Clearlake - London Royal Festival Hall - 8/10/00
4/5
By: Toby L
Written by a confused rockfeedback after first hearing them as 'like Gomez, except with more barre chords', Clearlake really shouldn't be described. They're odd. They'd most likely, and quite happily, admit that they're not normal. But, along with odd, at least in their case, comes class, of a kind that isn't comparable.
Playing a support-set to the cult Incredible String Band and epic lo-fi act, The Delgados, whiny frontman Jason Pegg of the band seems pleased to be alongside such acts. 'Er, well, ooh, erm. Enjoy the Incredible String Band, they're, er, incredible, as well as the Delgados who are just, erm, amazing!' He wasn't having a joke; refreshingly, Pegg genuinely seemed humbled to be there. Mind you, it probably would be an honour for any up and coming band to be in their shoes; playing live in the prestigious Royal Festival Hall, legendary DJ John Peel compering and slurring his way through introducing each act, as well as the fact that there is a 2,500 strong audience glaring at you.
Where they fit into the current music scene has yet to be determined, but it's of little relevance as they dash their way through trippy keyboards and fiddly guitar, which instantly enchants the viewer/listener. It's a full sound too for only four members: close your eyes and an orchestra of dozens could have been muso-ing their way through the almost psychedelic tunes on display. Clearlake's sound will be the kind that matures and develops too, but their church-feelgood factor must be experienced live to believe it's real. Have faith in them. Amen.
Artists in this article: Clearlake
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