Casual Sex / Halfrican @ Nice N Sleazy, 22 November

The urgency of Halfrican’s surf-punk sound is in stark contrast to the laidback beachware they wear on stage, despite the Baltic-like conditions outside. They set the tone for their well-recieved support slot with barnstorming opening track Cocksucker, delivered with a smile and performed with a visceral relish. On another night, you could argue that the trio might just steal the show, but despite their stellar efforts this evening belongs to Sam Smith and his Casual Sex enthusiasts.

“I have only one thing to say to you,” Smith announces after borrowing lipstick from an audience member. “I am a fucking princess.” Regardless of whether his regal pretensions are genuine, Smith instinctively knows when to ham things up for the amusement of those watching, in this case the heaving basement venue of Nice N Sleazy. 

He’s in his element tonight, playing with a strutting purpose that’s difficult to ignore and easy to admire. His band are here to formally unveil The Bastard Beat EP; five tracks which suggest this Glasgow four-piece are likely to only increase their already substantial profile.

As enticing as that record is, Casual Sex remain – for the moment – an act best enjoyed live. They are close to hitting top gear this evening, looking confident, adding new energy to their songs and feeding off the positive reaction of the crowd. The Sound of Casual Sex is a psychobilly beauty  (but shouldn't be considered their definitive style) and the infectious bass of the EP’s title track (dedicated tonight, as usual, to the Westminster Government) encourages many to start dancing – always a positive sign for any band still to release its debut album.