The Late Late Of The Pier Review
A while ago, I was trying to put together a review of the new Late Of The Pier single 'Heartbeat', but couldn't put the video into the blog posting because it contains some swearing. This mildly-irksome situation took a long time to reach a resolution (we've got a copy without the swearing, basically), but I think you'll agree, if you look, that the wait has been entirely worth it.
I have NEVER seen a video which encapsulates the sound of a band as perfectly as this does for this band.
I have another thought about this band to share with you, and it is this.
One of the best times I have ever had in a concert environment was watching Cornish Kaiser Chiefs fans attempting to make head or tail of Late Of The Pier when both bands played at Eden.
This lot were their typical wayward selves, pouting and preening, and playing confusing skronk-pop as if the world was theirs for the taking. Meanwhile, large sections of the audience looked on with benign confusion, hoping that the ordeal would soon end, but not wanting to look as if they didn't get what was going on.
The key factors at play were the tolerant intolerance of the audence, and the triumphant "Hello Wembley!" rock star self-confidence of Late Of The Pier. Even when, on announcing their last song, the band got a big cheer, I still came away feeling that human nature had been well represented on all sides.
That's why they're one of THOSE bands, despite making music which perhaps won't ever sell in Kaiser Chiefs-ian quantities. They're provocative, but melodic. Poppy, but abrasive. A sheep in wolves clothing. A rusty spanner in the honey-pot.
Also they make videos in which the singer knocks himself over several times. And you have to love that.
(Heartbeat was out on Monday)
Comment number 1.
At 13th Aug 2008, Blonde wrote:I would like to make it clear that not all of us Kaiser Chief fans were confused by LOTP. I was really excited when the supports were announced and I loved every minute of the Late of The Pier set and didn't want it to end.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 1)
Comment number 2.
At 13th Aug 2008, Fraser McAlpine - wrote:I would like to add that this is true, there were quite a few people who gave the band a very warm reception. But there were more people who looked confused.
Complain about this comment (Comment number 2)