Two bands, two new albums about to drop. Although tonight’s show marks the release of Sligo combo Oddsocks Revival’s It’s Time support act The Hot Sprockets are on the verge of unleashing their similarly impressive debut Honey Skippin’. And the response that greets both acts reflects the excitement of the occasion.
The Dublin outfit’s performance is mostly culled from the new Boz Boorer collection. It is a country/blues rock affair, its roots firmly in a bygone era. And yet it succeeds in sounding remarkably fresh.
Highlights include infectious single ‘Cruisin’’ which charms with its rock swagger, harmonica and off-kilter drums, live favourite ‘Sleep Shake’ and the sultry buoyant blues of ‘Honey Skippin’’ that conjures images of Mick n Keef living large in ’60s Landahn. Larvely!
Oddsocks Revival ventures on stage next, with a democratic approach to vocals. Each member of the blues rock quartet takes the reins on singing duties.
Finely honed musicianship and expertly-crafted song structures are the order of the day, the ease with which the players switch tempo, key and texture is remarkable. However, the jewel in the crown is the eye-wateringly talented lead guitarist Anthony Mannion whose playing constitutes the magic dust in this arresting sonic brew.
The set shifts seamlessly from the lilting RnB of ‘I’m Just Playin’ to the sublime vocal harmonies of ‘Chasin The Dollar’ to the slick hard rock stylings of ‘Hangin Tough’.
Whitesnake cover ‘Ready and Willin’’ brings additional fun to proceedings and at the end of the night a rousing ‘Jeanie Mac’ rounds off events in spectacular fashion.
Looks like It’s Time for the Sligo gang to get some long overdue recognition.