14th August 05 - Frank's Right Hand Trouser, Shindigg, Sal Paradise and The Vultures at the Adelphi contd By Anthony Baine.

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The first track teased with its epic intro and in terms of musicianship they may be the most professional band in Hull. They've survived a few line-up changes to become tighter than ever and their grungey, guitar-heavy rock sound sounds fresh and energetic. Much has been made of their adventurous time signatures and they sound more natural than ever with the new rhythm section now firmly in place, the drummer in particular is an absolute powerhouse.

I'm afraid I didn't catch the titles of any of the songs but the stand-out for me was a jumpy pop-metal track which had a gear-shifting chorus and it sounded like The La's being covered by Smashing Pumpkins. The onstage characteristics of the band couldn't be more different. The singer clearly loves being in front of people and has great stage presence under that hat, the other guitarist meanwhile, rarely looks up or moves. The new bass player plays a six-string bass and whilst his fingers are going here there and everywhere, his head will tilt ceiling-wards, and you get the impression he's maybe thinking about what he's going to have for his tea.

A bit of a debate went on when they realised that they'd over run their allotted time, and their last song seemed a bit rushed, a shame really because I had enjoyed what I'd seen. Shindigg have been around for a good while now and it really is bizarre that they're still playing Hull's smaller venues. Hopefully once they start looking further afield they will have more success. This band know what they're doing. And finally we have the brilliantly named Frank's Right Hand Trouser. A band who seem to have the same trouble as Sal Paradise.

I never seem to see their name about and they too would not appeal to the majority of Hull's music fans. They are however, another truly original band and their quirky melodic rock sound should be winning them more plaudits than perhaps it is. The first song here was the highlight for me with its chugging riff and stop-start melody. This was the first time I'd ever seen them and I would like to know more about them (do they have a CD out?) as I was very impressed.

There was a great deal of banter on stage as they realised they were pressed for time and had to belt through their set seemingly faster than usual. It was still excellent stuff though. It is difficult to describe their sound if you haven't heard it already (A cross between Nirvana and The Fall maybe?) but rest assured they can all handle their instruments superbly. They're also very friendly guys both onstage and off (in fact I seem to remember buying one of them a pint after the gig although I could be mistaken) and yet again they really should be playing to bigger crowds.

So come on Hull, if the music scene here is to be as prosperous as people are predicting it's about time you true music fans get up and show some enthusiasm for our genuinely innovative local bands. You will find it such a rewarding experience. Certainly much more satisfying than sitting at home, scratching your arse and listening to The Libertines.

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