It was an amazing free gig at the Purple Turtle on the 10th February with three young bands showing they all have bright futures. Top talent spotting from Heavy Pop!

The Certs

It was another very solid performance and more hearts and minds were most definitely won over by the end of it. We can’t wait for the recorded versions of their newer tracks, ‘Scenario’ and ‘Repetition’ to get a release.

The Dazed Minded

There is only one track on release so far, the very catchy ‘Oh Boy’, but there is plenty more where that came from on the basis of this gig. Catch them at Reading’s very own ‘Are You Listening?’ Festival where they have just been announced as part of the line-up. They themselves suggest garage rock and indie-sleaze are their key references and drummer Hannah Bowles certainly gives off strong Meg White vibes with some quality drumming. One track mid-set slows things down considerably and suggests they have more strings to their bow. Their set is linked below on Purple Turtle TV.

Baby Said

I had high expectations based on all I had heard so far – and they did not disappoint. It is mind-blowing how musically and technically accomplished they already are, almost like an AC/DC level of rock band whose souls have been reincarnated into 20 and 18 year old sisters.

Jess does vocals and bass guitar (also, she is the owner of one of the most awesome bass guitars I have ever seen), Veronica is lead guitar and vocals. Given that this was only the second time their new drummer, Kira, and rhythm guitarist Alfie had played live with them, it is staggering to think how much better they might yet get collectively with more time and understanding.

Song after song unleashes classic riff after classic riff. These girls are learned students of classic rock, but this is not a mere tribute in masquerade. These songs are very much their own. At times, Jess drops to her knees whilst playing or leans in back-to-back with her sister. These, and other moves, could look enormously clichéd, however each feels earnest, genuine and in the moment. They look like they are enjoying themselves, and the music shines out because of it. If there is one slight weakness it is that the vocals don’t fizz tonight in quite the same way the guitar playing does (not that they are in anyway bad). Time is on their side though and I suspect they will continue to improve in all departments.

Of tonight’s tracks ‘123’ was a favourite, ‘Dead To Me,’ ‘Mean Girlz’ and ‘Mouth Shut’ were all great as well. ‘Burn’ was the only unreleased track to get an airing, a slightly slower tempo number. Their complete album is out on the 2nd March called BS. Given the amount of tracks they have already released, there will be few  surprises but it will be well worth a listen. Seek them out wherever they are playing.

Exclusive Interview: Baby Said

Introducing The Certs

Exclusive Interview: The Certs