EofE for such a new band, and with a relatively young age exude confidence as they hit the stage tonight at Cardiff’s Motorpoint Arena supporting McBusted on their UK tour. Having met them earlier for a chat, they were not the least bit nervous or anxious about going out in front of 5000 people. Their appeal lies in their ability to write crossover rock anthems for a wide audience, influences include Thirty Seconds To Mars and You Me At Six.
As they take their positions it’s Dan Bremner (Guitar/Vocals) who plays the familiar opening riff from Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” as they quite literally begin to steam roll their way into the audiences consciousness. Cleverly (as becomes obvious when Luke’s Bass kicks in) they have created a mash-up with Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean”. This was a creative and attention grabbing way to introduce themselves to the crowd.
They are tight and pack a punch on stage, so much so that an arena stage seems like a natural habitat for them. Tom (Vocals) has a frenetic on-stage presence as he makes use of every square inch. Luke meanwhile reminds me of a younger Gene Simmons as he oozes rock n roll cool. Without pause, they charge into “Kiss Me Like You Mean It” a riff-laden anthem of a song. It’s Tom’s searing vocals and Dan’s expert command of his guitar that elevates this song live. Things enter slightly different territory on their third song of the night “Piece of You” . Although retaining their rock edge, this is more of a contemplative side to the band, as they slow the pace somewhat.
They end their brief set with new single “Lust” which is out this week. This is their strongest song of the night and sees Tom interacting with the crowd, inviting them to sing along. With Nicky’s driving percussion setting the pace against Dan’s charging licks, it’s a monster of a song live.
They were heavier live than I had anticipated, but were able to maintain their melodic, anthemic side. Its evident they know what to do with a bass, guitar, drums and microphone in their hands, and have the songs and charisma to connect.
