I think you get the idea of how these articles work by now: I go to a gig; I talk about the bands; stuff not related to the bands; drinking; references, etc. And that’s exactly how the night at Retro for another R-Weekender on the 8th of April went. So, let’s get to the point – in this gig review we look at four bands: Sir Curse, Rolled Up Sleeves, Sleemo and Perfectparachutepicture. Lets get into this!
Sir Curse
When I say that Sir Cruse was a rollercoaster of genres, I really mean it, because I thought I knew what to expect, and yet, they blew me away with their blend of alt rock fused with folk-lore vibes and freakshow theatrics. And when you think that a 6-piece band all the way from Leeds can’t get any better, their unique mixture of instruments sends you into shock (hell, when the trumpet came in I instantly knew they would become a new favourite). ‘Tarot’ is a very upbeat, funky, System of a Down-inspired track that’ll get you wanting to dance (or just nodding your head in approval if you’re awkward like me). With some interesting covers thrown in the mix like Boney M.’s ‘Rasputin’ and Kate Bush’s ‘Babooshka’ (which I am ashamed to say i never heard of – something which Meg judges me for. Sorry!) and more originals, including ‘Glad I Woke Up’, Sir Curse definitely leave their mark as the first set of the night. With a goody bag instead of a tee (because how often do you see bands give out goody bags?) and a lovely chat with the members, I certainly am ready to see Sir Curse live once again!
Rolled Up Sleeves
Now the main reason I came down to this particular R-Weekender was for Rolled up Sleeves! After being followed by them on social media (since I follow Retro Bar – which you should too!), I’ve been listening to them for a few months now. And with the opportunity to see them for the first time live in Manchester, I just had to take it up! And my God, they were just as amazing as the first time I listened to their songs. ‘Over and Under’ was their first song – one I already know – and that really got the party started on their set. Other notable tracks for me personally are ‘Easy Tiger’ and, of course, their latest single ‘Calm Before You’! After a great set, some beers with the band, friendly chatter and an unexpected appearance from Olly of Bathtub, Rolled Up Sleeves are a band that I’m becoming more and more obsessed with. And here’s hoping, just like dear old Sir Curse, they decide to come back to Manchester soon (or anywhere near, either way, you’ll see me there!).
Sleemo
Sleemo come all the way from Norwich, and as our third set for the evening, pull out some absolutely beastly songs that are untamed and have such an uptempo manner that is absolutely unapologetic. And the volume! It doesn’t matter how far you are standing from the speakers (bye bye ear drums). With a very vast and diverse array of electric, brash riffs and rhythms. What else can i say with this band? They have my approval! Their first song had my curiosity, and the rest of the set got my full interest and attention. Sleemo are definitely one to look out for, especially for those of you who, like me, enjoy upping their music to something a little bit heavier. (If you want a good head bang, Sleemo are definitely for you).
Perfectparachutepicture
If you enjoyed the heaviness of Sleemo, then you’ll love this headliner! Our last band – or rather duo – of the night is Perfectparachutepciture (hence the three Ps on the Mrs. Doubtfire drum kit that me and Meg were trying to figure out the whole night). Now, I assume that singing and playing bass is already hard enough, but you really have to have patience and talent to do vocals and drumming at the same time. Those hypnotic hard hitting drums crossed with bass riffs that are bold, loud and distorted, as well as soft melodic vocals, are the core driving force of this band’s sound, tone and overall presence. Despite this being their single, I do think ‘Don’t Bow’ really stood out to me – it’s noisy, yet a track you can really get to grips with; and it really does the band justice.
Overall Thoughts of the Night
What. A. Night! Of all the times I have been Retro (which isn’t a lot), this has been the best night there! Never did I think I would come out of my comfort zone so much and get more involved with getting to know band members. This R-Weekender was definitely one to remember. Perfectparachutepicture certainly showed me what they were made of and how heavy they could get. Sleemo, Sir Curse and Rolled Up Sleeves, it was an absolute pleasure meeting you all and watching you perform, and listening to some – and I quote – “Bastard Bangers”. Because they really were!
So, looking for more gig reviews? Not to worry, I have quite a few for you! Read my past gig reviews on Retro Bar, covering headliners such as Adult DVD and The Stride. And outside of Retro, I’ve also ventured to Zombie Shack to see Maryland and Carjack Mallone, and to Bloom to see Judas Smith!
