[Editor’s note: Shaun had this review in in good time, but it landed in the inbox when I was marking exams along with a ton of other stuff so I missed it! Apologies to the bands, PR and Shaun who chased me on it today! – Mosh]
Marisa and the Moths are a band enjoying a little bit of a surge in popularity at the moment, maybe because their name seems to be popping up on festival posters throughout the UK, or maybe people are just discovering how good a band they are, but judging by the packed out KKs Steelmill tonight, there are more than enough people already aware of that fact.
Tonight’s come from Black Orchid Empire, a band I have seen a couple of times and are well worth checking out with a great performance and warm up set tonight.
This band’s refusal to fit neatly into a genre is what makes their music so interesting. Their opener, “Singularity”, sets a brooding tone, and from there it’s all about the layers. “Hydrogen” stretches out into vast, Katatonia-esque territory before plunging into a breakdown that hits like a wrecking ball – a reminder that this band can go heavier than you might expect.
Their current single “Angelfire” is worth checking out, and other tracks maintain a compelling balance between power and atmosphere.
As I said, Marisa and the Moths seem to be everywhere at the moment with Marisa even lending her vocals to Sophie Lloyd on her album and a live show at the O2, a real testament to her and recognition to her powerhouse vocals.
They waste no time tonight with setting the tone, heavy riffs and great vocals, much to the crowds delight. The crowd who, by this point, have all surged to the front barrier while Marisa on her 6-string shows she can play as well as sing. There’s plenty off their recent release What Doesn’t Kill You, but they’ve not forgotten their self-titled debut with songs like “Choke” pretty much assured a place in the setlist for many tours to come.
I love seeing up and coming bands like this as there are no egos on display, just a group of people doing what they love and smiling their way through a blistering set of tunes. Basically living the dream and we all get to be a part of it. I know I have already mentioned it but those vocals… but, wow!
That latest album is one you need to check out, and I for one can’t wait for what comes next for the band. These guys are more than likely going to be in a town near you soon so go see them – you won’t regret it! [We know they’re playing Wildfire Festival soon! – Mosh]
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Photos by SRK Lens
