Neon, Cannon @ Rob Roy,28/05/05

Tue 31st May, 2005 in Gig Reviews

Playing to a sold out crowd, we got a taste of Cannon drummer Dave’s skills as he geared up for the set before unleashing with earsplitting upbeat rock. “Hell, hell, you’re going straight to hell”, reminiscent of ACDC`s Highway To Hell. The initial reception to the opening track included a very encouraging clap and whistle. Lead vocalist and guitarist Mitch was lit up by a flashing red light, you might have even called it a neon light? Cannon fired immediately with a blend of rockin’ riffs and Jet-like vocals. This band’s style was fast paced and riveting, Marshall amplifiers exploding with the utmost energy. The trio appeared to be very in tune with each other, sounding like rehearsal was an everyday occurrence, belting out solid songs consecutively.

There was also a Spiderbait influenced sound coming across in a couple of their songs, reaffirming their raw live presence. Drummer Dave formed a good part of the backbone of Cannon, with his hammering style fuelling the vocalist further, the lyrics went on to ask, ‘what are you standing for’. It was unfortunate when feedback seemed a problem for the boys, but this didn`t hinder the thrilling emissions elsewhere. These guys could easily support bands like Jet or The Casanovas. With their first EP out in June, you can be sure there will be lots more heard from Cannon.

Neon’s opening riff was as catchy as that of bands such as The Knack, as well as being likened to Cheap Trick and Red Kross, they certainly know how to influence a hungry crowd. With an added guitarist wearing a David Bowie t-shirt, the set looked to be promising.

The volume was pumped to the max as Neon belted out tracks from their single Dizziness and EP A Man. Rather than ensuring audible lyrics, however, the band thundered with concentration on sheer impact. A mediocre applause followed as bass player Britt Spooner thumped out pulsating rhythm, making for another largely amplified song. Jamie Gurney garbed in a red top and churned out his expertise on drums, as the guest guitarist commented about ‘wise crackin` in the front row already’. Smooth, cool and sexy bassist Britt gave the adoring male punters a good view, while ensuring an effective groovy intro bass riff. Lead guitar playing by front man Josh Bittmead was very impressive, especially as witty interludes and solos came forth.

What followed was all uplifting, Neon revving the crowd into a hyped frenzy. The single A Man consisted of power pop chords, as punters chanted to the chorus with glee. Following up with anthem to-be tracks laden with power driven guitars, the band proved they could rock out at the Rob Roy. The new single Dizziness provided the highlight of the night as a mini drunkard mosh pit started. “Up and down, round and round, dizz-i-ness makes the world go round” belted out Josh, and the crowd followed orders. A warm mellow track replaced the chaos of Dizziness, settling the over enthusiastic front row down for a moment. In casual, laid back attire, Neon looked and sounded like a promising band on the eve of stardom.