Sunday 20/07/03 Revelation, I Pinata, The Veils, Bell X1 @ Roadhouse, Manchester

Manchester based solo-artiste Revelation is showcasing his talent at every opportunity, to promote his self produced album Revelation X. His main influences are trip hop, classical music, drum 'n' bass and jazz, although his style jumps from Who Knows' spiritual African beats to the ballady Where Have You Gone To? Only You's calming string accompaniment is the perfect antidote to a Sunday morning hangover. The whole set stretches his vocal range and highlights his undoubted ability.

I Pinata open with Promises a moody tune with a sleazy jazzy feel and haunting lyrics. Benefits Of Hindsight had a Vines style up-tempo feel, which emphasised their musical range. The band were warming to the cause and feeling more at ease with the surroundings when they kicked in with Just Cause, a big drum intro and cutting rock 'n' roll guitars. Chili's style Epigram - the big finale was a one hundred mile an hour whirlwind, almost blowing the audience away. Their songs are very melodic with catchy harmonies; a successful future seems to be within their reach and are certainly ones to watch.

This is the third time I have seen The Veils and they keep getting better. This four piece from London are extremely talented musicians and songwriters, opening with Scritti Politti's Lions After Slumber (I never remember it sounding like this though!), giving it a major overhaul complete with tribal drums and Finn's unique vocal style.

Guiding Light, the forthcoming single release, is packed with heart wrenching emotion with Finn (lead vocals) giving it everything. The Tide That Left And Never Came Back is a beautifully written clean song with crisp drums - sheer music therapy that leaves you feeling overwhelmed by its fragileness. Taking you on an emotional rollercoaster was Lavinia, a very powerful acoustic tune with piercing vocals, the harmony swirling round your head. Finishing the set with More Heat Than Light, their first single release, a crescendo of drums and guitars build to a lightning charged chorus guaranteed to get every part of your body moving.

If you haven't seen them live yet…WHY NOT? It's a moving experience you will never forget. Keep your eyes peeled for the new album to appear later this year.

Final band of the night is Bell X1. This is the first time this five piece from Dublin have played Manchester… let's hope it's not too long before they return. Having got hold of an album sampler about a month ago and playing it to death I was looking forward to seeing them perform. Despite it not being the busiest of nights they played their hearts and souls out as if their lives depended on it.

It is very difficult to pigeonhole their style of music because it's so diverse, there's an assortment of energy and passion that strives to engulf you as it swirls round your head.

Opening with Daybreak - a slow relaxed country/folk number with a smooth vocal - Paul (lead vocals) produces an almost miniature acoustic guitar which makes a beautiful sound. Snakes And Snakes reminded me of early Talking Heads and Paul's movements are that of David Byrne, with a little bit of XTC's Senses Working Overtime guitar. Slow Set, produced a wonderful array of instruments with a banjo taking precedence and a harmonica thrown in for good measure, having an easy folk feel to it. Tongue the new single followed… laced with pulsating keys and emotionally charged lyrics, that build to a powerful throbbing fusion. By the time they finish the set you're left wanting more.

Their debut album Music in Mouth released on 21st July is a fantastic album and one you must invest in. Check out their forthcoming tour dates, as this band will be making big headlines in the months to come.