Sky Larkin

Kicking off proceedings at The Cribs first headline show off the back of recent European dates with Franz Ferdinand were Wichita Recording newbies Sky Larkin. Hailing from Leeds, Sky Larkin consists of two guys and one girl who produce harmless Indie-pop.

Granted, they delivered a sufficient set however it in no way did it hold your ears captive. Sky Larkin’s music was definitely likeable but just didn’t make a stronger impression than that. Either inexperience with larger crowds prevented them from giving the audience a bit more or they just didn’t have anything else to give, the jury’s still out on this one.

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Los Campesinos!

Los Campesinos! tread a fine line. Their brash vocals and cantankerous music style can transcend from refreshing and quirky to quite frankly very annoying.

There were times during the first half of the main support slot where lead vocalist Gareth’s stage moves and careless shouting of lyrics resembled that of a spoilt toddler having a tantrum, consequently alienating audience members who were not affirmed fans of the band.

The energy of this buoyant 7-piece is an undeniable force, which is why they can become overwhelming and easily lose an audiences focus easily if they let their own focus slip. Vocal emancipation eventually came in this set with an impeccable performance of ‘We Are Beautiful, We Are Doomed’ and further redemption followed with a commendable performance of ‘You, Me, Dancing’.

Winding things up with an effervescent version of ‘Sweet Dreams, Sweet Cheeks’ rescued a set that could’ve easily gone from bad to worse. Thankfully, Los Campesinos! regained control and went on to give what was a proficient set that properly kick started the night.

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The Cribs

The Cribs live reputation precedes them where ever they go, and for damn good reason too. Tonight an ecstatic Birmingham crowd witnessed what was a confident, virtuous and ruthlessly executed set weaving it’s way around their catalogue from latest single ‘We Share The Same Skies’ all the way back to esteemed fan’s favourite ‘Another Number’ from their 2004 self-titled debut. Ryan Jarman and honorary 4th Jarman brother/Ex-Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr are well known for their immaculate guitar work. With both on brilliant form and the other brothers following suit it came as no surprise that song after song was of an outstanding standard.

An potent deliverance of Be Safe, featuring striking visuals of featured vocalist Sonic Youth guitarist Lee Ronadlo projected onto the rear wall, amongst a dazzling performances of Ignore The Ignorant album tracks City Of Bugs and Save Your Secrets really put The Cribs in a league of their own. Exceptional.

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