Molars @ Wharf Chambers, Leeds, 15 Dec

It’s always disappointing when a local DIY band split up, particularly during a time when everything is feeling increasingly alien and frightening to those of us dejected by the rise of right wing hostility. DIY culture, even if forced further underground, becomes more vital than ever; safe spaces are essential.

It’s no surprise that safe space Wharf Chambers has become even more of a home from home for many people of late, then. Tonight the venue hosts Molars’ album launch, which also happens to be their last ever gig, so it all feels somewhat bittersweet.

It’s clear that Mush are really starting to hit their stride. Noticeably tighter than their earlier performances, the set includes material from their brilliant recent EP Ex-Communiqué – which draws from the same gene-pool as the likes of Pavement – alongside new songs that are a promising indication of the band’s more cohesive development.

Beige Palace and Game_Program’s sets are equally triumphant, with the former wonderfully recalling the more unconventional aspects of no wave and post-punk. Meanwhile, the latter (Jonathan Nash of Cowtown/Hookworms/Nope) skillfully deals in an exploration of pre-digital electronic hardware, the result being an engrossing half-hour of playful and melodic electronica, retrofitted to elicit nostalgia in a way that is contemporary and reimagined instead of sounding outdated or too focused on the past.

Molars have never failed to impress live with their brand of motorik noise-pop, but this evening they're particularly on form. Drummer Sarah Statham plays with such vigor and aptitude it’s difficult not to stay fixated on her, while frontman Richard’s strong vocal serves as one of the band’s most distinctive trademarks. It’s Molars’ energy that has earned them a reputation as dynamic and engaging, though, and that’s a facet that will certainly be missed.

You don’t need to be prolific to make your mark, but it helps if you go out with a bang – that’s what Molars succeed in tonight, underlining a very fleeting but worthwhile existence.