Confession Time - it was only a few days before Friday's gig that I'd first started listening to Life At The Arcade, however, with their quirky indie riffs and catchy lyrics - it's not surprising that they quickly became my 'most listened-to band' on Spotify this week!
The gig itself was held at the infamous Record Factory on Byres Road - the ideal venue for all music lovers and the perfect place to discover the latest talent. I can't believe this was my first time attending a gig there but after Friday it certainly won't be my last!
One band I actually discovered before Life at the Arcade came on, was the Scottish rock group 'Black Star Jackals' who were a pleasant surprise. After hearing a few songs, it was like 'Red Hot Chili Peppers' meets 'The Goo Goo Dolls' - a very classic 90s rock vibe. Something I feel the music industry of our generation is missing. It's nice to hear a decent rock band in this modern day with a strong vocal lead. Black Star Jackals are definitely a band I recommend checking out!
After a brief break - it was time for my headliners to come on!
The band itself is made up of four lovely lads all the way from Liverpool: Paddy on vocals and guitar, Adam on lead guitar, Ben on bass and Paul on drums. Each of their own individual talents helps create the perfect distinctive indie mix that defines Life at the Arcade.
As soon as they came on stage, you could tell their confidence and likeable charm instantly drew more people to the crowd. As their first song, Antidote, began, the upbeat riff made it impossible to stand still. Right from the get-go, the lads’ energy on stage was simply stunning and you could see the passion within all four members. Ben, the bass player, in particular just looked so lost in the music when performing which was just so amazing to see. A true band that clearly know what they want and have the drive to go out and get it. A very powerful thing to see as gig reviewer and that’s something you can’t lose.
After hearing the brilliant, ‘Wonderland’ the third song from their eight song setlist, I could instantly see a young Catfish and the Bottlemen which is exciting considering how big Catfish are nowadays. It’s amazing how the indie/ alternative genre has taken over within the last few years with more upcoming bands now writing and performing their own material and Life at the Arcade are no exception. Their latest single, ‘Tabloids’ beautifully captures the relevant issue of our society’s media constantly promoting false stories and is the inspiration for the UK tour name, 'Fake News' . It's those type of frustrating topics that make for a great song!
My favourite song of the night ,however, had to be the incredible ‘Tied up’ with it’s indie rock vibe and feel good beat, it was the ultimate performance! What’s more, the guitar solo half way through was insane - just another indication of the sheer talent Life at the Arcade has. Ending the set with perhaps their most popular song, 'Little Lies', I was sad to see the gig end. Small gigs can always be tough for a band but with a good turnout and the right attitude they can turn out to be ones you remember the most. Definitely one of the best gigs I've seen this year. Incredible!
Overall, it’s clear that the Liverpool lads have a strong drive to succeed within the music industry and after seeing their gig on Friday, there’s no doubt that Life at the Arcade will go on to do big things! The gig itself was a well-rehearsed professional set and if this is what they’re like at the start of their music career then I can’t imagine how good they will be in years to come. If you have a ticket for the rest of the UK
tour, you are in for a treat and if you don’t – what are you waiting for?
Links: Life at the Arcade:
Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/LifeAtTheArcade/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/LifeAtTheArcade
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/LifeAtTheArcade/
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/27Z6GpkaIvECfYiX3o4hBU?si=cQn6VdxVRVWxyEyMMRIQZQ
Black Star Jackals -
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/blackstarjackals/
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