So that was...April

Okay, so it's mid May, I know. April seems a long time ago now - thankfully. Full of rain and bleakness. And more rain.

Somewhere amidst that, headed down to Hoxton for Strangers London date, which was also the single launch night for The Ghosts follow-up to 'Enough Time' - 'Ghosts'. Both bands went down extremely well to an appreciative crowd. Strangers playing their first gig after their Xfm radio session on John Kennedy's X-posure. Playing four tracks, although this had been pre-recorded, vocalist and writer David Maddox-Jones did get on the phone to JK live. He hadn't bargained on my sending John a message telling him to ask David what inspired one of the songs they were to play - 'It Was A Sin' - which you can hear below - as it is actually about the lady who is now his partner, but wasn't, erm, at the time...long story, sort of! It's one of the band's best songs. I think.




That was a bit of a full night, as there was a two-way clash with TOY and Savages at XOYO; arriving just in time at XOYO - after a fast dash from Hoxton's Bar & Kitchen - for the last few numbers of Savages set. Well worth it it was too. Jehnny Beth (resplendent in killer heels) and her fellow three-girl gang knock out a raft of stonking tunes with precision and stage savvy. Have a listen to a new song from them, 'Shut Up' - filmed just a few weeks ago.



Sadly, the night's headliners TOY I saw little of. One look at the gorgeous Tom Dougall and I came over all faint! Absolutely true. But apparently they played a blindng set, naturally drawing to a close with the epic that is 'Left Myself Behind'. Oh and yes, it rained that night as well...

It was also raining when Citizens! played the last of their three night residency at Ridley Road Market Bar in Dalston. A small little cafe/bar type affair (if you know The Shacklewell Arms, well this place is about half the size even of that) that has quite a nice vibe (even if the loos are somewhat lacking...). Caught up with Mike and Lawrence from the band for chats early on, and with the lovely Tomas from Man Without Country who were the evening's opener. Playing as a duo (sans drums) in the tiny floor space that is called the 'stage', they still managed to sound huge, synthy and ultimately glossy. Their long-awaited debut album finally drops in June which is going to be a treat to hear.

The mighty Clock Opera celebrated their debut album launch at Scala - and won over yet more hearts I have no doubt - and am sure Guy was in his element playing on the stage of the venue he so loves.

I think it rained too...