Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * * *
The Kazimier could not have anticipated what lay in store. Elements of Gypsy Jazz and Swing backed by Latin beats with a thundering bass, Ska influenced guitar, Samba and Mariachi style trumpeting and what can only be describes as shredding violin combined to produce an awe inspiring sound that shook the rafters and the audience in equal measure. Molotov Jukebox’s long awaited L.P. Carnival Flower was released in the last week and if the second gig following the release at Liverpool’s Kazimier was anything to go by it will see the band soar to the heights they truly deserve. The album speaks for itself but where Molotov Jukebox shines is in the vibrant and electric energy they bring to their live performance ensuring fans will leave the venue short of breath and grinning from ear to ear.
Opening with the sultry sexfoot the energy built up until the frenetic combination of Gypsy Funeral and Trying brought the gig to a crashing climax to the audience’s collective dismay that it was all over so soon. The setlist included favourites from their two previous E.P.s as well as material from Carnival Flower. Standouts included the sublime Laid to Rest, a classic swing number that will get anyone hooked on the band with just one listen, who knew it could be so improved with the addition of a washboard? Don’t Panic from the E.P. Bang a song that demands uncontrollable dancing along with Double Dare that can only be described as lovely in every way. Newer standouts included House fire, a real crowd pleaser with its stomping rhythm and excellent vocal performances as well as Tropical Badboy bringing the Brazilian beat to rainy Liverpool in unmatchable style, as well as the breath-taking lead single Neon Lights.
The strength of Molotov Jukebox is the seamless nature of the group. No-one member dominates or succumbs to the others, their tight and energetic sound would be impossible to achieve without their level of synchronicity. The audience is simultaneously enthralled by Natalia Tena’s silken vocals and captivating accordion playing, hypnotized by Sam Apley’s Violin work, knocked sideways by Angus Moncrieff’s blaring trumpet melodies and shaken to the core by the combined efforts of the Rhythm section. Adam Burke’s guitar playing is fluid and subtle and compliments Tom Wilson’s loud and punchy bass riffs perfectly. Both players are backed up by a new percussion duo that gives the beat an added flair that only compliments the sound. Coupled with the group’s infectious optimism, genuine passion and good humour that runs through all their music the effect of listening to their recordings is amplified to an extreme degree. To call them “feel-good” would understate the effect that Molotov Jukebox can have on your mood.
The bottom line is this; Gyp-Step is a genre blend unlike anything you have ever heard and Molotov Jukebox is an incredible, melodic and rhythmic experience that will rank among the top gigs of your year, guaranteed. You owe it to yourself to see this band in all its glory.
Chris Brook.