Thursday 19/04/07 Wild Beasts @ Old Queens Head, London

Wild Beasts are an intriguing set up. Domino’s new signings create lush, exquisite sounds; a deliciously avant-garde band who are making a few well-placed waves. Their first single ‘Brave Bulging Buoyant Clairvoyants’ made the top twenty last year, assailed by mucho support from Steve Lamacq. Seems to be the story of every buzz-bands life, so its interesting to see a band that is genuinely different.

The opener sets the whimsical tone for the set. It starts with that mischevious popping sound you can make with your cheek. While the vocals are a bit low, they soon sort their sound out.

Lead singer Hayden’s wailing a la Anthony & The Johnsons embraces the speculative ethic behind their work. Garbed in vest and braces, the image of Madness is pitted against the saccharine of his vocals. It’s so delightful to not be witnessing another copycat indie band. Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen and Kate Bush are the influences here.

Their naïve stylings lead to half a dozen tracks which are all intrigueing. A sluggish meandering ‘50s tone accompanies their second track. A scat on the cymbols, a doowap beat and ‘50s skiffle are all mini-features in their set. The merry-go-round attitude they present certainly draws you in with a mythically raised eyebrow.

You’ll love it or hate it, but you’ll certainly be intrigued.