Los Campesinos!

Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne on Tue 27th Oct 2009

Los Campesinos, the 7-piece indie rock band from Cardiff, certainly don't do things by half measures. Not only does the band struggle to fit on a stage, but they are definitely one of the most productive bands around at the moment.

Having only formed nearly four years ago, in 2006, whilst at university in the same city, the band are set to release their third album, titled 'Romance is Boring', in February 2010.

Since their formation, the band have almost doubled in size from a 4-piece, and after being signed to the Wichita record label shortly after their formation, they released several singles and EPs in 2007, followed by two full length albums in 2008.

Their debut album, 'Hold on Now, Youngster... and their follow up, 'We are Beautiful, We are Doomed, were both greatly received, and along with their now infamous energetic live shows, BBC airplay soon followed, and support slots to the likes of Broken Social Scene.

Originally, the band could be described as 'post-rock', but with their latest stuff, a definite transition into a more subtle style of indie rock is evident, especially on their latest album, for which the latest UK tour is in support of.

Having not seen the band live previously, the reviews I had previously certainly set the band up for a fall, having been all good reports. However, their performance certainly didn't disappoint.

Taking the opportunity to road-test a lot of new material before its official release, songs from the latest offering such as 'The Sea is a Good Place to Think of the Future' and forthcoming single 'There are Listed Buildings, definitely impressed.

One thing that I've always liked about the band is the construction of their music, with layers of guitars all playing different sections, over a simple beat. It's simple yet effective, and combined with the fantastic vocals of 'Gareth Campesinos', they definitely having a winning formula.

Towards the back end of their set, the band treated their sizeable audience to a selection of material from their previous albums, which went down very well with the crowd.

' 'Death to Los Campesinos! and 'My Year in Lists', were definite highlights, but my personal favourite, and live favourite for many judging by the reaction it was given was 'You! Me! Dancing!'.

Following the band's set; I was left wondering why exactly the band hasn't really been given the exposure, and gained the popularity that they deserve.

There's definite potential with Los Campesinos, even though they've already released three albums, there's definite room for improvement, and they have plenty of time, and their work ethic, to make the jump to the next level.

Live however, they really come into their own. Suitably energetic, and constant interaction, combined with their fantastic songs, really make for a great live show. A definite must see.

article by: Anthony Hetherington

published: 02/11/2009 12:42



FUTURE GIGS


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