Following on from all the fun and games of Day 1…
The Sound of Modesty have the unenviable task of starting Day 2, but they manage it successfully. The room fills up shortly before the band take to the stage and play a magical alt-rock set with clean vocals and keys. New tracks are aired before the band head to the studio to record their next EP.
The description of “noise rock” doesn’t do justice to the eccentric nature of Peach’s music. Punky bass lines, wandering guitar lines, and Ellie Godwin’s intense vocal delivery make it a compelling performance. Stand-out tracks “It’s Only Love” and “Unhappy People” show the band’s ability to be restrained before reaching an explosive climax.
Tayne save the day by playing an earlier slot due to traffic delaying the arrival of Cowboyy, who were due to be on. A rushed setup results in some sound issues on the opening tracks, but these are resolved as the set goes on. Tayne are self-described as “industrial noise pop,” but many I spoke to made the comparison to Health, but heavier. Matt’s snarling vocals, thumping drums, electronic samples, catchy riffs, and intense strobing lighting combine for a full sensory assault.
I only briefly catch Cowboyy and Shaking Hand as I give in to the need for food. I catch a couple of tracks from both bands, who play math-rock, and it seems I’m in the minority in choosing this moment to eat.
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Sugar Horse are playing the last date on their current tour supporting the recently released album Not a Sound in Heaven, and we are treated to three tracks from it. The tour has been getting rave reviews and tonight’s show is no exception. Opening track “Fire Graphics” has a hypnotic bass line with screaming vocals that flows into “Secret Speech,” slowing things down and adding elements of clean singing and doom-laden riffs that force everyone to headbang. It’s a short set as the band close with “Shouting Judas at Bob Dylan” to a huge round of applause. It was a set that emphasises that the band deserves all the attention they are currently getting.
The room is absolutely packed when Kowloon Walled City take to the stage for their first UK appearance in seven years as part of a short European run. Before the set even begins, guitarist and vocalist Scott Evans warms up the crowd with chat about the venue’s famous pies – another great plus point of hosting StrangeForms at the Social Club. The music is a heavy, driving form of sludge that builds an intense energy in the room. The band easily have the longest queue at the merchandise stand, proving just what an excellent booking they were.
Darkher is the brainchild of Jayn Maiven, performing tonight with drummer Gareth Hodgson from A Forest of Stars. Playing atmospheric metal, the band play seven tracks from the revered Realms album. While Jayn plays wonderful layered guitar tracks, it’s the haunting vocals that really drag you into the music.
It was my first visit to StrangeForms festival, but I’m sure to return. The festival line-up is well curated, with each band building on the last. The food and drinks are reasonably priced, but it’s the atmosphere that really stands out. It’s the perfect place to connect with like-minded people and disconnect from the world for a weekend.
2027 weekend tickets are on sale now, priced at £37 + b/f.
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Pics by ECO Pixels UK
