Los Campesinos!, Manchester Academy Three

Hailing from Cardiff there is a sense that this band would panda to the stereo-type of angelic Welsh choral voices and harmonising. But oh no. Their style is distinct with glockenspiel and violins amongst their menagerie of instruments and it has become a less refined but more honed live set. Cooped up in the confides of Academy Three the band squash onto the stage as the crowd edge forward eagerly and their clever set list alternating between new stuff and old manages to appeal to everyone.

Songs such as ‘We Are Beautiful, We Are Doomed’ have an infectious beat which clever lyrics entwine themselves over as the various instruments blend seamlessly. It is testament to a talented band that their anthem doesn’t need a shout ridden chorus or air punching to make it a tangible and angst ridden affair. As the notes hit the air they become solid in carrying the message of Los Campesinos! and truly shows their evolvement.

Older songs such as ‘My Year In Lists’ uses the duel-vocals to full effect and has the sweat-ridden crowd jumping about whilst more well known songs such as ‘Death To Los Campesinos!’ and ‘Sweet Dreams Sweet Cheeks’ receive an equally joyous reaction. Even though it was the final night on their tour it was lovely to see their live performance energetic and not crumpled with tiredness.

‘All Your Keyfabe Friends’ has at the heart of it the noise-pop which always seems melodic, even when piling instrument upon vocal upon instrument and the ‘twee’ title which was placed on Los Camp! so readily gives itself a whole new meaning.

Finishing with a squeal of feedback and exalted expressions Los Campesinos! exit the stage leaving behind them a satisfied feeling that they are most definitely on top.