Drenge are one of (admittedly quite a few) hotly tipped acts at this year’s Great Escape. It’s easy to see why. The Loveless brothers have talent that far exceeds their youthful years.
Successfully filling a room as cavernous as the Corn Exchange with just a guitar and drums is no mean feat and sound-wise they definitely carried it off.
As the popular history of one guitarist, one drummer bands consists of The Black Keys, The White Stripes and, err, The Ting Tings, it’s fair to say Drenge are more enamoured with the first name on that list.
Their sound is garage and loud, though at times produces moments of musical clarity and powerful beauty.
However, guitarist and singer Eoin failed to give off an air of confidence, which made for tough watching at times.
Even as the gig climaxed with him clambering on to the speakers and teetering above his brother’s drums there was an awkwardness to his stage presence. It was also entirely out of sync with the John Squire-esque sounds he produced from his instrument.
At some stage, talent has to be raw and almost everything about Drenge is. One day they could make for great watching. As yet, they are not quite there.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here