The Futureheads @ ABC1

The Enemy are drawing comparisons with Kasabian and Oasis, which is strange for a three piece but a punchy set of anthemic songs here proves that there is a kernel of truth in those comments. Howling Bells fail to keep up the pace however; swaying and swooning ponderously as the crowd gently doze. That is until The Futureheads unleash their Gatling gun of guitar; firing out a contrapuntal battery of vocals and caustic rhythms. The front line ranks gathered to face this onslaught throw up their hands in surrender as the Futureheads mow them down with a barrage of sound. If you think The Futureheads are just a cheeky bunch of Geordies knocking out catchy tunes, you should think again. This was as powerful and full-blooded a show as you could expect from those bands campaigning for our hearts and minds. [Dave Reid]