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Heaven's Basement, Dear Superstar, New Device @ Camden Underworld, London |
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Heaven's Basement
Dear Superstar
New Device
@
Camden Underworld, London
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Opening up tonight’s proceedings are New Device. Musically, as well as in terms of stage presence, they are maturing with age, and they are a perfect addition to tonight’s bill. They go a lot further than merely reliving the days of beer-soaked denim and leather, rocking out to their obvious influences such as Guns And Roses, and it was well worth trawling through the snow to see these youngsters on top form.
Dear Superstar, for all their emo-esque looks and tendencies, seem to get the crowd in the mood for some catchy hooks and memorable tunes. Whilst some are unmoved by their over-polished radio friendly croons, those with perhaps more than a little soft spot for My Chemical Romance are right at home, whilst some Maiden-like melodies go some way to pleasing the doubtful.
Heaven’s Basement are the main event, and as always they don't fail to disappoint with their energetic brand of alcohol-fuelled rock ‘n’ roll, which lays waste to an appreciative Underworld. You can't help but get the impression that although the guys have been around under various incarnations, including Hurricane Party and Roadstar, the British hard rockers have never looked so together and happy to play, which assists such musical statements as ‘Tear Your Heart Out’ and ‘Misunderstood’ go down a storm. Sid Glover’s lead riffs could stand quite proudly alongside the likes of Slash and co.,and it is a wonder they continue to be denied of the recognition they deserve. The only gripe was the questionable inclusion of a few too many ballad-y songs in a row towards the middle of the set, which killed the momentum somewhat. Some new songs, as well as a song with guitarist Johnny Rocker taking the microphone temporarily from Richie Heavanz, soon made up for it, and polishing off a stellar set with ‘Executioner’s Day’ . It was hard to feel the cold after such a red hot night of rock and roll, and all three bands are certainly destined to be massive. |
Review by James Young
Photography by Asif Salam
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Gig Reviews 
