Radio 4

It was going to be interesting to see if Radio 4 could convey their ambitious punky, funky, techno-coated noise in a live setting, seeing as how studio production played such a integral part in the band's latest offering, Gotham!

Big Apple boys took to the stage clad in black button downs, and didn't waste any time in unleashing their arsenal on the house. It was obvious that the group would have to rely more on boiled-down shreddery than quirky programming tweaks – which is precisely what came to pass in their energetic 50 minute set. While the overlapping electronics did provide enhanced atmosphere at points, it was the almighty juice that can only be found in live music that hit the ignition.

Their sound is evocatively punk with moments of Clash-like clout, yet Radio 4's style is a tad more refined (maybe it was just their kempt hair and lack of leather). But a punk pigeonhole doesn't do the band justice as they showed with a versatile assemblage of equipment to wail on, including bongos, maracas, tambourines and various other clankable devices. These accompaniments made catchy catchier and more than a few songs culminated with each member thoroughly abusing their respective apparatuses.

It was during these instrumental orgasms that Radio 4 really delivered the goods, elevating the show above the ordinary and leaving one typically rigid reviewer bobbing along accordingly.