Last time Moose Blood headlined a show in Nottingham, it was 15 months ago at the intimate “Red Room” upstairs. Fast forward to the present and they’re one of the UK’s most talked about emerging bands. Fresh off the back of signing to Hopeless Records with a much anticipated second album due in the summer, this current sold out headline run serves to bridge the gap between records.
Joining them on this tour are two Irish acts: Greywind and The Winter Passing. The former are still firmly in “new band” territory with just a couple of singles to their name. This is also only their fifth show together. Nevertheless, tonight’s opening slot gives them the opportunity to show what the sibling duo can do. With capacity half full, the O’Sullivan’s along with their backing band quickly form their brand of stirring alt-rock to a quiet yet appreciative crowd. With vocalist Steph supplying a stunning range, it’s clear Greywind are certainly ones to watch. (3/5)
As for The Winter Passing, these shows mark the biggest they’ve played to date. Whilst they’re a familiar name to the pages of Already Heard, there is a sense of unfamiliarity to a majority of tonight’s audience. As they showcase material from last year’s ‘A Different Space of Mind,’ songs such as ‘Daisy’ and ‘Penny Chains’ warm up the crowd nicely. Whilst Rob Flynn provides amusing quips between songs, his bandmates provide a satisfactory display of jangly emo indie punk with sister Kate providing radiant vocals. On the whole, it’s a positve showing from the quintet as its clear later on leaving the venue, they’ve found new fans. (3.5/5)
When you think how far Moose Blood have come in the space of three years, it’s pretty mind-boggling. Having toured non-stop for the best part of 18 months, the Canterbury quartet have grown a seemingly large following who are more than keen to sing back songs such as ‘Pups’ and ‘Chin Up’ word for word.
Throughout there is a sense of sincerity from the quartet with a look of amazement, and rightly so as Moose Blood look like a band “living the dream” as old favourites ‘Bukowski’ and ‘Girl’ are embraced with sheer passion from all in attendance.
New single ‘Honey’ leaves a positive impression with its bouncy tempo and Eddy Brewerton’s heartfelt vocal delivery, while fellow new song ‘Glow’ is playful and boisterous. Together it’s clear ‘Blush’ has all the makings of being a worthy successor to ‘I’ll Keep You In Mind, From Time To Time’ as they embrace the bands pop sensibilities.
As ‘Gum’ rounds off the 50 minutes and allowing the packed crowd for one final glorious singalong, it’s clear Moose Blood’s sentimental “loser in love” lyrics and springy musical style has struck a nerve with many in the best possible way. As they continue on the campaign trail towards the release of ‘Blush’, it’s clear they are well on their way to the next level. It’s no surprise bigger venues are already pencilled in for the autumn. (4/5)
3.5/5
Words by Sêan Reid (@SeanReid86)
