4 May 2010
Opening act Chen Santa Maria were making such an awkward noise, at such a high volume, that the only option was to be somewhere else, so we did exactly that. Experimental noodlings can have their merits, but I couldn't find room in my heart for that lot.
After this, laptop-wielding Bachelorette seemed convinced that she was only there to make up the numbers, thanking us for being there to see High Places; fair enough, I suppose, as until she learns how to put across a live set then I don't want to pay to see it. If she is going to put herself on stage then she really shouldn't be so apologetic about it. The music itself had its moments, the best of which were like Yazoo tracks with Julianna Barwick-style vocals applied, which in theory sounds like a winner all the way. At least there were some visuals to help the performance....
... unlike High Places, who underwhelmed completely. With no stage presence to speak of, despite the duo now having moved out from behind the bank of kit seen on previous tours, the lack of any other visual aid was sorely missed. When combined with a 'difficult' sound scenario, it was impossible for any atmosphere to build on the night.
It seemed to be rather a struggle to actually deliver the set - despite constant negotiations with the sound man, the trademark clattering beats were usually overwhelming and only rarely did the layers of more delicate sounds become clear. All too often the vocals and guitars disappeared in the mix, a great shame as these were basically the only 'live' elements. Overall it seemed to be too great a challenge just to put all the sounds in place for each track, which really didn't do justice to their repertoire.
And all this grumbling dissatisfaction without even mentioning how poorly Cargo operates as a bar! Don't get me started...
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