Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * * *
The Sugarmen have built up a steady reputation, one that a sweaty, sultry night in Liverpool’s The Cavern Club can only further enhance. Presented by Radio Merseyside’s legendary local music champion Dave Monks, The Sugermen gave a blistering account of themselves on what can only be described a scintillating night.
The opening track of the night, Circuit Queen which was recorded for Eighties Vinyl Records, is simply a fantastic song. The only effort the band have laid down at present, it serves to define the rest of their set well. The energy is phenomenal, the chemistry magnificent. Frontman, Luke Fenlon, is as natural as you will see from any lead singer. The manner in which he controls the stage, the audience, is a joy to behold; not even three different guitar string breakages throughout the night can deter him!
Nothing But Respect follows suit. It contains the powerful, punchy chorus of the set opener with a guitar build up almost reminiscent of the Hunky Dory era Bowie. It’s not hard to see the band’s influences (think Velvet Underground on a sunny day) and they borrow heavily from those that have come before to great effect. Dirt comes next and lays on the explosive, harmonic choruses expected by now.
The next track, Fast Food Law, is again simple yet effective. Whilst probably being the weakest song of the performance, it still draws foot shuffling down the front, something which clearly delights the endearing Fenlon.
As the band launch into Slow Road it would be easy to forget that they have only been together a few months. Formed by Fenlon and guitarist Chay Heney, the attention Sugarmen have attracted already is impressive. They can count Jon McClure (Reverend & The Makers) and Mick Jones (The Clash, B.A.D.) as fans and two men who are actively seeking to work with them on their single when the time comes.
Rabbit Hole comes next and is unlike any other in the set. It boasts an impressive build up, culminating in a heavily 80s influenced radio friendly, dance track. However, this change doesn’t last long and final track of the night, This is My Life (And It’s Alright), sees Sugarmen return to their stomping best. Combing all of the ferocity of an early Kinks track with their own brand of melodic chorus, this set closer is a fitting choice given the particular world famous venue.
There’s been a lot of hype surrounding Sugarmen and the fact they’re here already, headlining a Cavern Club show recorded live for Radio Merseyside, is testament to their emerging talent. In a city proud of its cultural and musical heritage, Sugarmen fit firmly in the next generation of musicians for Liverpool to champion.
Will McIntosh