My Pet Minotaur
The first band, imaginatively called My Pet Minotaur, were instrumental but far from delicate. Ranging from ambient to frantic, they were at their best by far when down tempo - sounding like Sigur Ros but without the time for the slow-building intros. Heavy metal fans in need of chill-out music should look no further. Clickshaft The next band, Clickshaft, had been described to me as a rock-punk five-piece with a trombonist - so naturally I thought they'd be a shambolic mess. However, I was surprised to hear they sounded great: funky, energetic and tight, with occasional bizarre lyrics and hoarse vocals from the trombonist. Not ska, not funk, not jazz and not entirely rock, their sound is hard to pin down, but well worth tracking down. Their set was the most energetic and fun of the night, and stunts like pulling a gig-goer up on stage to become their triangle player endeared them to fans. Kunk The third and final band was Kunk, a Norwich-based pop-tinged rock band who are doing well and getting some airplay in the US. Their set was energetic and catchy, with a sound reminiscent of poppier rockers like the Foo Fighters. The music is fun but punchy, and I think they are one of a handful of Norwich contenders set for great things. The turnout was fantastic, especially considering the lack of promotion, and the venue was packed by the second set. The atmosphere at a small gig like this is hard to beat. The show was organised by the musicians themselves, which is an impressive way to get your music heard. Small venues like the Ferry Boat are vital for local bands to put on nights like this cheaply, and it seems to have fostered a burgeoning amateur band scene in the city. My Pet Minotaur, Clickshaft and Kunk played at the Ferry Boat Inn, Norwich, on Thursday 9 March 2006. | 
