Paselode @ Soundproof, Hamiltron, Friday June 2nd

Ok, first up I feel obliged to apologise for, well, Hamilton really. If you were there you'll know what I'm talking about. Hamilton probably seems like a very scary place if the regulars at Soundproof are anything to go on.

So anyway, yeah - I missed most of the opening bands (was there more than one? I'm not sure...). I did see a little bit of the band before Paselode, but I'm afraid I can't remember their name or much of their music - probably more my fault than theirs, although in my defence, Soundproof isn't a bar that I feel awefully safe staying in for any longer than absolutely neccessary. Luckily my timing was pretty good, and Paselode got things rolling before I chickened out and ran home.

Well, I've seen these guys twice now and I still don't know how to describe them. I won't attempt to pigeon-hole them into any one genre, as they hop between genres casually and frequently, and flirt with all the other genres when they settle on a particular blend for a song. They do have a serious rock/groove thing going on, and just enough prettiness, melody and art to keep things interesting. And considering how often they chop and change tempos and time signitures, they are a very dancable band (a dozen bobbing shaved heads can't be wrong).

Friday's set was pretty damn good. An unfortunate mix didn't do them any favours (I'm sure some of their instruments to actually have treble and volume controls), but the songs and energy carried through regardless. I would love to hear these guys with a nice mix, I'm sure it would be mind blowing. In fact the first time I saw them at the Kings Arms they pretty much were.

Dispite the "mix", the songs carried through regardless. They were so good that I almost bought their CD (which for me to even consider is good sign). I'm a little bit scared that the CD won't be as good as they are live though - but I haven't heard it yet, so I'm prepared to be presently suprised. They have and energy and quality that I don't often see (although perhaps I should get out of Hamilton more) and the songs are just plain cool.

And... funniest moment(s) of the night were the occasional blast beats between songs that sent the crowd into a brief head-wobbling-beer-guzzling frenzy. Ahhhh... only in Hamilton. Glad the band made it out intact.

Dylan Lee