Underground rock: Dearthworms.
Steve Hunting.
In these politically uncertain and economically turbulent times, running a business has never been more challenging. In the world of grassroots rock ‘n roll there’s the added requirement of not only maintaining a viable company but also having the passion, intensity and musical antennae to ensure you can spot a constant flow of fledgling talent and give the artists the right platform to showcase their work.
Within that ethos lies the need to constantly keep standards high, ensure ears are open to up-and-comers, and provide that critical first step on the ladder of musical career development. So who has that work ethic and that drive and commitment 24/7, 365 days a year?
Gold standard: Precious Metals.
Steve Hunting.
Step forward Mark Riddington and Paul ‘Tufty’ Tuffs, who have excelled themselves for S&M’s iteration of the Tramlines Fringe by putting on more than 30 acts across 3 days at two of the three marvellous gig spaces they’re lucky to look after.
Three-piece Electric Tape Recorder open up early afternoon proceedings in The Basement, their set offering chord rock, slow burning guitar rumbles and glam stomping against a falsetto vocal that’s wonderfully disarming – certainly a band for whom the ‘riff larder’ is never empty.
Moody red lighting and clouds of dense smoke create an off-kilter atmosphere in The Gallery as Taut Angles singer Lee Pearse prowls menacingly around the stage, Exuding confidence, the band evoke a hypnotic psych post-punk guitar mood with driving grooves and an Idles-channelling vibe that has a sense of edginess and tension (check out single ‘Looking Like Jaap Blonk’ on Bandcamp). The sonics are excellent, so it’s no surprise to spot mein host Mark at the sound-desk at the back of the room.
S&M’s decision to have 30 minute sets on a revolving basis (i.e. no awkward gaps to fill) ensures interest levels are constantly maintained. It also probably explains why the blur of a flat cap-bedecked Tufty is forever rushing by to keep events on track.
Can I get a rewind: Electric Tape Recorder.
Steve Hunting.
Precious Metals (formerly Oh Hippo) bring a refreshing pop vibe to the day, including songs about a Zelda-related break-up and references to nature via mushrooms (‘Mycelium’) and insects (‘Bees’). Becky Thomas’s great vocals and wonky synths, coupled with excellent guitars, keep things fresh, and there’s a ‘Wet Leg’ vibe with catchy summer harmonies that lift the mood via songs from 2024 EP Stay Precious.
Sheffield stalwarts Dearthworms channel their organised chaos to high effect, aided and abetted by the front-of-stage prowling and circling of frontman Nick Potter. Drummer Andy Sissions, fresh from playing with Knorke at Delicious Clam the previous night, keeps the engine room boiler ticking along nicely, whilst the band’s Warmduscher-channelling riffs and licks underpin a frantic set-list that includes new song ‘The Chair’.
With great harmonies, jangly and jagged guitars and strong melodies, Strixxen display a confidence in their material that is truly merited, before the beats and groove-heavy funk of Good News bring a party vibe to The Gallery.
Great crowds, knowledgeable musicians and fans alike, plus a genuine appreciation for the platforms provided at S&M mean the future of the Tramlines Fringe is in very safe hands. Next up? Float Along 2025 in September, where Mark and Paul will no doubt ensure the very best of fresh talent are given a warm welcome.