Blues
Pills’ popularity has soared over the past year, a band with a relatively small
discography (2 EP’s, a full length and a live album) under their belts; they
have captured an audience with their funky fresh take on blues rock. With so
much success early on in their career, living up to the expectation for their
second album could prove tough; however judging by the musical talent they have
already showcased, I have every faith. From their first EP ‘Bliss’ I developed
an insatiable addiction to Blues Pills, tonight that addiction is satisfied
with a dose of the Sweden based quartet playing live in Manchester.
Blues
Pills have a noticeable mass appeal, the crowd tonight varying in age and from
what I can gauge from the array of band shirts, musical taste also. From Pink
Floyd and Led Zeppelin fans all the way to Cannibal Corpse, its evident this is
an undeniably likeable band offering something for everyone, and it’s easy to
see why. Coming on stage with real energy and vigor, they kick things off with ‘High
Class Woman’ the opening track off their self-titled album. The rumbling groovy
bass lines along with phenomenal bluesy guitar work from Dorian Sorriaux, provides
the perfect accompaniment to Elin Larsson’s powerhouse vocals. Blues Pills have
crafted a vintage style of music but with a fresh modern twist that doesn’t
replicate bands of their ilk, they play effortlessly tonight with ease and confidence,
consequently a feel good atmosphere circulates around the room (doesn’t hurt
that it’s a Friday night either!)
Their
biggest hit, ‘Devil Man’ is met to a rapturous reception as Larsson’s vocals
truly shine. Not to detract from the other band members who are all exceedingly
talented, the spotlight is on Larsson, whose rich soulful vocals and
enrapturing stage presence is utterly captivating. Making jangling a tambourine
look extremely cool, it’s almost impossible to pay attention to anything else
but her. Predominantly playing songs
from the ‘Blues Pills’ album, the crowd is familiar with the majority of their
set, ‘Ain’t No Change’ and ‘River’ go down particularly well. My personal
favorite ‘Little Sun’ is played in the encore, emotional, powerful and downright
soulful; it’s a spellbinding conclusion.
Blues
Pills brought their tremendous records to life tonight, a high energy enchanting
performance that left the crowd in high spirits and ready to continue their
Friday night festivities elsewhere.
Words by: Heather Blewett
