The Golden Lion, set in the quaint tranquillity of Todmorden has garnered a reputation as being one of the finest underground gig venues in the country and attracts the most enviable of names. Tonight there are two local bands taking to the hallowed stage to showcase that it is not just the big names who can bring a crowd.
Burnley quintet The Goa Express have become BSM favourites due to their vibrant attitude, Nuggets-worthy garage rocking tracks which blend effortlessly with the softer surf rock tones invoking the California coastline. This is well exhibited in last year’s single ‘Kiss Me’ always goes down well live and tonight is no exception, with its intensely catchy riff taking hold instantly and setting bodies moving. ‘Waka’s Eyes’ is a tribute to their manager and they play a number of new tracks which show the direction the band is looking to take, including ‘Tastes Better’ and ‘Fill It Up’.
Déjà Vega are rapidly becoming a band who need no introduction thanks to increasing airplay on BBC Introducing of late, that and their reputation for explosive live shows that see crowds jumping and cheering with glee. They open with ‘Telephone Voice’, which merges seamlessly into ‘Mr Powder’, a pacey track that has become a fan favourite due to its racing riffs and hefty beats that are underpinned by a pounding bass line. Recent single ‘Eyes of Steel’ is largely responsible for their radio play of late, which comes as no surprise given its catchy countenance and simple composition that hits all the right spots. A new track is up next and while the faithful gathered aren’t quite as dancey, it’s clear they are impressed. ‘Chasing’ is the funky, disco one with its rolling bass beats, entrancing vocals and motorik beats which all in all create a heady mixture that doesn’t fail to impress. Old faithful ‘Pentagrams’ is a welcome appearance in the set for those who have followed the band for a while and its well placed before the ever captivating ‘The Test’ takes hold, executed in almost complete darkness makes it no less effective.
Based on the quality of tonight’s performances, if you don’t yet know the names The Goa Express and Déjà Vega – you soon will.
