We see hope. Over the past year bands have emerged bringing new light to guitar music and are slowly helping to put it back on the pedestal. Is underground, alternative and indie music on the up? Maybe, just maybe!
It has seemed that in no time at all, TOY have burst on to the scene playing 7 minute long psychedelic magic that has hit the radio. They have supported The Horrors on tour, released two singles, had a residency at the Shacklewell Arms and done all sorts of filmed sessions from Topman CNTL to Maida Vale – all in about two years.
Tonight they graced the stage at a packed out XOYO and after some technical problems they burst into life with a mass of swaying hair and an incredible swirling synth led psychedelic haze. On stage they are a joy to watch and encapsulate a stunning focus as a band. Between songs there is minimal chat, as layered guitars battle with synth melodies forging their sound. The audience is treated to new material, a dark hypnotic and euphoric track that maybe an example of what we can expect from their hugely anticipated debut album.
TOY’s success does however make way for possible pitfalls that we are sure they are aware of. Bands that are given credibility from an early stage tend not to live up to the hype and it would be an abomination if TOY became crushed by the ‘hype’ hysteria that sounds so many young bands. TOY seem to take everything in their stride and have their head firmly screwed on and bound with a might mop. They are a band on the verge of greatness and it is exciting to see it unfold.
Taking to the stage before TOY were new band Savages, a woman fronted dark rock band that like their name suggests, create brutal and powerful snarling music. My Bloody Valentine sounding guitars with booming bass and drums that change from savage to beautiful using loud meets quiet to its most effective. We have our eyes on this band as their sound is quite something, they have a single due out this summer so you will be hearing more from them pretty soon.
Savages are heading the 1234 launch party tonight at Rich Mix, Bethnal Green. Get on down…
