Tuesday 16/05/06 The New Pornographers @ KOKO, London

’We’re the New Pornographers…Check this shit out’ A.C Newman, front man of the Canadian superish group gingerly states.  Whilst The Raconteurs despise the tag, The New Pornographers are something of an understated collective - like a musical Waltons with a revolving door policy.  Tonight they number 5 instead of the usual 8 but even with this depleted rank the Canadian invasion continues.

Despite the absence of Neko Case, synthmeisters Blaine Thurier and Dan Bejar, sticksman Kurt Dahle smokes and lives every moment, guitarist Todd Fancey looks undecided as to whether he’s in or out as he skulks corner stage whilst John Collins has a mean Peter Hook likeness.  He also plays bass.  It’s almost too much of a coincidence.  Still the family dynamic of Newman and niece Kathryn Calder is heart warming to see as their every move, chord and mistake is cheered like a home coming.

With Canada represented in force on this year’s festival circuits, expect a buzz of Arcade Fire proportions and don’t worry, it’s wholly justified.