Live Review: The Arsonist, Boys Boys Boys!, Sam Perry, Sparks Vertigo

This scribe's second consecutive night at the Rosemount was a different affair that proved none the less encouraging in its showcase of local music. First act up and Sparks Vertigo demonstrated a sublime, ornate sound of depth and intricacy. Finely crafted with a keyboard and piano combo, plus plenty of familiar faces and vocal talent, the six-piece were sending some serious As Tall As Lions vibes; a mighty fine thing. One-man beat extraordinaire Sam Perry grooved through some vocal percussion loops and verbed-out vox that drew admiration in a different kind of way. Losing himself in some Eminem verses, the dude has got his set absolutely smoking at the minute. If you looked away you would never know you weren't listening to a DJ performance.

The oestrogen-fuelled Boys Boys Boys! proved a delightful – if a little too sugary – addition. Camp as shit, the band have a knack for making the mundane contagious and have deservedly forged a sound of their own on the back of some seriously catchy tracks; new addition '90s Forever pointing to a direction with no less the kitsch. Preparing to record their debut album, expect plenty more of the kind of songs guys in cardigans and over-sized glasses ironically enjoy. R&B revivalists The Arsonist earned a large and deserved headlining audience for a band still very early in their existence. Launching their debut EP Disguise, the twin vocal attack was as smooth as it was fly-stretchingly sexy. Channelling the greats (MJ and JT), the emotive piano and synth lines, soulful harmonies, and intricate, restrained beats demonstrated nothing but talent. Closing with the fantastic single Breakdown, overhearing a burly looking man turn to his equally burly looking mate and say, “I wish I could sing like that”, you know you're onto a winner.