On Friday, we were back at The Shacklewell Arms in Dalston with a total dream of a line-up. Fightmilk, Bitch Hunt and Sassyhiya treated us to a joyous few hours of live music. Huge thanks to them all, and to all the lovely folk who came out to support them and fill the venue… We’re still feeling all the feels, and are extremely grateful to everyone who made it such a beautiful night.
First up, Sassyhiya offer up their uplifting, jangly post-punk. Consisting of two former members of Barry (Kathy and Helen) plus Neil and Pablo, the band’s first ever gig proves to be a great success as the crowd smile and sway along to their twinkling hooks and buoyant, quirky energy.
Having last played live at a gig for us back in October 2019, it’s such a joy to welcome Bitch Hunt back to the stage. And what a wonderful return to live music it is. Radiating a blissful, cathartic energy they fill the venue with their scuzzy punk-pop offerings covering poignant topics ranging from men taking up too much space, to reflections on being non-binary and stirring odes to loved ones no longer with us. A truly euphoric set from these First Timers Fest alumni.
Headlining the night are Bitch Hunt’s Reckless Yes label mates, and total faves, Fightmilk. The third time they’ve played for us, it’s an utter delight to finally see them perform some of the tracks from their latest album Contender live, as well as some old favourites (and a couple of surprise covers!). Blasting out their anthemic indie-pop with an endearing tongue-in-cheek wit, each offering fizzes with the band’s trademark vibrant energy and colourful charisma. From fuzzy love songs to tirades against Elon Musk and bridezillas, Fightmilk bring a refreshing honesty and gritty raw emotion to their jangling melodies and the smooth-yet-husky charm of front-person Lily’s vocals, showcasing their ability to continuously refine their sound and, in the process, consistently continue to win my heart. Plus, I don’t think I ever thought I’d be aged 35 and in a venue filled with people joyously dancing and singing along to Wheatus’ ‘Teenage Dirtbag’, but I was and it was pretty magnificent.
Huge love and thanks again to all three bands who played for us on Friday, and to everyone who came out to share the music and good vibes. We’re taking a little break next month, but will be back at the Shacklewell Arms on 6th May with the return of The Menstrual Cramps, supported by pink suits and Queen Cult – nab your tickets on DICE now.
Photos: Jon Mo / @jonmophoto
Words: Mari Lane / @marimindles
Get In Her Ears 
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