McCrei at the Cavern in Liverpool as part of the 2015 I.P.O. Photograph by Ian D. Hall.

Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *

They say there is no greater bond than that between two sisters. Others might disagree and point to other just as valuable relationships on which are just as loving and can be just as destructive when the whim of necessity rears its head. However, one cannot argue with the closeness that two sisters will have, especially when working together on stage in close proximity and sharing the experiences of their lives through music.

For London pair Leanne and Shannon McCree and their band McCrei that bond almost jumps off the stage at The Cavern and runs through the audience with pent up tranquillity of spirit but with urge to shed off the cloak of contentment and bustle and cause a sense of wonderful commotion in the feelings of anyone standing in the way of harmony and synchronisation.

Commotion, many a man can arguably attest to the sense of being flattened and bulldozed when they try to come between the affection of two sisters. Commotion is perhaps too kind a word for the retribution handed out but turmoil and despair too unfriendly, for McCrei are anything but unfriendly, they radiate an impression of kindness, a sensation of acute awareness of what they are bringing to the musical table, a significant contribution to the world of pop that is theirs for the taking all wrapped up in a voice that could serenade you in comfort one minute and cause the fury of the Gods the next.; a voice that is the epitome of commotion, sweet wonderful tumultuous depth of character and desire.

The songs on offer to the Sunday afternoon crowd at The Cavern were pleasant, well delivered and gutsy, they played with commotion, stirred in havoc and had the bass line that was well proportioned and even. Tracks such as I’m Missing You, Rainman, All Together Now and the new single out in June, Show Me, fuelled desire and intrigue, the potent love child of heart stopping commotion, the pinnacle of a great performance.

London may be the epicentre of U.K. politics for now but its music contribution to the four countries has been woefully short over the last 20 years, McCrei have injected some much needed attention to that lack of serious involvement.

One to watch out for in the coming 12 months!

Ian D. Hall