Like a bunch of cockney nutjobs, The Rifles are the missing link between The Clash and The Jam. With a plethora of V-necks and Union Jack badges, you'd be forgiven for thinking you were watching The Ordinary Boys, except this time they've remembered to write songs that the milkman will whistle. She's Got Standards, Robin Hood and Local Boy all show signs that The Rifles could make one of the great indie-pop albums of the year.
 | | The Rifles |
Most bands would saw off their right leg to be playing a near capacity Academy 2, but there's a sickening thought whenever you mention the name the Dead 60s that they truly could have been one of the biggest bands in the country if their label knew how to market them. As the sirens wail announcing their arrival, the Dead 60s arrive with a new found swagger in their step. Loaded Gun starts off a series of old favourites, splintered with a couple of offerings from their as yet untitled new album. Saturday Night, the first of tonight's newies, is classic Dead 60s except this time they've looked to Franz Ferdinand’s knack for taking far reaching influences and wrapping it up in a radio friendly pop tune. Switching from Mad Professor style dub to in-yer-face punk anthems, the brief 45 minute set is scattered with would-be classics; Last Resort, You're Not The Law, Riot Radio and the closing Ghost Faced Killer all thrill. If the Dead 60s keep up the momentum, they could yet take the mantel of the UK’s biggest band.
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