with Loz Campbell and Skam
Reviewed by Trevor Locke
Tonight we were at the Soundhouse for the last ever gig of Leicester band Theia.
In a very full house, the opening act was a band called Loz Campbell that hailed from West Yorkshire. Plenty of full-on beats and punchy rhythms accompanied by fulsome drums and cymbals. Their music was described as a ‘modern take on alternative rock with high energy …” which is a fair description, I would say. The set certainly caused a stir in the audience.
Skam is one of Leicester’s longest-serving bands. Lead singer Steve Hill’s vocals are very recognisable. I call it ‘classic rock.’ This is a band I have seen playing on very big stages to massive audiences. Tonight, their massive music was projected into a small room.
The vocals were interspersed with glittering guitar solos. It was compelling music, just as it always has been. Neal Hill is the band’s star drummer. As was said by Theia’s percussionist, “He kicked the shit out of my drum kit.” He is one of the best I have ever seen in Leicester.
Megawatts of energy pouring from the three musicians as they packed a stadium-level sound into the small venue. This band is legendary and I have been following them for about fifteen years. Their outpouring is relentless and their vibe volcanic. They know how to work a crowd. Decades of experience have made them what they are now. Skam finished with the song, No Lies. See this on YouTube here.
It was a privilege to be in the same room with them. I could say an awful lot more about this but there are numerous reviews of their music on this magazine, for those who want to find out more (click here).
Theia. This musical act first came to our attention in 2013. Kevin Gaughan remembers seeing them there on the main stage of the Western Park Festival (click here for the review).
Tonight, Theia played their last-ever gig as a band called Theia. It is possible that the musicians might well continue in music going forward.
Two musicians were on stage. Kyle Lamley, guitarist and vocalist and Ash Lamley, drums.
Masters of alternative rock. This band that has had a long association with Skam. Their sounds have a lot in common. Again, no shortage of rhythms and beats here. Plenty of onstage presence and interaction with the audience, this was a performance that had verve and momentum.
As was said from the stage, “This is the farewell.” After fifteen years.
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