Bristol Rough Trade 16th December 2022
BOBBY ANDERSON FROM WILDERMAN
Its been 48 hours and i’m still a little gobsmacked..
I knew that Bobby Anderson was considered Bristol music royalty. I knew of the exploits of former band Fortune Drive, who garnered a huge following back in the day, But someway, somehow I’d never seen him perform live until now.
I will never ever leave it so long again.
Stepping on to stage on his own, as other members of the band had to pull out late on due to last minute commitments, Bobby lit up the whole room by himself. I genuinely can’t remember the last time I have been so utterly awestruck by a performers voice. It was one of those moments, we’ve all had them at gigs I’m sure, when a performer begins and you are just … woah
However it wasn’t just the voice that was so endearing. Bobby could hang up the guitar tomorrow and take up a career in stand up should he so wish. Truly engaging with those in attendance, with humorous stories and anecdotes.
In some ways having the stage to himself afforded us a great chance to see Bobby in what felt like a special, intimate gig. So we are actually very grateful. And it leaves us desperate to see what the whole of the band can do as soon as possible.
ALTERMODERNS
“Altermodern” against cultural standardisation and massification, but also opposed to nationalisms and cultural relativism.
And the powerful, Braziliant duo of Ananda & Glauco are the epitome of this with their high energy, raw, garage, punk rock sound.
Punk always sounds better when it stems from a genuine and not contrived place. And that authenticity shines in the duos stage performance.
There are no markers here, no made up lines on paper, no flags, no tribal politics… just togetherness through music. The ability to harness energy and direct it outward into the crowd was brilliant to see. Transforming bodies into limb throwing machines as those in attendance bought what Altermoderns were selling.
The ability to change not only pace, but language made for a very unique offering that helps the band stand out from the cookie cutter rock duo offerings I’ve seen. The old adage of go hard or go home fits perfectly as we are blasted at speed through the set with intensity.
Highly recommend catching this band live in 23.
THE BIRDMAN CULT
Seeing Birdman Cult always feels like receiving an early Christmas present, whatever time of year.
Ripping off the wrapping paper that is a mishmash of rock, punk, post punk, alt rock, funk to unbox pure entertainment…
We’ve seen @joechattabox_eden and the gang on multiple occasions and never been disappointed.
And with the ever growing back catalogue of bangers being added to the set its a xmas party 365/24:7
On the surface we have a good time band, playful with the crowd, witty banter and totally relaxed performers. Under the hood its so much more. Ultra competent musicianship and writing allows the five piece to blend a kaleidoscope of musical genres into a single sound that is distinctly their own. Tracks such as “Snakes” and “Ferryman” edge into radio playlist territory, whilst “Janet”, “Gone to Pot” and “Let Me Out” are pure gold for live crowd singalongs.
Birdman remain one of our favs of the local scene. And coupled with @donutrecordsofficial put on some of the best local talent gigs you’ll find anywhere in the city
@bristolnomad_gigphotography
@thebristolnomad / @bristolnomad_gigphotography
Role: Photographer / Reviewer / Interviewer
Chief, the one that bugs the team for team for their reviews and images. Creator and founder of The Bristol Gig Guide. Can usually be found swamped in admin or getting cramp kneeling at the front of a gig.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Gig Reviews, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots, Videography work, Interviews and Touring
First attended gig: Republica, circa 1996.
First gig shot: Hands Off Gretel, at The Louisiana!
Dream gig: Huge metalhead and my ultimate dream gig would be shooting my heroes Slipknot at a huge stadium gig, or as festival headliners. And to experience shooting a headline tour outside the UK
