Turning It Up To Eleven

There aren't many times I'm inspired to come home immediately from a gig and turn on my pc with writing a review firmly set in mind. Especially at midnight, when I should, really, be drinking more. It also isn't very often that I am somewhat acquainted with the band, though this time, I'm happy to say that they at least know who I am. And that's a start, at least; we've all got to start somewhere, huh?

"The Piranha Tank" is the brain-child of Pet Piranha Records, a label inspired by likes of Organart.com and Chemikal Underground and aiming to be one of Scotland's most exciting and hard working record labels / zines with a nose for discovering and helping new bands and artists. Originally set up to release records by Dundee rock band Mercury Tilt Switch, the label has expanded to help otherwise ignored Scottish bands release records, gain exposure and tour, including Dundee band, Alamos. Now, "The Piranha Tank" is once a month started tonight, Thursday 3rd August at Satchmo's Basement in Dundee. The idea is we take over the basement (which has a bar) and we play whatever we want from Tool to Mogwai, Mclusky to Refused. There will also be an unadvertised band playing, ever month and it's from 9pm to midnight. People can then go to 'Felt' at The Reading Rooms if they wish. Alamos were tonight’s unadvertised band, though the air this week was rife with the rumour of them playing and the crowd was drawn like moths to the candle light.

Alamos, on form, are peerless. There's no doubting that, it's just plain fact. And on most performances, they are beyond expectations. Like Muse, the Brothers Keiller and Fritz, back on bass after his departure some many moons ago, Alamos just keep getting better with each passing show. And this is saying something, as due to my unacceptable lack of going out as a result of 'cut funding', my appearances at gigs are few and far between. All to change, I might add. Bringing out some true Mclusky-come-Shellac vocals and riffs, the threesome turned it all the way up to eleven, causing vibrations that probably created some severe internal haemorrhaging.

Playing favourites such as Kill-Baby-Kill, Small Ships and Polemics, all from the debut self-titled album, I found myself somewhat inspired to jump up on stage and join in with the brilliance of the band that I've been a fan of since their beginnings, back in the day and under a different name. Though, to be fair, comparing the modern Alamos to their past selves, Yardstick, just isn't worth it; there is no competition. The immaturity in the writing and style is gone, replaced with a seemingly inexhaustible supply of strength and insightful writing, the bass lines in particular sending some shivers up your spines as you're reminded that you're watching a local band play in a basement instead of the enormously popular group playing an equally enormous gig, like they should be.

One thing I've always thought Alamos lacked though, was a touch of humour. I've always felt that the boys were a tad too serious during play and outside of the gig-time too, but now, with the much anticipated return of Fritz, the fun's back. Supplying the crowd, such as it was, with witty remarks and running commentary, the bass-thundering-machine that he is still knows how to separate the concentration that comes with great playing with the banter in-between songs and sets. A welcome return to a winning combination, in my opinion.

This 'party' happens but once a month, but get yourselves down to Satchmos Basement next month (keep your eye on the forum for the date) and see it all for yourself. Again, as ever, the band for September's party will be un-advertised, so it'll be a 'Surprise! ... Lame!"

Don't forget to visit the links page and check these bands out for yourselves!

M_x <3