Leith Festival Sessions: St Judes Infirmary @ LE3 @ Ocean Terminal

The most enduring themes are of innovation and eclecticism...

Article by Finbarr Bermingham | 10 Jul 2007
Night is yet to fall as young punks Billy Liar (2/5) take the stage in a deserted Ocean Terminal. Lyrics such as "You must be taking the piss... is this the best that you can do?" see the band unwittingly writing their own headlines. This sweet irony is the only thing to be salvaged from a tuneless set.

And so the night gets underway in earnest with Ardent John (4/5) who on tonight's evidence, coupled with their single releases, are an excellent prospect. Harmonious and melodic throughout, this Mersey Beat tinged four-piece should be on their way to bigger things - catch them playing locally while you can.

Fresh from seeing her father run off and join a cult, Isa and her Filthy Tongues (3/5) crank things up a notch. Isa proves a charismatic lead, jerking about the stage heedlessly. Entertaining throughout, save a forgettable middle few, they are undeniably best when at their raucous shoutiest.

Always splitting opinion amongst the Sounds crew, the multi-instrumental, multi-vocal St Jude's Infirmary (4/5) round the evening off in stunning fashion. Comparisons to Arcade Fire may remain fanciful, but there are certainly parallels to be drawn, aesthetically and sonically. Emma-Jane Campbell possesses the sweetest voice to cross these ears in a while, but the most enduring themes are of innovation and eclecticism, a marvellous performance. [Finbarr Bermingham]
http://myspace.com/billyliarmusic myspace.com/ardentjohnmusic www.isaandthefilthytongues.com/ www.saintjudesinfirmary.co.uk/