Doncaster Live Festival, Market Square, July 20

As a few blurry eyed band members stumble onto the stage the marketplace this morning is unsurprisingly subdued.

It’s a bit of a shock to the system to then discover Urchin Child are not only hyperactive but also topless. In a usual gig environment this would never stray from the norm yet at 3pm on a chilly afternoon the group appear overly clichéd and a little desperate. Awash with a mass of curly hair, screeching guitar solos and rising vocals this is a band with Led Zeppelin adorning their bedroom walls- somehow a group of 17-year-olds have managed to sound at least 50.

With a gaggle of underage kids it’s unsure how Sugarcubed will be received today- however it may be the best show the group have played in years. Standing at a safe distance, the music suddenly reveals itself allowing the listener to hear more than a wash of distortion. As a circle pit ensues it shows Sugarcubed definitely still have an audience in Doncaster.

Sugarcubed aren’t the only group enhanced by the outdoor stage. While Tea and Biscuits go completely unnoticed The Thieves experience a boost from their performance the previous night. With their chirpy indie, they’re in danger of becoming a replica of previous outfits, yet aside from a clueless bassist they bring a little joy to the day.

The event then takes an uphill slant as Little Thoughts and Nena Kubu provide an interesting blend of indie electro. While Little Thoughts remain quietly alert Nena Kubu are prepared to tell the whole town about their performance, even going so far as to print their lyrics to song ‘Batman’ and hand them around the audience.

Usually Ash Static is able to deliver a slice of hardcore dance, however in full daylight with an audience of young emo kids, his talent is somehow lost. The introduction of a live drummer gives the set a new level, yet as a select group slowly warm to the set the remainder of the crowd miss the point.
Darren Bell is another who suffers at the expense of the stage times having to follow the hardcore Revenance onto the stage. Luckily the singer is the most charming man to play all weekend and quickly melts away any crowd member grievances. With his sweet Justin Timberlake induced tunes he finally brings the weekend to an end with a twee rendition of Rihanna’s ‘Umbrella’ and for once, it’s not raining.

Photos: Melissa (Urchin Child photo by Ste Keeton)