Shambolics

Opening up heat three at The Gov were Irish pirate punk rockers Shambolics. The three piece played a set filled with Celtic influences and sounds reminiscent of ‘Drop Kick Murphy's’ and ‘The Pouges.’ Their great onstage banter mixed with a light-hearted nature in their playing was the perfect way to open up the night!

Naomi Keyte

When Naomi Keyte took to the stage with her band the first thing that you noticed was her amazing voice! First song ‘Water on the Road’ had some hiccups early with some out of time drumming and some awkward band communication mid song. Second song ‘Me and my mind’ was tighter but we were all still waiting to see what three guitarists on stage could deliver as it seemed odd that Naomi was using a loop pedal for rhythm parts when surrounded by guitarists. For third song ‘Dirty Dishes,’ Naomi and her drummer stayed on stage for what was the highlight of the set, unfortunately though, there was quite a bad and noticeable timing error mid song. Final song ‘Rooftop’ really showed Naomi's vocal capabilities with great use of vocal loops! With more rehearsals this band could become quite tight and will amaze!

Indiago

Five piece indie prog rockers Indiago were the next band to take to the stage and they took the night up a level with their energy and volume! First song of the set featured great vocals up front by Will and AJ which was the highlight of the set! The second tune was a heavier piece before they went into a softer starting song that had a bit of a country feel before turning into a rock anthem. The final song from the boys featured great use of effects on the guitar from James! A rocking set from the boys up the hill!

They Set Fire

They Set Fire were the next band to play The Gov but stunned onlookers when just one man with a guitar and an abundance of gadgets walked onto the stage! The sound this act created though was huge! Samples and beats mixed with guitar solos, funky riffs, a huge octave pedal and soaring vocals over the top made this act and his sound something we have never seen before in this competition! A new age sound that could be the future of music!

Awaken Cicada

Heavy riff rockers Awaken Cicada turned the tone back to heavy rock with their massive guitar and bass sound combined with huge double kick and powerful vocals! It was clear to see these guys must spend lots of time rehearsing together as they were very tight and had very complicated arrangements. It was also good to see that they obviously love playing music together! Horns up for Awaken Cicada!

Calibre

Closing out the night at The Gov were experienced rockers Calibre! Their experience showed from the outset with well written songs and great playing from all members in the band. Front man Ben has a great husky rock vocal and is very well backed by Karen on backing vocals. ‘The Battle’ was a real highlight of the set with its amazingly catchy chorus! The set was punctuated with some killer solos by Paul on lead guitar as well as some nice riffs, particularly in 'Mystery'. Rock on Calibre!