GIG REVIEW / LIFE @ SOUTHSIDE, LINCOLN

Anybody paying attention may know that this past week has been Independent Venue week, where for seven straight days the focus and celebration of live music and entertainment looks towards the more grass roots, independent locations that constantly act as the heart of the live music arena. This tradition has been growing in strength since its inception in 2014 and Lincoln, of course, is always happy to join the celebrations as it boasts a litany of smaller, homegrown venues that thrive on community, passion and the nurturing of local talent.

The past weekend has seen several events through multiple sites, but it was kicked off in high fashion at Southside, Lincoln with post-punk, alternative five piece Life. Originating in Hull and parts of Lincolnshire, Life have always celebrated a DIY attitude, thriving off of their own independence and determination to remain in control of their own sound, their own path and their own legacy. With three LP releases and another being worked on, they're unique and creative sound and style of performance forces you to stop and take notice, anytime they're around.

The evening was introduced by another homegrown name, in Experimental Sonic Machines, who's strangely hypnotic appearance and psychedelic presentation is completely derived from unconventionally designed, self made instruments and costumes, designed to create a memorable experience on every occasion.

Following Experimental Sonic Machines, the stage belonged to another local, homegrown act in Serial Chiller. Considering their family ties to Life, it's not a surprise that their sound is somewhat similar, but with a smoother, surf style edge, lending their style more to pop punk than post punk. They're a lot of fun but whilst appearing effortless and nonchalant in their approach. Serial Chiller also features an accomplished rhythm section, that despite being the backdrop to a strong front man, the drummer provides vocals on occasion which will always be an exciting element, and the bass lines are are impossible to ignore, stealing your attention at some point during every song of the set.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-V0yoAvNuUc

Life appeared to finish off the night in huge fashion, and despite it being some time since they played in Lincoln, you could tell it was a great feeling to be home. Lead singer Mez is even more of a lunatic than I remember and completely intense and unhinged, providing a level of performance that feels dangerous and spontaneous, like anything could happen at any minute. Even with trips into the crowd with a live microphone, everybody moves out of his way and clears a path for a power house who's been growing constantly as a frontman for well over a decade. The whole band stand out and bring a unique element to the performance. Mick on guitar is energetic but focused, thrashing his guitar around and embracing the aggression of tracks like 'Popular Music', 'Euromillions' & 'Excites Me' with specific accuracy for someone so feral. A real highlight for me is always seeing someone enjoy performing and Lydia on bass is not only brilliant at what she does but also, full of smiles and just looks like she's having the best time ever.. which is incredibly infectious.

They're aggressive whilst being poetic, they're political but whilst remaining frantic and insane but more importantly on Independent Venue week, they're home grown, they're one of us and they're showing us all what can be achieved if you put in the work and keep doing it your way.

Keep up with what's going on at Southside, Lincoln by visiting their website and social media and head to Spotify to check out more from Life

Article by Stuart Green