Gig Of The Week – Vivian Girls – Brixton Windmill

Brooklyn’s Vivian Girls have had a whirlwind 2008. Recently named in Rough Trade’s 50 albums of 2008 (#9, no less), the band follows support slots with Deerhunter, Fucked Up and Love is All over in the States with a couple of shows here in London. The first is the peach, set in the dark, cramped surroundings of Brixton’s tiny Windmill venue. The sound is resolutely lo-fi, with hints of Sarah Records influence along with classic girl group vs Jesus And Mary Chain noise. So ignore the glitzy XFM bash up the road at the Academy and go and head for Brooklyn in Brixton.

You can stream the entire debut album over at Last.fm

Where Do You Run To (mp3)

Photo: Mercurialn

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Gig Of The Week: Mencap Music’s Little Noise Sessions

Nothing like a good cause to stir bands into action, and this week sees several take the stage to raise funds and awareness for leading mental health charity Mencap. There’s some big names; Stereophonics, Kasabian, Keane amongst the varied line-up. They do seem a bit short of ‘wow’ factor this year after previous sessions had seen the likes of U2 and Noel Gallagher playing sets.

Wednesday’s offering looks the toast of the bunch with Biffy Clyro, Friendly Fires and Frank Turner making up probably the least-known bill of all the sessions. Get along if you can, most of the sessions are sold out but tickets for some of the lesser lights are still available.

Tickets

Biffy Clyro – Now I’m Everyone
Friendly Fires – Photobooth
Frank Turner – Vital Signs

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