Cardiff Live #2 at Fuel, Cardiff, headlined by Black Lakes
Written By: Steve Kendrick
Photos By: Mac Kendrick
50 Year Storm start proceedings with a deep and dark sound. The band has an interesting feel of indie / rock with a few country / honky tonk vibes that kick in occasionally from Andy (Limn guitar). Damon Morey has mysterious vocals, with a cutting haunting edge, while Emma Limn gives energetic beats of her drumkit.
During a brief banter between tracks, Emma defines the band as of no specific genre identity, however with this buzz from the amplifiers we could call it buzz rock !
Cancel The Transmission is a popular local Welsh rock band, and the venue quickly fills up as the sound of Josh Thomas’ lead guitar rings out. Some killer kick ass riffs and solos are produced with passion throughout the set, and the sound of melodic catchy tunes from the four-piece from Caerphilly definitely seem to have connected with the crowd.
I had the pleasure meeting Verity White earlier in the venue, and her genuine and warm personality shines through. I’ve known of Verity’s music for some years and watched some lockdown shows, but hadn’t got the chance to see her and husband Alex (guitar) previously.
Once the pair hit the stage, Verity’s unique energy comes through and every bit of the stage is used. The fab harmonisations and vibrant performance means the crowd is on their side, and the interaction is impressive.
I’ll be honest I’m blown away with the whole set. If you’ve never seen Verity and Alex live, then in my opinion it’s a must; also pre-order the new EP and check out the back catalogue (links below).
Black Lakes take to the stage to headline Fuel for the very first time and waste no time in blowing the cobwebs away ! In a truly stunning set filled with powerful vocals, epic guitar riffs and thundering drums, the six-piece from Chepstow mesmerise everyone in attendance. After being so impressed by their recently-released debut album, For All We’ve Left Behind, I had wondered if they could do justice to these songs live, but they do this and more!
A short tribute to Taylor Hawkins with a version of My Hero finishes the set with the crowd wanting more. Black Lakes are going to be playing on bigger stages and to bigger audiences soon. I urge you to catch this band at a small venue while you still can!
