They came, they played, they conquered.
Six simple words that summed up the guitar thrashing performance The Carnaby’s pulled off at London’s Borderline last night (March 24th). From the raw pang of strings let loose by Ben Gittins to the reverb laden riffs expelled as the boys flew into the delights of their back catalog, it soon became clear that this was more than just another rock’n’roll show.
Like any leader destined for greatness, frontman Jack Mercer effortlessly held the audience in the palm of his hand. Exuding a silent confidence accompanied by a wry smile or two, this is one performer that know how to play the cheeky chappy card to perfection. From the vocal acrobatics of their opening track through to their closing number – newly released single “Peaches & Bleach” – this was a night of pure unadulterated entertainment.
In all honesty, there was something reminiscent of an early Arctic Monkeys performance about the whole affair. It’s a powerful thing to watch, a band in their infancy about to make waves in an unprepared industry. If there had to be criticism, it would simply be the need to cut a track or two from the slightly overpowering set list, but other than that, The Carnaby’s well and truly dominated.
We all need reminders from time to time about what the music business is really missing – powerful, original and downright gritty live shows in intimate venues. These boys nailed the formula.
You can catch them live across the UK on the tour dates below and be sure to catch their latest single “Peaches & Bleach” whilst you’re at it!
