Daughterboy Jao performed with the confidence of seasoned musicians, bringing a subtle quirkiness to their set to complement their musical prowess. The four piece also appeared to have coordinated their wardrobe, and stood in a symmetrical display of black shirts with the lead singer standing in the middle wearing a white shirt that glowed a dramatic blue under the light of the stage.

The audience watched as the guitarist barked distractingly into his microphone while the lead singer attempted a final sound check. This boyish cheek set the mood for their set. The catchy chorus in Better For You had the lazy vocal appeal similar to Julian Casablancas from The Strokes and succeeded in gaining the attention of the audience that had been restless and chatting beforehand. A look of intrigue spread across the faces of those around me who now gave their full attention to the guys up on stage.

The change in pace throughout Please Surrender ensured the audience stayed tuned. Before the next song the guitarist leant into the singer to tease him and the lead singer responded by flipping him the bird, no doubt intended as a display of endearment. One Step Tease was a strong track with a tight finish. Cures and Curses showcased some controlled vocal vulnerability reminiscent of Radiohead’s Talk Show Host , before progressing into a track with a sexy rock attitude that drove the subtle, teasing beat and guitar licks. The crowd also appreciated its loud, all-in instrumental that got the adrenalin flowing. By this stage some girls were up and dancing infront of the stage and judging by the look on the faces of others around me, there were a few more people who would have liked to join in.

Thrills had a fun beat that was popular with the audience and the fun continued when they finished playing and the lead singer mocked the audience saying ‘clappity clap clap clap’. He then went on to confess he should be bantering to us but laughed that he doesn’t really do the banter thing.

Daughterboy Jao seemed to be in their own world, somewhat indifferent to the presence of the crowd as they relished the opportunity to play together. There was some sideways shoe-shuffling and a mischievous wink from the lead singer to the dancers at the front before they finished up. They then thanked the audience for not back chatting and wished us all a nice night and a nice life for the rest of their time on this ‘effervescent planet’.