Ben Howard

If there is ever a musician I would say you had to see before you died it would be really hard decision, but Ben Howard comes pretty close. Admittedly it took me longer to discover this man than most of the rest of the world. Although I can't tell you why, I'm sure the amount of plays he's had in the last year has to make up for it. 

It was a dreary Thursday evening in London, the O2 was bursting at the doors in anticipation of being serenaded by the beach inspired indie sound of this humble English surfer. I know the feeling all too well. Howard has a stage presence that takes you elsewhere, you forget he's been playing riffs from the same song for 5 minutes, without any lyrics. You see his genuine love for the art of music and realise there's more to it than a surfer with a British accent.

11th Dec. 2014 - O2 Brixton

Palace

You know how sometimes you're head over heels in love with a band and your live gig expectations for them are really high and then they disappoint?

And you know how sometimes your expectations are high and they effortlessly exceed them? 

I feel these days it does't happen that often, but my friends we've got a definite winner here. 

Let me positively change your life and introduce you to Palace (you're welcome), because my god they are charming. 

I was completely astounded from their first chord, Leo's voice is just as good (actually better) live than recorded. Their music is so real, meaningful and above all effing good. It's so refreshing to find bands around these days who make such good music. It's evident through their music, film clips and interviews they are humble and daringly passionate in what they're doing. 

They played Green Door Store in Brighton a couple of weeks back and I'm going to say it now, and forever hold my peace, but these boys are the best band I've seen live. I was left absolutely speechless. 

I took some photos, which I'm not super happy with (except the top one of Leo, one of my faves ever) but plz enjoy. 

Also, with fear of sounding shallow I think we should also take a second to appreciate that they attracted a really good looking audience.

Gengahr

A few weeks back I decided to take that leap again and go to a gig alone and boy I'm glad I did because not only did these guys absolutely nail it but so did their support.

Honestly I don't remember where I discovered Gengahr, I think possibly in the line up of a festival somewhere over the course of this year. Actually, I remember having them circled on a programme for one but never making it to the gig. 

Lucky for me Brighton is a hot spot for up and coming/good music, so the chance again arose. Safe to say I snatched this one with two hands. 

Honestly I'm not super happy with these photos, but I'm taking it entirely as a lesson that needs to be learnt.

Ps, listen to Gengahr 

The Vaccines

Night 2 of The Great Escape 2015, surprise act happens to be my favourite band at the time, who you've probably guessed from the title was The Vaccines. I changed my plans that night to ensure I was front row - living in that moment. 

Now, honestly, they weren't my favourite live band but I still love their recorded stuff and they were still a whole lot of fun.

The Maccabees

It was The Great Escape 2015, night 3 in The Brighton Dome and the chances of getting in were oh so slim. Luck was obviously on my side that night because I was about number 50 to walk in the door  - thank you kind drunk stranger, I'm very thankful.

I'm not a massive fan of The Maccabees, infact 'Toothpaste Kisses' is the extent of my knowledge. But these guys live are fab and his voice is absolutely incredible. I managed to squeeze my way to the front and snap a few sneaky graphs on the way, which I'm pretty happy with. When I reached the front I ran into my new friend from the night before, who I funnily enough met at the front of The Vaccines surprise gig.

The Kooks

Having been a fan of The Kooks for years, when I first got the chance to see them, I was stoked. And for some reason never expected to see them again. But with the release of their new album, 'Listen', the boys are touring (almost) everywhere and of course I wasn't going to miss it.

Also, these boys must know someone who knows a thing or two about lighting, because they sure do put on a good show (just as good here). Not just in the lighting department though. They also know how to make that music and make those people dance. It was such a wicked fun time and if you're given the chance to see them, don't hesitate.

(ps, these photos are from November 2014 & taken on my iPhone, I'm pretty efficient and speedy with my posts)

TheKooks.com 

Catfish & The Bottlemen

I was devastated when I thought I wasn't going to be around for this show, so after plans changed and I realised I would be here for these guys I was straight onto getting a ticket and far out these boys were fabulous!

By sight they remind me a little bit of the Ramones, which is fun right. They've since toured Australia with The Kooks and have sold out 2 shows at the O2 in Brixton, heck yes.
Check them out for sure CATFISH & THE BOTTLEMEN
It was a nice challenge to shoot this gig, given it was my first with my SLR, but they're red lighting made it more so. Life is a learning curve though. 

Andrew Combs

I was oh so happy when my friend suggested this gig. It was so brilliantly Nashville like I didn't even realise I was still in Brighton. It was a sweet gig, in a nice little venue I'd never been to at the Prince Albert. 

He's got a voice I tell you, a flippen good one. And a nice face. Check him out yo. He's also just released a new album, so lucky you. 

ANDREWCOMBSMUSIC (DOT) COM