The Cribs

In the line of duty, I see many live shows. Some have a polished sheen, an unmistakable gloss that screams professionalism, and there are others that come across as a little more chaotic. Tonight's show most certainly falls into the latter category. This is by no means a bad thing, and the DIY, old school feel of the gig suits The Cribs well, and it all comes together in a show that, if nothing else, is full to bursting with all of the energy the band, and the crowd, could muster.


Hitting the stage like a train just after nine, the brothers Jarman launch straight into 'MTV' and the mayhem starts. The Cornerhouse rarely uses a crowd barrier, but tonight it is essential, and the band seem to be trying to ensure that that security earn their money, right from the very beginning. The madness continues into signature track 'Hey Scenesters', which is easily the stand out track of the night. The fact that the band throws it into the mix so early is evidence of the confidence that is flowing through them right now. Most bands would close a show with a track of that standard, but to The Cribs, it is throwaway, and it does them no harm to tear through it and get it out of the way.

The rest of the set continues in a similar vein, with the crowd screaming every word of just about every song. 'Our Bovine Public' and 'I'm Alright Me provide further highlights, and further excuse for the seemingly endless stream of bodies coming over the barrier. If the venue had adopted the policy of ejecting crowd surfers, the band would have been playing to an empty room by the end of the set.



One thing this band do have, which sets them apart from much of the shoegazing, self-deprecating indie-fodder of late, is the attitude. Ryan Jarman knows that they've got it, and milks it at every opportunity. Some might call it arrogance, others would say it was confidence, but whatever it is, great rock n roll needs it, and these lads have it in abundance.

It must be said that The Cribs do nothing groundbreaking musically. Borrowing heavily from the likes of The Libertines and The Strokes, this is a band that wears their influences for all to see. Their lack of originality, however, is more than made up for by their energy on stage, and the passion in their music. I have seen few bands who put so much into a live show, and by the time they leave the stage, after an impressive eighteen song set, it is clear they really couldn't have given much more.


It is clear to see why The Cribs inspire such devotion in their fans. On this performance I can think of no better soundtrack to a night of jumping around like a fool and getting pissed with your mates. In all honesty, I think that's all that the band wants as well. They are a superb feel good band, and are well worth checking out live, if you get the chance.

FUTURE GIGS