Overshine

The band given the task of opening the night in The Espy Basement were young up and coming band Overshine. An alternative rock band influenced by rock sounds of the 90’s. These guys blasted straight into their set of high energy rock tunes with a great energy and stage presence. For a band so young they had a very tight sound which was quite impressive! Drummer Michael was very impressive on the skins, holding the band together with his skills that were beyond his age. Fifth song ‘John Song’ was a highlight of the set with its bass driven groove played by Shaun, who also sung lead vocals, as well as a nice guitar solo in the middle by guitar player Judd. In the last two songs Shaun and Judd shared the singing duties, swapping regular lines. A nice way to warm up the amps from the Overshine boys!

Sonic Milf Castle

Besides having a very interesting name, Sonic Milf Castle have a very interesting sound! In first song ’Mink’ they played at a flat out pace while lead singer and guitarist Joey howled a very catchy chorus! Also catching the eye was bass player Noah’s seven string fretless bass and Pelaya, our only female drummer of the night! Both showed off their skills in the very first song by doing very tasty sounding bass and drum solos! Third song ‘Western’ featured a nice guitar solo from Joey and like the name suggests, the song had a real western feel to it. They finished with quite a long song that was like a bit of a journey but it was an enjoyable ride for the listener!

The Brinksmen

A sharply dressed five piece called The Brinksmen hit the stage next. This group are all family, and it’s easy to tell with their tight playing as a group being something that showed straight away, as well as their beautiful harmonies! Final song ‘If I Could’ was a highlight of the set with its nice guitar riff played by Jethrow on lead guitar with a nice use of effects. Two pianos on stage played by Josh and the only girl of the group Katie, made for a nice warm and full sound with regular changes of effects and styles of playing. A sharp set from The Brinksmen!

Chris Watts

Chris Watts is a singer songwriter who plays songs that you could describe as clean cut pop country tunes! Chris has a real feel for the electric guitar, playing some very nice licks whilst singing some thoughtful lyrics over the top. At times he reminds the listener of a young Keith Urban! Chris is very well backed up by his band that includes Dom on the drums who also provides some fine backing vocals, and Mark on electric bass. In third song ‘Honey’ Chris swapped the electric for a trusty acoustic that he then played some fine picking parts with in fourth song ‘Back Down.’ Chris opted to go back to the electric for the last two songs and it worked well in getting the crowd tapping their toes, especially in final song ‘Taste’ that sounded like it had influences of Johnny Diesel! A polished and laid back set from Chris Watts!

Oppression

Oppression was the loudest band of the night! Heavy heavy rock with a front man that has enough energy for the whole band! Seriously this guy was drinking out of a spray and wipe bottle... not to mention the killer red devil jacket he wore out onto stage for the bands first song. These guys walked on stage and delivered a blasting set of rock music and then walked off just as quickly to greet their new fans. A pumping set from Oppression!