Man Made @ The Joiners 21/3/16 (with support from Novellas)

Nile Marr (son of The Smiths legend Johnny Marr) and co have been making a name for themselves in the UK indie scene, having built quite the reputation. Supporting acts such as Badly Drawn Boy, Bright Eyes and even Jake Bugg, these boys have become known for their unique take on the genre and hard working ethos, being on their second headline tour in as many years.

Having not been back to Southampton in quite some time, it seemed appropriate for Sotonians to welcome them back at the city's most iconic venue, The Joiners.

Portsmouth boys Novellas were both the openers and main support for this very short two band bill. The three piece played a great blend of 80s rock, pop and more alternative styles. A solid set with a great mix of slow paced grooves and fast, foot tapping riffs, even throwing in some heavier sections which gave off a JAWS-like vibe. Frontman and guitarist George Mansfield's unique voice perfectly blended with the music and even busted out some top quality shuffling on stage. A fantastic set with great energy and a real feel good vibe, Novellas are definitely one to keep an eye on.

Man Made hit the stage soon after. The band wasted no time in showing Southampton what they were capable of, with a great mix of pounding basslines and soft guitars. Nile Marr proved to be a capable frontman and excellent guitar playing, having his own unique style and creating his own sound. Latest single 'Raining In My Head', went down a treat, blending a more melancholy tone while still keeping the upbeat rhythms. Man Made are very much rooted in the Manchester influences of the past, with hints of The Smiths and Stone Roses underlying much of the set while still remaining to create their own original style.

Man Made proved to be quite the band, and definitely not one to miss when they're on tour next.

Photo credit: ModernWay Photography

Black Peaks at the Talking Heads: 13/02/16 (Support from Physics House Band, Hercules Morse and Faux)

With their debut album on the horizon, Black Peaks have embarked on their first headline tour across the UK. Establishing a reputation as one of the best live acts on the scene, it was only fitting that they played Southampton's premier live venue, the Talking Heads.

Openers were local boys Faux, who played an interesting blend of indie and hard rock. Their melancholy tones were captivating and the set was tight, a solid opening despite not having a huge crowd.

Up next were Hercules Morse who brought a very different atmosphere than Faux. Heavily inspired by Queens of The Stone Age, Hercules Morse had big riffs, pounding drums and some excellent guitar solos. While being the odd band out on the bill, these boys put on a fantastic show.

The main support were the Physics House Band. Probably one of the hardest bands to describe, they are quite the experience. A prog three piece that combines heavy riffs, keyboard sections, ambient and electronic music. While lacking vocals, they make up for that with some expert and complex playing, a weird yet wonderful live show.

Now the headliners, Black Peaks. Quickly setting the tone of the set with opener 'Crooks', the band relentlessly hammered at your ear drums. Fast paced choruses, a huge sound scape and fantastic energy showed why these guys are making a name for themselves. Vocalist Will Gardner commanded the stage with purpose and an amazing vocal range rivalled by very few front men in the UK. A blistering, chaotic but utterly fantastic live band. Black Peaks are certainly one to keep an eye out for.

Credit: Amie Kingswell Photography