Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *

Investigation is half the enjoyment of witnessing an abundance of bands when the Independent Pop Overthrow comes to one of its host cities. The research, the crossing off of a band, the tick box and the doodled happy face when you come across a group or artist who floats your boat and scratches the itch of the years of painted over smiles and thoughtful applause.

It might just be the quirky, the sound or the fact that the band you are watching somehow reminds you of what it was to enjoy something for the simple pleasure of doing so, either way, to make inquiries, to scrutinise and search for, and then find a band that fits the vibe, is one of the more special moments in life.

It is to come across the unexpected clue, the sitting down in front of a well laid out chain of evidence, that leads to the moment of recognition and the Sleuth being appreciated for the way they have commanded the puzzle and solved the mystery; that the nerves of piecing together a set which is enlightening and full of that old mystic of 60s pop vibe, that culminates in a metaphorical handshake of appreciation and the nod of certainly, this is what makes the journey to see a new band, worth it.

Across the two stages inside the Cavern Club, almost straight after each other, the pattern of the narrative was laid down, the heroes on the stage introduced and then greeted again, the soft melody capturing a harmony in the band from Wolverhampton in full flight, and in songs such as For The Idle We Stand, Sometimes We Just Need A Break and Together Everyone, that sincerity of being on the right side of the Sleuth’s discerning look and gut instinct is a powerful emotion and one not to be dismissed or played around wantonly with.

A wonderfully passionate set, beautifully structured by the band, Sleuth are a hugely welcome addition to the Independent Pop Overthrow.

Ian D. Hall