Rock and Pop: Latest news > May 13
Published: 13 May 2010
by ROISIN GADELRAB
MUSICIANS love their causes don’t they? And when it comes to politics, some of our most outspoken ones just have to interfere. Yet I can’t help but feel sorry for all those figures who backed the Lib Dems and told all their followers to do the same. Judging by the comments on Twitter, Billy Bragg, Jon McClure and Dan le Sac are feeling a little bit cheated right now. Le Sac is demanding his vote back, McClure says “Nick Clegg What ya done man?” and poor old Bragg’s just opened a “kick my ass” page on Facebook. Hard times.
• I caught electro-80s duo Hurts at Koko’s NME Radar gig on Monday. You wouldn’t have a clue these guys are so young.
They managed to create incredible drama with little fuss – and just one male opera singer. Frontman Theo Hutchcraft commanded the stage with gelled hair so shiny you could see your face in it. Rumour has it he carries a little comb with him at all times so not a hair falls out of place.
After hearing it live, I’d like to recall my original review for new single Better Than Love, which has all the makings of a festival anthem.
• Die-hard AC/DC fans – did you know the band’s original singer was called Dave Evans? Not such a rock ’n’ roll name as Bonn Scott but that’s not his fault. Anyway he’s coming to Holloway’s The Gaff on May 26 – for those who need to complete their rock education.
• A little-known supergroup of sorts, The John Moore Rock and Roll Trio, have been playing a series of fortnightly retro gigs at Lower Ground Bar, 269 West End Lane.
Head there to see what became of the remnants of the Jesus and Mary Chain, Black Box Recorder, Lush and The Soledad Brothers – when they turned to old fashioned rock ’n’ roll and blues. Dates on their MySpace page myspace.com/johnmoorerockandrolltrio