Reviews

Morning Runner

Review: Pop Toys

Inside Information

First up on the night was Fleet’s rock outfit, Inside Information. Apart from their talented teenage drummer busting a gut to hold it together, this band just didn’t rock my world at all. This four piece may as well be individual members of other bands as they made no effort to connect with each other on stage whatsoever, escaping into their own trances.

Just as I started to remotely enjoy a number, it quickly transformed into a song reminiscent of a cheesy Eurovision song contest entry with far too much vocal overload and a never ending guitar solo, very School of Rock!. Sorry Inside Information, nil point!

The View on the other hand really did spring my ears - and eyes - back into action. Their anthemic first number Day of the Liar managed to entice the crowd onto the dance floor, some of which were evidently die-hard fans.

These guys have a universal appeal, a musical mixed bag of genres bouncing from Americana pop rock blues through to an uplifting folksy sound with very subtle Santana–esqe undertones. Front man Carlton looks every inch the part in his very own Romany vagabond meets preacher man chic! The View are all exceptional musicians and totally lived up to my expectations after previous glowing reports.

The View

Morning Runner have most certainly gained a racier edge since their last performance in Reading back in July. Their new material injects a new indie pop pizzazz to their set and they have gained a comfortable confidence and professionalism in their performance on the stage. I was particularly touched by the way the band still incessantly looked to serene front man Matt for encouragement, and to be greeted with reassuring nods and smiles egging them on.

The diversity of their set certainly gives them the edge over the UK’s greying Indie market and I think this approach may very well be their making. These melody makers know how to rock out in equal measures. I was crestfallen when the band finished without having played Oceans, a B-side on their previously released single The Great Escape with former labels, Faith & Hope and BMG.

Luckily I wasn’t to be disappointed as a demanding crowd resurrected the band back into action to deliver this final luscious lullaby. This band have certainly met with the true meaning of success after a UK tour with The Music and Blueskins. Keep on running boys!