Live Review: Deep Heat, Love Of Diagrams, Deaf Wish, Bits Of Shit, Mollusc

It could be argued that Mollusc are the odd ones out on tonight's jam-packed bill — given that they're the only band embracing the dark art of the synthesiser — but, as per the norm, this constantly evolving duo deliver with a set of post-punk-infused electro that is bloody addictive. It would have been nice to see them play later in the evening but, hey! It's a cracking way to begin.

Bits Of Shit are up next and the group are short, sharp and on fire with their punk aesthetic embodying the best of the late '80's/early '90s. They are jerky and give off a sense of musical agitation. Vocalist Danny Vanderpol's stage presence is undeniable as he fiddles about with mic stands and ventures into the crowd whenever he pleases, and it's all over too soon.

Deaf Wish come out of the gates loud and are instantly identifiable from their Sonic Youth-worship wall of sound. The band are an instant highlight and keep building up the energy from beginning to end. The live environment is their home and that ethos resonates tonight. Apart from the vocals getting a little lost in the mix as a result of the guitar onslaught, it is just sheer joy and quality musicianship 'til the end. Go you cool thing!

Love Of Diagrams follow and the three-piece present a more rhythmic, driving approach to indie-punk and pop songwriting. The beat is constantly driving while the guitar and bass craft a perfect backdrop for catchy vocals. Each track has its own little inflections that pop up, constantly making things interesting and causing our ears to prick up. Overall, it's hard not to get lost in their world.

Deep Heat are up last and have a lot to play up to considering the quality acts we've experienced before them and, unfortunately, they slightly miss the mark. Launching their debut LP Still Life, Deep Heat's set just doesn't have the musical escapism that Love Of Diagrams and Deaf Wish offered (or the straight-up authenticity and dark imagery of Bits Of Shit and Mollusc respectively). That's not to say their set is bad, it is varied within its roots from straight rock to surf popping up all through a post-punk mindset. A mid-set guitar breakdown causes quite the delay and provides some interesting banter all before they end in a storm. They round out the set with a Joy Division/early '00s hardcore hybrid, which proves a great way to cap off a truly solid night of live music.