| ROBIN 2 GIG REVIEWD BY STEVE HOUGH UKROCKNET.COM |
| The Robin 2, like quite a few other venues in the area is trying to set aside an evening for original bands to showcase themselves, which as far as I'm concerned is a stp in the right direction. Mogul from Staffordshire. Their four piece line up consist of Ian Forster on guitar, vocals and occasional harmonica, Andy Gill on guitar, Alison Rowley on bass and backing vocals, and Phill Wragg on drums. On stage they are tight (especially the bass and drums rhythm section), slick and professional, with good presentation and movement, though something a little more imaginative in the costume department wouldn't go amiss. Their original songs are well arranged and constructed, played with confidence and competence - something that seems to be beyond so many bands these days. Using an acoustic guitar (as Andy Gill does) gives their music and intersting feels and perspective. For me this set them head and shoulders above the many 'Indie' branded bands I have seen of late. Another interesting point is the guitar carousel - flash but useful. Changing guitars and sounds gave their music much more character, and the use of some harmonica by Ian also added some extra flavour. All that was missing was a few well put together three part harmonies. Another interesting permutation was when bassist Alison (who has a very cheeky grin that I was not able to capture on film as she seems a little more than camera shy!) changed places and instruments with acoutic player Andy . A good visual touch,which aslo shows that the bands members have the grasp of more than one discipline. Mogul are not doubt one of the better bands coming into the Midlands scene, and I will be watching their development with interest. |
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