On a night the football is on I will ways more than happily go and support grassroots live music instead. And so I did at Newcastle’s The Cluny, where Joan Smith and the Jane Doe(s) and Pave The Jungle set the stage alight.
Local alternative rock outfit Pave The Jungle made their return to the stage with a different line-up and some new music after I last saw them perform at Alphabetti, and it’s got to be said, a bigger stage suits them much better. Instant heavy, rambling riffs, stunning vocals from both singer and guitarist Rachael and drummer Scott, and thunderous drums made for some deliciously addictive slices alt rock. Crowd favourite was their latest single ‘Smiling At Dogs’, while my personal favourite was the moment Rachael took the stage on her own and gave her band a break. It sprinkled some extra magic over the evening and de that one of their most memorable performances for me.
Canadian heavy dance rock band Joan Smith & the Jane Doe(s) are close to wrapping up their UK tour and I’m glad they touched down in Newcastle. A remarkably energetic live performance with a whole lot of bluesy rock riffs made for the perfect pastime on a Thursday evening. The entire four-piece convinced with their live energy and through wandering guitar-heavy soundscapes. Shapes were thrown, a connection with the audience was forged, and the importance of heavy dance rock bands was clearly shown. Despite many shying away from organising grassroots events during football matches, I’m glad this particular band did, as I would not have wanted to miss being a part of their UK tour. Joan Smith & The Jane Doe(s)’ set moved like a rollercoaster and ended on an expansive high that left me buzzing and wanting more!
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