Thursday 2nd March 06 - Mr. Mojo, Arcade and Mr Big at The Mainbrace (1/2) By David Smith

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Gigs were aplenty in Hull last night. With bands performing at both The Piper and The Adelphi, I felt obliged to check out the alternative choice. Following their highly enjoyable acoustic set at The Wellington Inn in early January, I attended the Mainbrace pub on Beverley Road last night, hoping to be equally impressed with Arcade's full band showing. Unfortunately I missed The Inspired Mr Big, who apparently played no original material, but covers ranging from Free to Led Zeppelin. Not really my cup of tea, but there will no doubt have been members of the audience who enjoyed a brief journey back in time.

Arcade are still relatively unknown in Hull despite boasting an impressive gig history out of town. Because of this, I almost feel compelled to inform the public of what they're missing. The band is fairly new, and has only been around since November, yet display a fine array of song writing talent and impressive musicality. It's nice to see someone trying to be a little different.

Arcade's three piece line-up consists of an acoustic guitar, piano, and drums. The lack of bass here isn't evident as the driving left band of pianist Damien Johnson more than makes up for it. Joe Nicholson, formerly of Pave, is an accomplished performer on kit, and front man Andy Barker's voice shows good variation, coping with both up-tempo and ballads effortlessly. Arcade begin their live set with an instrumental intro track, which provides a perfect opportunity for Damien on piano to joy us with his virtuoso talent. Mixing both synth and piano, with drums gradually building up, it's a nice touch as Andy walks on stage to join them.

I applaud bands who made an effort to provide a show. The first track, Wired, is from their yet to be released debut EP, and is a real belter. Money, the second song, is available online on their myspace website, and combines a Franz Ferdinand-esque drum pattern with a Scissor Sisters style (try saying that when you're drunk) melody.

It's a definite sing-along anthem for the coming months. Arcade's fine set of slower songs mixes the set up well, with the beautifully constructed Castles of Glass being a particular favourite. If you heard this on the radio it wouldn't feel out of place. The Sesh is in for a real treat on March 14th - just because you haven't heard of these guys before, doesn't mean you won't have in a month's time. Lined up to play The Cavern, Sheffield Leadmill, and Manchester Night and Day, and having already performed at Leeds Cockpit, Hull promoters will soon be fighting to get them on before the nation gets there first.

Maybe I'm getting a little carried away, but I really do like these guys. I'd be surprised if any of the big-boy local bands had provided such a varied and talented set in such a short space of time.

I can't be the only one impressed. Upon seeing them at the Mixing Tin, Leeds College of Music offered them unlimited free recordings. According to their website, they're currently taking full advantage. Praise the Lord! For once, a local band not trying to replicate The Libertines/Strokes.

Continued.... Next Page (2/2),

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