NOVENDORS WITH SUPPORT FROM SCHTICK - UNION BAR
As a newcomer to the sound of NoVendors and an excited follower of Schtick, I had been eagerly awaiting this gig to see both bands take the stage. The room was packed in the Students Union “wee bar” by the time I arrived shortly after doors, a wildly impressive turnout for a support slot’s second gig and a headliner from Cavan. Shortly after entering, I was told that the gig had sold out, an even more impressive feat that made me ecstatic for the music that was about to come.
After struggling to get a spot in the front row, Schtick mounted the stage. A buzz of excited nervousness could be felt through the band and the crowd alike. The last time I saw the band, they were in this exact position, although the dynamic of the band had changed; a newfound confidence emanating. The songs were tighter and stronger, a strong indicator of continuous practice. The genre of the music is complementing better with each song, a consensus of sound being evident.
The jazz-fusion 5-piece played funk beats with whimsy, an addictive sound that just makes you want to dance. Their original songs were super strong, with my personal favourites being the song ‘useless’ and the more rocky, heavier-feeling song called ‘burnout’. Both songs have an emotional drive in the form of lyrics and melodic riffs that sparked instant rapport with the audience, there being an increased feel with these songs, but the smooth funk of the bass, drums and keys creates a really unique and dance-worthy vibe. Compared to the last time I saw the band, they seemed a lot more confident in not only their sound but also their stage presence. Dances between members, interactions with themselves and increased communication with the crowd led to a more rounded and better-flowing set. The room in the union bar was packed for these boys and it’s not for no good reason; I was really impressed by their evident progress and really look forward to their planned releases in the next few months. I have no doubt it won’t be the last packed room I see for them.
The band covered a song said to have inspired them, ‘What Once Was’ by Hers. Hearing the distinct initial riff, I assumed they would cover it as it’s played originally but was really pleasantly surprised by their unique and groovy take on the song. Although I was familiar with the song, after hearing the Schtick take on it, it felt like their own song by the second verse. The beat was picked up, guitars stripped back and vocals more melodic and jazzy than the original. A really impressive take on the song, one that I need to be uploaded somewhere.
Credit: @shotbycam.jpg
NoVendors rocked the stage with a matching black, sleek look. I had previously not heard of the 4-piece indie band but listened to their only released single before the gig, called ‘Ego’. I knew from then that I’d enjoy their set. They blended beautifully between the sound of Alex Turner's electrical feel and the raw and pop-punk feel of Billie Joe Armstrong. The band have been gigging and recording non-stop the last few years and this shows greatly in their live set. Each song flowed into the other, with an energy on stage that could only be gained from experience. Their guitar tones were beautiful, the bass lines meticulous and the drums always perfect. A well-rehearsed band may not seem important, but it really makes a band stand out. The leather-wearing lead singer had vocals that could match any genre, with a really impressive range and versatility. Their song ‘Exhale’ was my favourite in the set, with the riff making my mind go straight to the feeling of summer. The harmonies in all songs on the set were great, but the primed and melodic vocals really made this song stand out for me.
The band covered a few songs but were able to make them distinctly their own. They covered the Beatles and Arctic Monkeys with the same power and capability of each other, which really impressed me. It can be super difficult to incorporate a cover into a set and still let the set flow, but NoVendors did this brilliantly. The next time I see this band, which will hopefully be soon, I would love to see a bit more original content throughout; although hopefully this won’t be difficult, as they have their song ‘Ruby Rose’ available on February 20th.
For only having two bands on the lineup, I had a small expectation for the gig to feel smaller or go faster but I couldn’t be more wrong. Both bands were able to create such a great dynamic and fantastic energy that the gig felt super full in both sound and audience. I can’t wait to see the up-close progression of Schtick and hope this isn’t the last time I see NoVendors venture to Belfast.