Unfortunately, Tom Vek's set was part of an NME Club Night that opened at 11pm. This meant that the crowd were unbelievably drunk, indier-than-thou students with their "cool" asymmetric hair styles. It also meant all they wanted to do was drink more and do the conga to Kasabian.

However, this didn't put Tom Vek off as he delivered a fantastic set worthy of all the hype he has recently received. You may have heard of him already, after all he has been talked about by the British press recently who have lavished buzz after buzz word upon him. But, never fear, this is isn't a new saviour for rock 'n' roll (…again) nor some kind of new "something" revival and thankfully, it isn't a new Libertines. Tom Vek is a one-man band turned four-man band for the live circuit. And what a difference it makes.

Having heard his debut single "If You Want" and immediately become addicted to some of the finest slap bass this reviewer has heard for a long time, seeing Tom Vek live was something to look forward to. The added musicians make a chunkier and weightier sound and improve songs tenfold. Having a live drummer on "CC (You Set The Fire In Me)" just adds such a full and lustrous sound whilst songs from the debut album (out in March) such as "I 'Aint Saying My Goodbyes" are wonderfully funky dance songs.

"Nothing But Green Lights" sees Tom Vek take to the microphone, sans instruments, as he delivers a Talking Heads style vocal range and dance moves (think "Once In A Lifetime" video). A special note must also be made to the fantastically talented drummer who really brought these songs to life. Also, hearing a song performed with three bass guitars and drums was really something.

The above-mentioned crowd barely took any notice and those that did seemed confused. It is their loss as when this reviewer left the venue she was filled with the need and anticipation of seeing Mr. Tom Vek perform again very soon.

-Rebeckah Pearce

Tom Vek
Brighton Concorde 2
21 January 2005
www.tomvek.tv

Photo by Diana Gomez

More Music Features

Talk Back
e-mail the chief

Like this article?
e-mail it to a friend!