Live Review

Boycotts – King Tut’s, Glasgow

• 10th Apr 2011

Glasgow band Boycotts played a fine set last night to launch their new single. With backing from two other local bands, this was a good opportunity for a healthy King Tut’s crowd to see some young Scottish talent.

Glasgow four piece rock band Otherpeople opened the evening with a short set of bass heavy rock music. They have a decent sound and a lead singer with a good vocal range, although his positioning at the left edge of the stage rather than in the centre was strange. The highlight was a rather disparaging song called Acoustic Guitars, sung with the disdain of one who plays an electric guitar.

Miniature Dinosaurs from Stirling were next. Their pop/ rock sound is appealing and there was a real confidence showed in their performance. It would be unfair to call them a boy band as they clearly have musical talent, especially the guitarist who doubled up on keyboards. Cold Shoulder was the best track, a fine keyboard into giving way to a fast rocker.

Boycotts have a refreshing brand of high tempo indie pop that sees a strong foundation set by the guitarist, bassist and drummer that allows frontwoman Stina Twee to shine. And shine she did, her vocals clear and dynamic as she danced and cavorted across the stage.

Real Life, the first of the songs on the single release, typifies the band’s musical approach. A strong beat from the three musicians featured an insistent guitar that set the pace as the vocals soared, strong and true. And many of the crowd were already dancing along.

There was some variety in the music, with Luella And Lies having more of a rock feel, the power chords cutting through the mix although the vocals were still the focus. And Bombay Sapphire with its heavy drum beat was an interesting song about drinking too much – not to be confused with the Stevie Nicks track.

The set continued apace. There was little time for chat, just good danceable music. Ordinary Love felt like an ‘80s new wave track with its fast tempo and edgy vocals, and the last song came around much too soon. The closing Press Play, the other half of the single, is an upbeat radio friendly track with an infectious chorus that ended a good set with some style.

Boycotts are a talented young band who have a good stage presence and a dynamic approach on stage. And in Stine Twee they have a focus for their music that should see their reputation as a live band continue to grow.