The Head of Steam is the kind of venue where the staff are canny but the toilets have a pin number and you can pick a cubicle with two out three features: a lock, toilet roll, or not clogged. Upstairs it’s full of slightly awkward tables fixed into the seating, and a really decent array of drinks. Gigs are held in the cellar, a small space with a limited bar. It smells a bit like if someone spilled a lot of alcohol pops last Friday, every last Friday, since it opened.
Death Cult Electric were the warm up act. It was their last night supporting Haggard Cat, so if you like the idea of them you’ll have to track them down yourself. They did put a shout out to anyone with connections to promoters so they are actively touring. Their music and stage presence were really enjoyable. The vocals are slightly quieter than the music so it forces you to lean into get the lyrics. ‘Alligator’ and ‘Wishy-washy’, were my stand out songs, they have a fun, funny, powerful, punchy vibe. Their trippy, frantic guitars really drive their music. Unfortunately I had to go to the loo at one point and when I returned my plus one told me I’d missed a guitar/theremin battle. I was gutted, and 90% sure he wasn’t pulling my leg.
Haggard Cat really blasted the roof off. The duo were were so loud and intense the sound system was crackling like crazy throughout their set. They are hardcore punk, high energy, high volume, ear drum bursting. I’m not familiar with their older music, the stuff they are playing on this tour is mostly new. I was left with the strong impression that they were really pushing themselves. Drummer Tom Marsh told us he was struggling with some wrist pain and you could see he was forcing his way through the pain but you wouldn’t have known if he hadn’t said he was suffering – the drums were the highlight. They often went in unexpected directions driving the momentum. Speaking of unexpected, Matt Reynolds (guitar and vocals) lunged into the crowd absolutely doing battle with his guitar. Seeing Haggard Cat live is such a must, it’s truly the best way to experience the chaos and creativity they are delivering with every note!
They merch stand was mostly T-shirts and a couple of patches. I love the Haggard Cat logo so much I had a look at their online offerings and a pretty cool yellow vinyl may have bought my eye.
A top night all round. My ears are still ringing, but in the best way. If this is what punk sounds like now give me more!
Haggard Cat: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Bandcamp
Death Cult Electric: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Bandcamp
Review by Lauren P
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