Lennons is always an interesting venue for any band to play. The concoction of the hideously drunk party goers and the slightly less intoxicated fans can create a potentially dangerous mix for any band. Shy Nature handled this odd audience well, speeding through song after song with practiced efficiency and co-ordination. Their recorded music does not live up to anything near their live performances, taking on a harder rock edge on stage.
The Australian band The Creases performed a stellar support set. Having only formed around 6 months ago, the band have already supported bands on three tours, from The Jungle Giants and Shy Nature to Philadelphia Grand Jury and recently announcing a set at the legendary SXSW in America. As this was their first UK tour nerves would have been expected, but the band kept their cool and were professional. They seamlessly ran through song to song, even when the slightly bewildered drunk audience members just stood there dazed at the sudden lack of dance floor space.
With few aesthetics and frilly light demonstrations available in Lennons, it all comes down to the quality of the band and their musical ability. Shy Nature seamlessly fitted in to their surrounding, effortlessly and with confidence. Their set was enthusiastic and enjoyable to watch, the band appeared to be having a good time, which definitely translated out into the audience. The stand out tracks from their live set for me were ‘Sinking Ship’ and their recently released single ‘Lie Back‘. Both upbeat and uptempo, the band raced from track to track demonstrating their musical talent and comfort with the stage environment.
The North London four-piece met in late 2012, gaining fast fame and recognition from numerous media sources, from the BBC to DIY magazine. Having supported numerous other bands on larger tours, such as the likes of The Breeders and Splashh, their own headline tour was something to keep in their memories for along time. The band remain true to the idea of constant touring and lining up more releases to keep fans hot on their toes and waiting with bated breath.
The sets at Lennons are short, keeping the blend of a club atmosphere and live performance venue in balance and giving bands, such as Shy Nature, who are relatively new to the music scene and with a limited discography, a limited window to make an impression on the audience. To me, Shy Nature left a mark, or at least planted their name into the minds of the party goers, which is to me an achievement in itself for less well known artists.
