The Rifles + Life In Film + Dexters, The Institute, Birmingham 18/11/13
The Rifles London four-piece The Rifles have been drawing a following of music enthusiasts since about 2004, and they certainly aren’t about to stop yet.
Dexters The night kicked off with another band flying the flag for London, Dexters. They’re a band of likely lads that are the new face of catchy indie-pop music – but that’s not it. Dexters showed their connection as a band when they played, drumming up up-tempo beats together with sunshine-y riffs. ‘Recover’ was the highlight of their set as they powered through with punchy vocals and guitar to deliver this anthem, oozing with cool.
Life In Film The venue filled up as the second display of the capital’s talent came from Life in Film. With a sound that nods towards Joy Division, Life in Film mesmerised fans. Their tight stringed riffs together with the haunting vocals of front man Samuel Fry made for the perfect set. This band make for soothing listening, and that’s what makes their lyrics so poignant. The delicate fragments of their music left space for their lyrics to sink deep within the ears of eager listeners. Skilled percussion together with all the right hooks added to their seamless performance. If you’re looking for a charismatic band that are a treat for the ears, Life in Film are it.
The Rifles Did someone say anthems? That certainly was the theme of the evening as The Rifles made their long awaited appearance to a boozy crowd. A strong stage presence only added to powerful song after powerful song that were sung word for word back to them from the roaring crowd. With tight musical timing they weaved their way through delicate balances of controlled guitar, percussion and vocals.Favourites ‘Local Boy’ and ‘Winter Calls’ were dead set winners with the Birmingham crowd as The Rifles ripped up a storm within the packed venue as fans bounced, sung, and spilt their beer to the tune of anthemia. The Rifles were a brilliant end to a brilliant night as their vast musical experience really came into play to deliver a winning performance – they certainly aren’t a band to be missed live. Photographs by Katy Smith
