大象传媒

The IMRO showcase spread across Katy Daly's and The Limelight was a good idea in theory - showcasing eight bands under one roof, including Cashier No9, Joe Echo, A Plastic Rose and teenage rock sensation A505. For me however, the thought of losing my front line seat was too much to bear, so I permanently headquartered myself at The Limelight.

First up, Pocket Promise, kicked off without introduction, performing tunes 'Inside Out' to 'Deja Vu'. Lead singer Cormac Fee, interchanged from exclusively vocals to playing the keyboard and guitarist Dominic Coyle really gave it his all on stage. The quartet played tightly in single-mindedness, creating moods and revealing layers of Muse and Radio Head. 'Facing Down' was the highlight of the set for me; bringing the band to an almighty climax. However, the instruments over powered the vocals at times, making the lyrics hard to make out.

Ed Zealous, got the first big applause of the night when they played 'Pretty Face', leaving the lyrics 'No way Jose' resonating in my head for the rest of the night. 'Mario' and 'Getaway Cars' also triumphed at getting fans to congregate on the dance floor. Front man Steve McAvoy, sang powerfully in a Led Zepplinesque fashion; intermittently orchestrating his hands to the drum beat. With every strut and ounce of sweat this foursome produced, especially where drummer Paul Irwin was concerned, you certainly got your money's worth.

Next Si Schroeder entered the frame, setting out with acoustic number 'Avant Garde' which Si had to give up on mid-way, since the energy created by the Zealous crew had the audience still buzzing with chat. But that certainly didn't bring the set to a halt as Si powered back with 'Lavendermist'; head banging with conviction. Strong melodies with eerie sounds, made every song a living piece of art. Moreover, for one song Si's guitarist pressed a hand held electric fan against the strings of his guitar, for good measure. Though, despite the front man's vigour on stage to the veiled beats, the quintet's serene tempo didn't quite fit after the energy frenzied Ed Zealous and before the Panama Kings; nor do the band justice.

The headliners, aptly named the kings, stormed in playing killer tracks 'Golden Recruit', to 'I Don't Wanna Die'. 听Each member performing in a musically driven haze, which the crowd couldn't get enough of. Front man Niall Kennedy's voice bounced off the crowd and he reflected the real sense of camaraderie that reigned throughout the night between bands, saying he was humbled to be playing after his heroes Ed Zealous. The foursome went out on 'Your Children Are Screaming' with the drummer diving into the audience and Niall kindly extending an invitation to everyone in the audience to come to their place afterwards. Yes they are living the dream.

Cathy Moorehead