aaamusic | On 31, Mar 2011

[cincopa AYDA5jatVSJ_]

London, 23rd March

The Brighton based three piece Flashguns burst onto stage at Lexington with Come And See The Lights and, despite their young looks, any doubt about their ability as musician is quickly dispelled as they tear up the stage, with a great energy which matches their impressive musicianship.

Lead singer Sam Johnston knows how to get the crowd entertainment: he has a wonderful command of the stage and, despite his small frame, he doesn’t lack of swagger and moves.

The setlist comprises the newly released Passions Of A Different Kind, No Point Hanging Around (my personal highlight of the night) and closes the set what appears to be an old fan favourite – St. George, which sounds like super-speed punk ditty. Johnston’s lyrics are practically incomprehensible, but that isn’t really the point tonight. Everything is sweaty and dirty.

It is difficult to stand out in a market flooded with so many decent indie rock bands – including tonight’s DJs Bombay Bicycle Clubs (and, not be honest, far too many mediocre bands) but as long as these guys continue to make the great music they want to and allow themselves to grow as musicians, I believe we will see some awesome things for them. By no means a perfect band, but with all the right pieces and raw talent to be something really great. I hope they do.Dance to them in a little venue soon, before they move onto bigger things.

Author & Photos: Laura Oliver