A fiery evening of ambient pop and alt rock orchestrated by Oliver Hill and Phil Kyle (of The Irongiant Presents and Magnum Opus Tattoo) could not be dampened by the bleak weather. Opening acts Al Ritchie and The DuBarry’s handled the humidity, drying us off nicely for the nights bill-toppers Planes.
Once dry to the touch, a heavily inked Steve Forrest took to centre stage voicing his appreciation for the presence of so many on what was, a miserable Monday beyond the mural of The Prince Albert. Forrest, who since 2008 was known for being the drummer of Placebo, upped his drum sticks earlier this year and left the ‘Every You, Every Me’ hit band to pursue his own passage in music fronting this fantastic five piece.
Looking quite at home on vocals and rhythm guitar, Forrest lead the band of Ed Harris on drums, Dan Sayer on bass, Char O’ Lette on violin/keys and Ted Brunning on lead guitar in such a magnetic manner. Conjuring up a harmonious storm, Forrest provoked and pulled that extra percent of hunger out of each member. This band clearly enjoy playing together as much as we enjoyed watching them.
As we soon embark on a new year (like it or not), Planes performed a mix of the old and the new from releases ‘Planes Debut’ and ‘Hotfoot’ to a crowd of primarily first time flyers, who where left asking, “When’s the next flight?’. My answer, it won’t be long. I expect there’ll be another Brighton show from the band whilst they prepare for a gig at The Borderline, London in December. One to add to the Christmas Wish list.
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Words by Amy Forrester, Eyes and Ears Brighton
Images by Rosie Powell Freelance
