The Young Knives, The Grates

I don't know what it is but every time I go to the Astoria I see Northern lads with a debut album and lashings of banter. First the 22-20s (disappointing, less banter), then the Futureheads (excellent), now the Young Knives (as good with more texture to their sound, more room to grow and a science nerd bassist callled the House of Lords).

It was awesome. Support came from Australian trio The Grates, with lead singer Patience Hodgson - a rough-around-edges KarenO-a-like - pogoing across the stage, howling like a dog, smothering boys in her white tulle skirt and swirling a yellow ribbon. While still managing to belt out promising stuff. A suitable warm-up for The Young Knives who were spectacular, opening with cracker Part Timer. I may have been a bit delirious with fever, but with all the Strokes and Pixies influences, the throbbing mosh pit and the charged performances (a big night for both bands) it was enough to get a bit carried away on.





Venue: Astoria
Band websites: The Young Knives, The Grates
Myspace: The Young Knives (myspace), The Grates (myspace)
Pitchfork reviews:
Voices of Animals and Men (The Young Knives)
Gravity Won't Get You High (The Grates)