Live Review: Grey Ghost - Workers Club

Getting over those weekly winter hump days with a little Grey Ghost action, punters file in to witness opener Diktion One. His fresh concoction of soul-searching lyrics, philosophising and hip hop-brand swagger is refreshing. Basking in the tropical stage light, he urges us to move closer to him: a request achieved through proximity to the stage as well as his lyrics. The persistent, rousing beats from DJ Rellik coupled with Diktion One's snappy delivery give way momentarily to Windsor Thieves' more awkward form of minimalist, indie shoegaze. The duo seem decidedly cut apart from the night's alternative offerings, as the singer reveals, “I think this gig will be good, I've got new socks on.” Launching into a breathy, slow cover of Cry Me A River by Justin Timberlake, their disparity is confirmed.

Appearing on stage a little later than intended, the five pieces of the Grey Ghost puzzle drift in and set up. It's cover time again as they launch themselves into Psycho Killer by Talking Heads, a move that perfectly captures their ethos: loud, proud, rock and hip hop all rolled into one mad force. They are also keen to wax lyrical on modern culture and our reliance on Machines: “For 49 cents you can buy my psychosis” – sounds like they have an app for that.

Lead singer Jeremedy fronts proceedings with his massive personality, moving into the audience, begging for more energy. With songs such as Moon Kids how can you refuse? Fusing sub-atomic beats from their in-house master (also a keen bassist) with mystical shouts of kids on the “whiskey trail”, the tune has an ethereal-yet-heavy atmosphere, alive with shifting weight. This is announced as a new number and Jeremedy entertains the idea of unleashing a new song on the crowd every week, being that they are in residence for the foreseeable months! With extra boosting beats from their new drummer (only one rehearsal into his tenure!) and some galactic finger work from their guitarist, Space Ambassador expands in the negative space. Filling every inch of our collective earspace, movement becomes primal. Jeremedy's final words “I'm going to keep this short, as it's a Wednesday and people have to go to work” are sad. But have no fear, Grey Ghost are helping us over the hump every week from now on, with guests in tow. Get with the Alchemy.