BORDERLINE played what has to be one of their best sets ever, I've followed these guys since their first set at club 85 and have been able to watch them improve dramatically into the emo popsters of today. Seriously though, tonight's set showcased the heavy side of Borderline and proved to be a good example of their originality and having the best sound they've ever had (with their Producer Andy Davies behind the desk) helped a lot, I sometimes think punk is a lazy explanation of Borderline but it does connect with the crowd, has a lot of energy and is stupidly catchy at times.

Borderline rammed the place and the faithful crowd were ecstatic at hearing the band. Even Rhythm guitarist Billy 'lego man' Rider rocked out tonight which is a perfect example of the energy in the room (if you've met him you'll understand.)

Borderline's new CD is out in the next two weeks and will be sent to various promoters and used to attack London more. If anyone wants a copy based on what they've just read then please email me at matt@livecircuit.net and we'll sort it out.

BOOM IN THE DIAMOND INDUSTRY, one of club 85's best loved local bands are a good example of the young that have grown and flown the nest. Coming back to do a special show tonight for the first time under the new name (formerly known as FOG DONKEY, so keep reading) these guys play funky hardcore but without the hardcore-ness. The riffs can be subtle yet happy and bouncy and the songs just go all over the shop. There's an incredible bounce in this band and the really do sound like no other. Having played Big Scary Monster's Xmas party down in London a while back seems to have done a lot for them and their rapidly growing following.

Clad in trademark white polo necks(?) the band have this wonderful interaction between everything in the band which allows them to play moments which are empty by others standards and pull it off looking cool. Most of what this band are about is making very cool music that has a bounce, This is a serious white funk outfit who are riding their own sound and could easily be massive.

I thought MASHTUN GRACE sounded a lot 'heavier' tonight, probably more in the way they played then what they were playing but the opening song's main riff was just a complete steam roller and captured Mashtun Grace at their most energetic. It was also the best rendition of 'Do your homework' ever to creep forth from a speaker. Everything was charged tonight and it just clicked together and Mashtun Grace played a pitch perfect set and that is the only time I've ever said that about a band.

I think the reason that a band such as Mashtun Grace work is because of the huge variety in their sound and the fact it's still so accessible even though it always sounds huge, either that or the fact they rock! They are one of the few bands in the scene who I will stick my neck out all the way and say that they will be huge, Any promoters reading this can feel free to contact me for details if you want to book them...I suggest you do.

Words // Matt Turner
Pictures // Simon Hill
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