Reuben / Miss Black America - York Fibbers - 11/2/03
3/5
By: Matt Tomiak
An excellent bill of youthful Brit-rock hopefuls that always promised much - not least the opportunity to witness the new incarnation of incendiary Bury St Edmunds quartet, Miss Black America - it's fitting that tonight is a well-attended assembling of youngsters seeking axe-grinding thrills and kicks in a more-than-usually intense manner.
Thankfully, MBA's ferocious on-stage energy of olde remains firmly intact, whilst the band seemed to have attained a somewhat slicker, dare it be uttered, more professional edge since recent member-alterations. Aged favourites such as 'Talk Hard' and their own self-titled national hymn sound as riveting as ever, whilst there's enough new material on display to hint at a more anthemic, pensive side to the band. Obviously, those once in their original line-up must be kicking themselves that they ain't part of this one... Frontman Seymour Glass is still out there to cause a riot - no matter who's behind him.
Otherwise, there is a notable plenty of Reuben shirt-wearers in the crowd, and the converted throng seems to enjoy the competent-rather-than-exceptional emo rather more than might be expected. Still, latest single, the taut 'Let's Stop Hanging Out' delivers crunchy Foo Fighters-esque riffs and convincingly authentic vocals, whilst their inaugural launch single-release, 'Scared Of The Police' (apparently worth a whole £30:00 on Ebay, laydees and gents) still terrorises and screams with urgent aplomb. Clearly, the audience finds it a chore to remain standing rigid, and moves accordingly.
Energy and rasping immediacy that commands full attention - complacent, established acts: take note. The angst-rock revolution of 2003 shall take no prisoners.
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