Epic26 / Boris Yeltsin Love XI @ Bannermans

Saturday night in Edinburgh's underground is a game of two halves tonight as a heavy, electronic driven opening gives way to a lighter, melodic finale.

Boris Yeltsin Love XI (3/5) have been around for some time, although, after a recent hiatus, tonight's gig is somewhat of a rarity. They are a more than adequate introduction to Depeche Mode-esque industrial rock, plying their trade with impressive ability whilst darkening Edinburgh's darkest venue with goth-tinged ditties including 'Mental' and a blacker than black take on Joy Division's 'Shadowplay'.

Epic26 (3/5) round off proceedings, and, with their friends and family in tow, almost get Bannermans jumping. Like their predecessors, the band are more than able on their respective instruments, although the usual bass-heavy mix at the expense of lead vocals results in some tunes falling a little flat. Clearly drawing on a wide range of influences, most notably the Police, the band maintain a good atmosphere, arming the set with apparent fan-favourites 'Lovin' Lucy' and 'Stuck in Time'. Overall, a professional performance by two contrasting local bands. Good game, lads. [Jon Seller]