Noizy night the best yet

Review: Martin Stephenson/The Starlets/Larry Guild, The NOIZY Indie Social Club, Croy Miners Welfare, November 26
By The Newsroom
Published 16th Dec 2011, 09:00 BST

AT The Noizy, we had it all: three superb acts, a full house, guest appearances, an impromptu performance, superb banter and most of all, the music – totally awesome, writes CRAIG FIDDLER.

First up was Coatbridge guitar maestro Larry Guild. Opening song, ‘Rising Morning Sun’ was amazing and won the crowd over with its melody and superb lyrics. No backing band, no fancy arrangements, just a man with his guitar, stripped down – all about the music. The guy has some incredible songs in his repertoire and is a genius with his guitar. Other highlights were ‘Bus to Boston’ and ‘Mr’s Hook’s Brook’. A brilliant opening to what was to be a very special night.

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Next was Glasgow band The Starlets. Opening with ‘Marie-Claire’, the band were on top form. Front man Biff Smith showed some neat dance moves, beautiful vocals and all-round breathtaking performance, almost Morrissey-like. Biff was equally supported by Craig on drums, Mark on guitar, Steph on bass and the sublime Caroline Evans on violin. The band was joined on stage by Martin Stephenson whose recent single ‘I’m Your Kinda Guy’ blew the venue’s roof off. They also played new tunes which looks promising for their next album, due for 2012 release.The band finished with new song ‘Tenterhooks’ and left the Croy venue with another impressive performance under their belts.

Then it was the legend that is Martin Stephenson, joined by Chippy on guitar and Richard on the drum box. Martin played most of his biggest hits that he had with the Daintees, highlights being ‘Crocodile Cryer’ and ‘Wholly Humble Heart’. The impromptu performance came from Linda Dempsey who was up dancing and invited to take the mic (well, I think she was invited?) and put on a performance worthy of sharing a stage with Martin Stephenson. Biff also returned the favour and helped with the vocals to the delight of the crowd.

My favourite ‘Noizy’ night so far. The guys have a reputation for bringing the best live music to the area and there wasn’t one person who would disagree with that. THANK YOU.5/5