Yak might just be the best live band in the country

Their reputation for on-stage madness might always have taken centre-stage, but as debut album ‘Alas Salvation’ approaches release, Yak are gunning straight for the top of the pile.

A new Audiotree Live session, streaming below, should be all the evidence they need to take the throne. Screeching feedback drowns out the poor presenter’s attempt at introducing the three-piece, before a twisting improvisation hits its peak with Oli pulling the strings clean off his guitar before their intro’s even up.

The ante’s in a permanent state of rise throughout - jutting out amid the typically awkward Audiotree interview segments, they give ‘Use Somebody’, ‘Hungry Heart’, ‘Smile’, ‘Alas Salvation’, the deranged ‘Victorious (National Anthem)’ and ‘Out On A Limb’ from that aforementioned incredible debut an airing, all bawled vocals and grizzled demeanour.

Watch the session for yourself below, and once you’ve caught your breath you can catch Yak on the dates below the player. ‘Alas Salvation’ is released May 13th via Octopus Electrical - we went in the studio to chat its making.