Archie Bronson Outfit & The Rayographs The Lexington, London 27/1/10
4/5
[ALL PHOTOGRAPHY COPYRIGHT IRUNE CHAMBERLAIN ORTEGA]
The simplistic Rayographs trio combine sombre tones, intense noises and free-spirited vocals to create a dark and intriguing landscape, elaborated upon with odd narrations and prying bass grooves. Perhaps you’re being reminded of Patti Smith? Many have made the comparison, and there’s certainly a similar feeling musically and artistically as lead singer and guitarist Astrud stands assertively on stage, empowered and carefree.
At this early point the Lexington’s upstairs room is populated with a good numbered audience, though not to the brim, leaving space to breathe. ‘Hidden Doors’ opens the evening, its rumbling murmurs fitting in well with the low stage and barley-there lighting that suits the girls to perfection. It feels right to be pulled in by wistful blues in a dark room constituted of groups of friends, couples and a few solitary wolves. Not many are moving, but an ambience of trance and appreciation is predominant.
[ALL PHOTOGRAPHY COPYRIGHT IRUNE CHAMBERLAIN ORTEGA]
There is not a drop of arrogance to The Rayographs’ performance, just a complete sense of commitment to their music, and a humbleness that contributes to the sensitivity of their aura whilst juxtaposing nicely with their mean guitar riffs and rhythms. After a 2009 full of gigs, which I am sure were as mesmeric as the one cited, the girls are currently recording their debut album in NO Recording Studios alongside “Hollywood” John Hannon.
[ALL PHOTOGRAPHY COPYRIGHT IRUNE CHAMBERLAIN ORTEGA]
Far more world weary headliners The Archie Bronson Outfit have two albums under their belt (Fur 2004, and Derdang Derdang 2006) and now, after a four year gap, Coconut is out on the 1st of March. The album number three slog all kicked off with this Lexington show, continuing in the UK throughout March, to then cover France, Germany and Italy throughout April.
The crowd is eager and excited to say the least. Whereas the continually darkly lit room had been quite full during The Rayographs, it would now be fair to use the term jam-packed; consequently the journey from the front of the stage to the outside was a mission and a half (squeezing, dodging and even more ‘sorry’s than usual). Most have been at the venue for quite a bit now, warming up for this psychedelic hard rock; poison in hand and the thrill shining on surface.
[ALL PHOTOGRAPHY COPYRIGHT IRUNE CHAMBERLAIN ORTEGA]
Vocalist and lead guitarist Sam Windett solitarily organizes his guitars preparing for the gig which is running slightly late, though time is really only emphasised by the crowd’s anticipation. A man shouts out at him “we want some entertainment!” in a drunken growl. There is no acknowledgment, Sam goes back stage and comes out very shortly with the band. He’s laid back, they all stroll on, instruments are picked up and with no delay roaring loud music is belted from every speaker. That’s how it’s done.
The gig continues on the same howling note, perhaps getting even louder. The crowd belt along in a real ambience of enjoyment powered by the band’s hard-end psychedelic vibe. The closing song a stonker - ‘Got To Get’; quick riffs and aching beats that probably should have worn everybody out. Gluttons for punishment, they called for an encore. Alas, it wasn’t to be – but satisfaction was served all the same.
Artists in this article: Archie Bronson Outfit, The Rayographs
Your Feedback
Login to post your comment