Seeing as most things these days cost more than a fiver (apart from a Freddo – I think we’re still safe for a few years), paying five pounds to see five bands at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds sounds like a pretty good deal.
With a lineup consisting of The Fifths, Lunar Echoes, Alter The Sky, Lost Lungs and Connor Adams, I was definitely in for a treat. All local bands – the furthest being primarily from Cambridge – I was joining a crowd of friends, family and fans excited to see some of their own performing at this award-winning venue.
First up were The Fifths. All members are just 17 years old, but don’t let their ages fool you. These four guys were electric on stage, with a musical energy befitting a much more experienced group. It’s no surprise, however, that The Fifths’ sound is more cultivated than their IDs let on – with heavyweight influences such as The Arctic Monkeys, The Clash and Bloc Party, it’s easy to develop a seasoned style.
Cambridge/London based band Lunar Echoes really caught my eye at this gig. I could see myself becoming addicted to their intoxicating blend of synth and rock. With singer Ronnie’s powerful, pitch perfect vocals leading the set, Lunar Echoes’ distinct style and sound made a real impact on stage.
Alter the Sky is one band which had been on my radar for a while, so it was a pleasure to watch them perform at The Apex. Their hard rock sound is driven by strong guitars and reflects their influences – Black Stone Cherry, Alter Bridge, and the Wildhearts – without sounding too familiar. If you love watching a set with the confidence, humour and ability that could only exude from a band with this much experience, Alter the Sky is highly recommended.
Reformed for the first time in three years, Lost Lungs played as if they had never been apart. The five piece writes the kind of grungy indie rock that wouldn’t have been out of place on my MP3 player as a teenager – so if you’re partial to a bit of reminiscing, Lost Lungs’ most recent EP Subterranean Homesick Hipster is bound to provoke some memories.
We recently reviewed Connor Adams’ dynamic gig at Jerwood Dance House, and this performance was no different. Connor’s resonant vocals filled the room, accompanied by driving rhythms to get the crowd on our feet – and keep us there. Joining him once again were Nic Keeble on lead, Bronwyn Cooper on keys, Ben Brennan on drums and Alex Lenton on bass. Together the group performed a set of emotional, melodic and undoubtedly singalongable tracks to round off the night.
Last Updated on March 3, 2023
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