 While
I’ve never been a massive Bloc Party fan,
they’re known for putting on a brilliant
show, and, after seeing one of their amazing performances
earlier in the year, I was excited for my second
helping.
At the Box Office, however, I’m handed
a photopass with SUPPORT ONLY scrawled across
the top. I’m expecting to shoot the whole
show, and after a couple of calls to tour managers,
my fears are confirmed – I’m to miss
out on photographing Bloc Party.
I make my way into the venue regardless, just
in time for supports, The Grammatics. The young
band from Leeds have been hand-picked by Bloc
Party themselves to support them on this tour,
so my expectations are high. I’m not disappointed
with their unique blend of indie rock; they flawlessly
deliver a tight set of instantly memorable songs
from their self-titled debut album. I wonder if
I’m the only one to notice that vocalist,
Owen Brinley’s voice bares an uncanny resemblance
to Hoosiers frontman, Irwin Sparkes’; so
much so that I have to double check it’s
not him in disguise.
 As the stage is prepared for Bloc Party, I decide
to take my chances in the pit, and manage to get
in unnoticed with my pass. A security guard informs
all of the photographers that we’ll need
to leave the venue after the first three songs,
which doesn’t go down well with anyone.
To make matters worse, my illegitimate pass is
discovered by a meticulous tour manager, and I’m
turfed out into the crowd moments before the band
takes to the stage. It was worth a try.
I watch the beginning of the show from the back
of the overcrowded room, but I can’t enjoy
myself after the disappointment of the evening,
and I’m looking over my shoulder, waiting
to be ejected for holding a camera. So I decide
to leave. I don’t doubt that my review would
have been glowing, and it’s a shame that
the people who promote the band have given the
band a bad reputation tonight.
The Grammatics – 4/5
Bloc Party – ?/5
Review By Helen Williams |
