Band Of Skulls Live Review + Tom Biggs

Last night I once agian had the privilage of seeing a great band live, this time Band Of Skulls at The Fleece in Bristol.

First to take to the stage was the clearly intimidated and nervous Tom Biggs armed with only an acoustic guitar. Yet out of this normal looking guy came one of the deepest, most resonant and soulfull voices I've heard, sounding slightly put on occasionally and sometimes in need of a Soother, it was still an unusual and interesting voice to listen to and when coupled with with the heartfelt and emotive guitar made for a great support act. He was pleasantly surprising and had some good songs, especially 'Two Taps' and 'Wicked One'. Since I saw him yesterday I've been listening to his songs on Myspace and they're pretty good.I'll put the link at the bottom of this post in case you want to check them out.

Then after an age Band Of Skulls started their set. Opening with new material then really getting the gig going with their third song of 'Patterns'. They played their songs expertly and most importantly with dedication and heart; you felt that they meant what they were playing and singing. They didn't just recreate their brilliant album on stage but gave a performance where they imporvised and played the songs to the best that they could be and much rockier than when it's recorded.

Also Russell Marsden's performance was, for lack of a more powerful word, incredible. He played his numerous guitars astoundingly and seemed to be playing what would usually take at least two people to perform as he played both individual notes as well as chords and the amazing bluesy riffs that define their songs. He was also simultaneously singing, giving an energetic performance and manipulating the music with the various effects pedals; I'm not certain that he's human. His imporvised solos were incredible and showed how well the band works as they all kept time with each other and allowed each other to have fun and do what they wanted. Emma Richardson sounded even better live and played brilliantly as did Matt Hayward.

Playing a mix of well known old songs which were extremely well recieved and promising new material they did a great gig and I would definetly recommend them to anyone how is a fan of rock and intricate guitar so please check them out, I've put their most successful single 'I Know What I Am' below.  Highlights of their set were 'Patterns', 'Hollywood Bowl', 'Death By Diamonds and Pearls' and 'Impossible' which they ended with on an soaring high. A great gig!

http://www.myspace.com/tomtaylorbiggs