Common Redstarts @ Bannermans

Whilst not exactly heaving, there were enough attendees at Bannermans this evening to suggest hotly-tipped Edinburgh four-piece Common Redstarts could be worth keeping an eye on. Their catchy, inoffensive rock n roll pleased the assembled throng and while there was little variation or discernible cutting edge, there was enough ability and good tune action to offer encouragement. Latest single Killing Street suffered slightly from the somewhat bunker-esque acoustics but still managed to sparkle, whilst following number, the brooding City's Big Night Out was the highlight, with pounding drums driving the set to a higher level. On this evidence it would appear the 'Redstarts will need to reach that higher level somewhat more consistently if they're to break the small-band shackles that have them by the ankles at the moment. Whatever the colour, it's a Start. [Jon Seller]