This Is Mansfield

Back at the Old Library and “Mansfield Live” shows how it should be done. “Twisting the rules and breaking things up is what we're about” says organizer Craig Dalziel. “Tonight they get twisted folk, be-bop, rap and rock 'n' Roll with an independent flavour. All this held together by the funniest man in town and all for three quid.” His enthusiasm burns “this is a great little venue in the middle of town with plenty of space for the bands to get off in. PA, lights, camera, action and a cheep bar – if this isn't what your after then tell me; what exactly do you want?”

Host, Liam Butler wades in with heavy insult at a heckler's exposition on his girth and takes control of the reins. Having cut his teeth in the harsh Black Country comedy circuit and student union gong shows he returns home for the first time and leaves with the audience safely in his pocket.

Open mike stalker and solo-serenader Phil Ashmore backs lyrical rhapsodist Dap-C who spits out rhyme and reason akin to Plan B. Bitter/sweet poetry uncover tales from the darker side of the tracks as Ashmore thwacks out percussive guitar beats.

Liam Pilmore plays a chilled-out surf vibe akin to the Mouldy Peaches. Be less apologetic and play it for real; get your feet wet and see how it feels to ride the wave.

The Tastebuds are a 5-piece beat combo who shine a light. Catchy rhythms, bouncy beats, sing-along choruses and tight harmonies. The Eagles are getting it on with The Police whilst drinking from the same pot as The Beach Boys. The front man is Kurt Cobain in Cuban heals; in top hat and feathers he could be the love child of David Bowie.
“Hold the candle closer whilst I shave the chickens lips”. Twisted lyrics and contorted synths make me think of the B-52s partying to the deeper groove of The Stranglers. “Hold that candle closer whilst I set this thing on fire” and they drop into a loose skank as the lead vocals switch - all of a sudden Ray Davis has taken control of the mike.

Headliner Damon Downs' four piece reminds me of Bruce Springsteen and the lesser rock of Bryan Adams. If they want to play a big-band style they could take on-board the Asbury Dukes as their driving brass would make them a spunge cake worth bringing out at partys.

www.myspace.com/theoldlibrary,.
www.myspace.com/butterscomedy
www.myspace.com/dapc
www.myspace.com/lightasmallfire
www.myspace.com/dsdowns