If you read further down this blog, you will see that on 14th March, I reviewed the acoustic show by The Charlatans at the Stoke Underground, for The Sentinel newspaper. Having a word limit of 250 words for a show doesn’t exactly give you any artistic licence whatsoever to wax lyrical about an incredible support act, but that is something of a format that this blog gives to me exclusively, and which was built for times such as this.
The Charlatans were ok, but let’s face it, I was never going to be blown away by them, as they really aren’t the sort of music that I would listen to normally. By chance, rather than by design, I ended up at the Underground pretty early, conscious of finding a decent parking spot anywhere near the Underground, now that the surrounding area in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent has been uprooted and changed, to make way for yet another Tesco superstore.
I was unimpressed, thinking that I would have to sit through two support acts that would be similar in musical stylings to the headliners. I wasn’t sure how it would go down to be honest. That was until Rogue States took to the stage, and over the course of 30 minutes, proceeded to completely and utterly blow me away, and make me fall in love with them. Apparently they were one man down, but rather than pulling out of the show, the Birmingham based group heroically played a stripped back acoustic set for those who had ventured down to the venue early.
What has always annoyed me about Indie gig crowds is that they oftentimes come across as somewhat moronic. Tonight was no exception. The gig was sold out, but the entire dancefloor was empty, as the masses crowded at the bar area and stood chatting, ignoring the genius of what was before them. Rogue States barely registered with those in attendance, and that was a complete shame.
The three piece were excellent, and played the set of their lives. They played folk tinged acoustic rock-pop numbers which were incredible. To the new listener, they were that good, it sounded as though this was the type of music they played regularly. I had no idea until I got back later that night, that they were in fact an Indie rock guitar band. You would never have guessed. Stripped back and laid bare, they were truly exceptional, and the lead singers voice was on top form, soaring over beautiful acoustic guitar accompaniment, and excelling on a couple of tracks that saw him not only play acoustic guitar competently, but at the same time, wailing on a strap on harmonica mouthpiece, much in the same vain as Dylan in his prime. To say I was impressed was a complete understatement. It was completely magical.
Having now had chance to listen to their EP on their website, I am still completely captivated by this group. Once I knew that it could have been the usual run of the mill Indie rock, I was sceptical – I am not the biggest fan of Indie music, unless it comes in the form The Killers, Kaisers, etc. However, I am pleased to say that I really enjoyed my first listen of EP Rumours/Secrets. The voice is still out in force, and sounds majestic throughout. It starts stronger than it finishes perhaps, but it hints at brilliance, and with a full length, they could really make a strong impact on the scene in the future. I also expect that it will get better with further listens, as there is so much to take in with regards to talent and musicianship, that it is impossible to fully appreciate it all on one listen alone. A few more spins will most definitely see that right, and I anticipate that by the time I have done that, I will really love all the tracks on this short EP.
The lead track from the EP Second Wave is wonderous, and still sounds epic with a full band accompaniment, rather than in an acoustic setting. It is a clear hit. There are some driving Indie rock moments, and then more pensive and reflective tracks, which suit a different mood entirely. However, the band manage to capture so many emotions in such a short space of time, and with 6 tracks, they really do make a great impression. Echoes of the Great Empires is a great track, as is The Tongue Is a Fire.
As good as it is though, it would be a shame if Rogue States forgot their acoustic talents, and an EP of acoustic material would go down a storm, especially considering how “in” folk rock and pop music is at the moment. There really were a unique proposition that night, and although the crowd were nothing more than ignorant, they put on a great performance. A couple of bluegrass infused tracks also stood out on the night, with a banjo being used in the set to great effect.
Rogue States could well be onto something special here, and it would be great to see them get some much deserved exposure. The full band tracks were great, and I am glad that after the spectacle of the acoustic set, they didn’t fall flat. They still have a long way to go, but I genuinely believe in what they are doing. I am a fan, and can’t wait to pick up a physical copy of their EP soon.
Go check them out, and take a listen – there are no excuses, considering the album is being streamed for free – www.roguestates.net
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