Live Review: Ensemble Formidable, The Brow Horn Orchestra, Pimps Of Sound

Pimps Of Sound set the ball rolling at a frenetic tempo with some exotic, lambada-lovin' drum'n'bass. Some of their music was taped, but a wealth of nimble freewheeling on sax, bass and drums more than compensated. Some of their influences were familiar, but the Pimps did best when they threw contrasting elements together, such as when Bill Withers' Ain't No Sunshine was taken down a dark alley and given a severe working over. Further exploration of such sinister spaces might reap them all kinds of rewards.

Despite their recent line-up changes, high energy Afro-Cuban rap 'n' roots squad The Brow Horn Orchestra's performance was cohesive, tight and slicker than Silvio Berlusconi's sausage. The Brow gave a complete display of their eclectic nature, from their sweet, slower side to their angry political one. From sensual flutes to evil pirate laughs, they explored a rich kaleidoscope of musical possibilities. Given their consistent excellence one has to ask, why are they yet to score a massive break-out hit?

A comparatively younger entity, but making waves already, Ensemble Formidable could be described as 21st century gypsy jazz, with roots in swing music but also enough new ideas to manifest a whole new animal. In the flesh, their crafty arrangements and wicked sense of humour (see Glacial Wayne) had the perfect foil in engaging vocalist Laura Bishop. Much kudos was due to trombonist Karri Harper-Meredith, who despite having just played a full set as part of The Brow, still had enough energy to do scissor kicks. There were plenty of inviting tables and chairs available, but the audience remained on its feet, twisting and crunking the night away. And on the hottest weekend of the year too. Phew. Ensemble Formidable? C'est magnifique!