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Gig Review
Screaming Tea Party/ The Bridport Dagger Brixton, Windmill
Article written by
Ged M - Mar 8, 2009
Screaming Tea Party
Screaming Tea Party’s name encapsulates the tensions they bring together in their songs, to such great effect: on the one hand, there’s the Sonic Youth-inspired dirty metallic guitar riffs cranked out by guitarist Niiyan and his array of effects pedals; on the other hand, there are the bright bubblegum “oh oh oh” choruses added by singer/bassist Koichi and drummer Nell. They’re like the Ramones in their pop days, satisfyingly heavy but catchy too; check the way they switch from crunching rock chords into sweet and moreish rhythms on ‘I’d Rather Be Stuck On The Stair Rail’ or the catchy punk-pop of the magnificent ‘Today is the Day’. Visually they always satisfy too, from Niiyan’s anti-globalisation protester look to the regular chaotic ending with Niiyan and Koichi rolling on the floor, forcing brute noises from their instruments. We voted them best live band of 2008 in the end of year poll – this year, there’s no contest.
The Bridport Dagger
The Bridport Dagger have teased and gelled hairstyles and a sound to match: a swamp-rock rockabilly rumble, with primeval drumming. It’s visceral and effective, though only for short periods, and the overall feel is unremittingly dark and serious. They try and experiment with the sound, which is less easy with only three band members, two of whom play guitar, but it’s a sensible move. Their sound is developing into something dangerously catchy since their debut single; maybe a Kylie cover would help.