Following a heartwarmingly fantastic July in which we were able to raise £500 for Abortion Support Network from our sold out gigs with Charmpit and ARXX, we returned to The Victoria for the first of our August live events. Hosting Manchester based Nikki & The Waves with support from Birmingham duo First Frontier and GIHE faves Panic Pocket, it may have been a hot night, but it was full of all the coolest vibes with these three wonderful bands and the lovely folk who came out to support them!
Kicking things off in the refreshingly air-conned venue, duo Sophie Peacock and Natalie Healey – aka Panic Pocket – deliver their uplifting, synth-driven indie-pop with all the twinkling charm and tongue-in-cheek wit we’ve come to know and love. With subjects ranging from gatecrashing boyfriends to the anxious British need to apologise, each shimmering offering lilts with sugar-sweet harmonies and the duo’s infectious charm, and – being treated to some new numbers that I’d not yet heard – it’s a perfectly smile-inducing way to start the evening.
Next up, Birmingham based duo First Frontier deliver their fuzzed-out garage-rock with a an immense, driving energy. As Paul’s scuzzy hooks whirr alongside Helena’s fierce, thrashing beats, they’re able to create a swirling sense of optimism with each empowering offering and their vibrant charisma, and I can’t wait to hear more.
Headlining, we’re super thankful that Nikki & The Waves have made the long, very sweaty journey from Manchester to play for us tonight! With a vibrant, retro charm and joyous energy, they create unique funk-fuelled indie-pop as each of the seven band members contribute to a shimmering musical cacophony. Oozing a blissful allure – with shades of an eclectic array of influences, from early hip-hop to Lily Allen – the set comes complete with swooping trombone solos, colourful keys, sparkling harmonies and a relatable witty lyricism; perfect for shimmying along under the air-con, and showcasing all there is to love about this truly magnificent collective.
Huge thanks to three wonderful bands who played for us on Friday and to anyone who made it out to support them! We’re back at it this coming Saturday 20th August at The Cavendish Arms w/ phenomenal Australian duo Mannequin Death Squad, with support from Maya Lakhani and brand new ‘supergroup’, Dogviolet – nab tickets here!
Words: Mari Lane / @marimindles
Photos: Paul Dawes / @paullikesrobots
Get In Her Ears 
Published by