HOT MOTH, FIVE KITES & YOUNG SAHARA – 7th March 2017
It’s on nights like Tuesday that I’m glad I live in Brighton. For live
music, this city offers so much every day of the week – without having
to traverse the public transport quagmire – that staying in should be
punishable by forced viewing of X-Factor repeats from 2005…
Local talent formed the three-act bill for The Prince Albert with Five
Kites opening the night. Their proficient set of assertive and
memorable alt-rock tunes received immediate crowd approval, achieving
a colossal sound that belied their status as a three-piece. Crisp,
full guitar tones and well-placed vocal harmonies fused with a
rhythm-section vigour individually reminiscent of Taylor Hawkins and
Chris Wolstenholme.
Comparisons to Biffy Clyro and Hundred Reasons wouldn’t be far off the
mark and the compelling well-paced set left this reviewer making a
mental note to keep an eye on these guys.
Young Sahara followed second. A relatively new band, we were pleased
to share the bill with such good musicians and an engaging crowd. We
hope to see you all soon!
Hot Moth headlined with their accomplished and refined alt-rock trio
who are making some recent waves around town due to their punchy,
intelligent and accessible style. A definite highlight is the ardent
vocal from bassist Matt Sparkes, whose high, strong and controlled
tone sits effortlessly above the music, itself a clean but intense
contrast of focused unison lines and intricate instrumental interplay.
Drummer Freddie Hills stays away from tired, obvious beats and Matt
Metcalfe masterfully saves his outstanding trump-card licks for the
final songs. Elements of vocal-led math-rock bring to mind bands such
as Meet Me In St. Louis and Arcane Roots.There was nothing not to like at this show: three promising bands
playing to a small but appreciative audience with even the equipment
problems that seemed to rear their gremlin-like heads at random
intervals doing nothing to mar the atmosphere. A special mention for
the sound-engineer is also in order for his great ear and quick
action. Up The Albert!
Steve Brook













