Opening gambit ‘Are You Happy With Yourself’ pretty well sets the mood for the evening: serious messaging, strong melodies, powerful rhythmic edge, passionate and expert delivery. Lyrics are sparse but the question posed and the manner of its communicationis enough to get one thinking - thoughts of excessive materialism, superficial relationships, social justice and much more surface throughout this show.

‘Built In’ is equally powerful and I’m struck by Veasey’s vocal and Robinson’s amazing stick work - both absolutely critical in this band’s makeup. The song has a more complete set of meaningful lyrics such as the opening salvo: “Have you seen Mr Pretend/He’s making it up as he goes along again/Have you seen his gold
CV/That’s all that he’ll ever want to be.” The guitars of Bamford and Warnes come into their own on the next song, ‘Personal Patrol’ although that devestating drum rhythm never lets go…

‘Join Us’ fairly rattles along with Robinson on drums leading the relentless and raw charge. By the time this song arrives I’m convinced that The Suzukis are one special band, able to write and perform serious rock music which is both compelling and entertaining. There’s few smiles from the guys who I sense are somewhat disappointed with the small crowd’s response to their performance - I think more a case of right performance, wrong crowd.
‘Join Us’ once agin sees guitars making their mark chased every inch by rampant drums and another fabulous vocal. ‘HMS Greyface’ is another stunning album track and performed with the band’s characteristic venom - one of the night’s major highlights.

The band’s debut album is released on the 25th July and I can promise you some of the best rock ‘n’ roll you’ll hear in 2011. But beware, this music is not for the light-hearted optimists and pop-rockers. No, this is serious shit delivered with meticulous quality and an integrity that is becoming increasing rare in these times of easy and convenient Radio 1 music. The performance from these guys left no stone unturned - I was moved, excited and extremely impressed.

SETLIST

Are You Happy With Yourself?, Built In, Personal Patrol, Join Us, Reasons For leaving, HMS Greyface, Choice, Is That Enough?

http://www.thesuzukis.com/

http://www.shakenstir.co.uk/index.php/gallery/?album=3240&gallery=1778