Following a sellout first gig at the same venue the Love Music Hate Racism team curated another sellout show. This one was headlined by York band Strip who were supported by two other fabulous bands from the city; The Bricks and Some Lions. Love Music Hate Racism gigs are built from a committed passion to the cause and the knowledge music is universal. This gig had a strong punk theme like the first show and the densely packed crowd loved it. It was mosh heaven as most of the punters threw themselves at each other, leapt up and down to almost every note, screamed themselves hoarse at every song and probably sweated enough to flood the venue.
Some Lions, the youngest band on the bill took the stage first. They exploded into action and never slowed their pace once. They have only played a handful of gigs so far but their energy, enthusiasm and controlled and confident arrogance meant that they performed as if it was a headline gig for them. While thy play a lot of covers they have an ability that suggests they will soon be relying on their own material for future shows. A highlight for crowd participation with raucous singing, shouting and dancing was the cover of Rage Against The Machine’s “Killing In The Name Of”. This band has a bright and hopefully long journey ahead of them.
It was the Bricks who had the middle slot. Their sound is post punk with added darker shades of goth. The energy of magnificent front woman Gemma knows no bounds she is a force of nature. Her marvelously manic performance captured the audience, many of whom may not have seen the band before. The band were tight as hell and Gemma’s voice evoked Poly Styrene and Lene Lovich at their peak.
Headliners Strip are overflowing with fiery effervescent metal and punk energy. Their songs are towering, powerful, explosive and full of hard edged riffs that invite maniacal moshing from the audience. Front woman Bella never lets up in a powerful performance that showcases her passion, anger and love of her music. She made a few forays herself into the middle of the mosh circle. This was a perfect set of songs, the originals get better and better. But the standout was a cover of Green Day’s “American Idiot” in which they changed some of the lyrics to portray a much supported hatred of Reform UK. Who knew that this song would be even more relevant years since its first release. Strip make the song their own. You need to experience Strip live!
Love Music Hate Racism (LMHR) uses the energy and vibrancy of the grass roots music scene to promote unity and celebrate diversity through education and events. Their message is simple; there is more that unites us than divides us; and nothing demonstrates this more than music. Whatever the genre, music is living testimony to the fact that cultures can and do mix. Music has the power to unite, to give strength and to effect positive social change. Racism, on the other hand, weakens us; it creates barriers and turns friends and neighbours against one another. Sadly, racism is on the rise in the UK and internationally. LMHR believe that if we all work together, we can harness the power of music to stop this destructive force in its tracks. Their aim is to use the power of music to bring together individuals and communities in a beautiful resistance against bigotry and hatred. Rock on and continue to fight racism and fascism!
Apologies I couldn’t find any videos from the Bricks or Strip!
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