THE DEFUNCT
Cardigan Arms, Leeds, 18/07/08

Review by Daniel Heaton

“This thing never works!” Resounds the anguished laments of The Defunct’s bassist and would-be melodica player, Alex as he singularly fails to coax any discernable sound out of this rarely seen and justifiably rarely played instrument.

That’s not the only thing that doesn’t work either, as the sound man seems utterly unable, despite his best efforts to rally the mikes into any sort of working order and as a result, the vocals are all but lost behind a wall of distortion. Then the unthinkable happens. Frontman, Ben has discovered there isn’t really enough room for himself, the drum kit, and his mike stand if he assumes the rock pose. Could things be any worse?

The answer of course is yes, as the stellar performance this band pulls out clearly attests. The boys are in it to give it their all and have a ruddy good time in the process. Guitarist Luke throws out a stampy dance reminiscent of an indie Angus Young, Drummer James smashes around like a possessed monkey and Ben – sweats. A lot. It shows in the music as well, as it’s pretty near impossible to ever be bored whilst watching this band, and you’re defenceless against their pleas to ‘join us in creating excitement’. Punk rock, indie, dub, (apparently) disco all get an airing during their half hour set.

Not only this, but you could envision this band making a great album if they were to be signed, the type of record where every song is an absolute tune, as they throw out more hooks than a trout fisherman. The strains of ‘atomic youth’, ‘carnival lions’ and ‘J.U.I.C.E’ all fill you with the irrepressible urge to bounce like you’ve got a new bed. Catchy choruses, head nodding riffs cut with substantial indie choppiness are the order of the day, and, technical difficulties and meagre turnout aside, they’re there to entertain and do a damn good job.
 

Review by Daniel Heaton 08/08/2008