Let's Rave On...
Within seconds of taking the stage, The Raveonettes refer to their previous King Tuts gig where their amps cut out and set out to atone for that malfunction. Touring to promote their forthcoming record 'Pretty In Black', the band launched into an exciting new number, which featured an extended instrumental outro and set the tone for the evening.
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Quickly following up with old favourites 'Heartbreak Stroll' and 'Lets Rave On', the busy crowd were swept away by Sharin and Sune and their backing band.
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A batch of new songs was unveiled with the drums coming across really well. At times almost tribal, there was a sense of urgency about the beats behind the songs and it certainly bodes well for the new album. 'Sleepwalking' was highly impressive and its lyrics also contain the new album title.
Halfway through the set another one-two of 'Little Animal' and 'That Great Love Sound' had the cool cats purring with delight and everyone else pogo-ing like crazy. In an age where the word pop stands for bland and mainstream music, The Raveonettes hark back to a time when pop was fresh and worth getting excited over.
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However, while some of the new material still bears the mark of the 1950's and 1960's there are many indications that the band has broadened their influences. Set closer 'Twilight' features a rhythm and guitar riff reminiscent of a late 1990s indie-dance crossover. Surprisingly, it worked and encouraged some impromptu dancing in front of the sound desk.
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Sharin Foo, who appears to grow in stature and confidence with every tour, reciprocated the appreciation felt towards the band by stating they should write a song called 'Ode To King Tuts' and it was no surprise an encore followed the original set. Previous album opener 'Remember' chimes like a classic Phil Spector produced track of the 1960's and the set was closed with new track 'Somewhere In Texas', a dark marauding tale of lost love and wrongdoings.
If you ever considered The Raveonettes as too much of a pastiche, it could be worth checking out their new record. If you already love The Raveonettes, none of this will come as a surprise and the hours to 'Pretty In Black' will be counted down with gleeful anticipation.
To view all photos taken during this set click here. There are 28 available.