshadowed the music, but once the initial shock of these 'instruments' were over, the music became more the focus. Readers of reviews on this website may have come across my normal irritation at female rock performers. This was where Big Joan were the surprise. In the set up, the lead singer could have performed in a dramatic way, but instead she chose the controlled root, using her energy to great effects, just like the way PJ Harvey can. So, fortunately, she wasn't as annoying to watch as some other female performers. But maybe the next time I'll watch blindfolded, just so I can imagine what props are making the sound instead. Meanwhile in The Hellset Orchestra world, everything is big. They could not even squeeze onto the tiny stage at the cellar, what with a Hammond organ at the centre of the stage. They are the perfect band for this time of year, what with the organ led creepy sound, they sounded like they were performing Rocky Horror if My Life Story were performing it. Similar to MLS, the band had a slightly geeky but highly entertaining lead singer who tended to dance like an indie Elvis. With great string arrangements and the Hammond organ, the band should be applauded for daring to take this set up out on tour. However, a bit like those 6th form arty types who always seem to be obsessed with Rocky Horror, the Hellset Orchestra maybe trying a little bit too hard. |