Live Review Marmozets, The Borderline, London 23rd August 2017

They continue to throw out convention, making space for raw, impassioned unpredictability.

Words: Ben Tipple
Photos: Jonathan Dadds

24th August 2017

Returning after time in the studio, Marmozets opt for a comparably intimate return at the Borderline. It provides an early opportunity to road test their enticing new material, having recently teased the follow-up to 2014’s excellent ‘The Weird And Wonderful…’ with the thunderous ‘Play’.

From the off, tonight unfolds as a celebration of the old and the new, launching into the ferocious ‘Move Shake Hide’ with the characteristic energy that has underpinned the band’s performances since the very star. Vocalist Becca Macintyre dominates the stage, exclaiming the evening “feels like Christmas” as the crowd respond by relentlessly throwing themselves off the stage. It’s sheer carnage.

The set reaches an early peak with a spine-tingling rendition of ‘Captivate You’, which has continually showcased Becca’s vocal ability alongside the technical wizardry of the band’s math-ier takes. “I see what’s happening,” she nods, as a pit opens up for set closer ‘Why Do You Hate Me’ before jumping into the crowd without a second thought. It’s testament to the band’s inclusivity; Marmozets are just as much one of the crowd.

Where most bands would veer dangerously close to inconsistency, Marmozets have successfully made a claim to their jarring sound. Guitarist Sam Macintyre acknowledges their variety ahead of new track ‘Run With The Rhythm’. “This is a big tune,” he declares. “If you like ‘Captivate You’, you’ll love this.” What follows is a melodic powerhouse, clearly still a little rough around the edges, but one that promises to become a set staple over the coming months.

Other new tracks ‘Habits’, ‘Like A Battery’ and lead single ‘Play’ showcase the two sides of Marmozets; from the huge hooks to their unashamed time-signature fuckery. It’s ‘Major System Error’, an alternative party anthem in the making, which brings the two together with impeccable results. It adds a hint of consistency to both the band’s sound and performance, and clearly exposes that individuality that makes Marmozets seriously special.

With Reading & Leeds just around the corner, rightly plonked on the upper tier of the line-up, and larger UK shows to come, this is the start of something big for Marmozets. They continue to throw out convention, making space for raw, impassioned unpredictability.