Damp Matches Album Launch
I was really looking forward to my first shoot at Norwich Arts Centre, and to local band Damp Matches debut album release party - and I was not disappointed.
Spineless
The venue was filling up nicely as I got there ahead of opening band Spineless. Based in Norwich, they describe themselves as a dark, industrial alt-rock band, and I could definitely hear influences ranging from Nine Inch Nails to classic Grunge. They clearly like to have fun too, and the wearing of party hats while the floor was covered in balloons added a humour to their set.
They certainly warmed the growing crowd up, and Vocalist Ziggy Waldron commanded the stage confidently. I really enjoyed their set and would urge you to listen to their debut track “Machinery”.
Lease on Life
Lease on Life mix poetry and music - lead vocalist Jack Farrell started his performing life as a poet, and he weaves spoken word in between songs, making for a unique and thoroughly enjoyable experience.
The music is fast, loud and heavy, and you can tell they mean it. Farrell’s jumpsuit was angrily discarded after the opening song and their infectious energy spilled into the crowd. The colourful balloons that Lease On Life had during their set were still flying around and made excellent targets for Farrell’s fists as he punched them away in time with the music.
Check them out live if you can, but if not you can get a flavour of their sound from latest release “Lease on Life” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlGY2RewJgo
Damp Matches
With everyone in the Arts Centre nicely warmed up, it was time for the headline band. Completing a trio of Norwich-based acts were Damp Matches, here to celebrate the release of their debut album “It Won’t Take Long”. Tonight was their biggest show to date, and what a way to celebrate as they put on a superb gig, showcasing excellent musicianship and fantastic stage presence.
Singer Helena Lewis gave me Sally Bowles vibes, with her party hat and how she moved around the stage. Her powerful voice is superb and soars above the band of guitarists Dominic Clarke and Stephen Spiers, and the powerful rhythm section of Will Calvert on bass and Lee Jaggard on drums.
The band have worked hard to gain a reputation and following, and the audience was full of fans who sang along to every word. The energy in the room and the connection the band has with their fans was great to see, with Helena Lewis often stepping one foot on the barrier, getting close to the crowd and engaging with them.
The music itself is hard to define. Yes its rock, but there are infectious elements of indie and rap thrown in there too, with various band members rapping to compliment the lead vocals.
As well as putting on a great show for their loyal followers, I expect Damp Matches made a few new fans tonight - myself being one of them, and I’m looking forward to seeing them again soon.
You can hear “It Won’t Take Long” on all the usual streaming services. https://open.spotify.com/album/34CvrRJbHIZMDzEYRVcF9b?si=I3tfetDNToOmIaWY0uWgxA
