AmpedReviews.net

iLikeTRAiNS - The Joiners, Southampton - 13th September 2007

iLiKETRAiNS seem to have been on the periphery of mainstream consciousness for over a year now. They play songs good enough, and melodic enough, to be appreciated by almost anyone, but are somehow too unusual, perhaps too intelligent, and certainly very different from any recent act receiving widespread recognition. But iLiKETRAiNS are a band perfectly suited to this kind of cult status; their brooding, atmospheric performance just wouldn’t work so well in a less intimate setting.

Their performance was accompanied by a beguiling backdrop of low-fi animation which perfectly complemented their stunning sound. Their narrative approach to music, illustrating myriad historical events, is at times difficult to follow, but I got the impression that this was to some extent intentional – iLiKETRAiNS’s performance is a show that excels in seeming both extremely complex, yet sounding simple and perfectly orchestrated at the same time.

It was without question that this Leeds-based five-piece are highly talented musicians. The fact that they appear thoroughly awkward onstage is part of the charm and leads you to really appreciate the band as musicians and to absorb the overall feel of their set. Although their mature sound limits their appeal – illustrated by an unusual lack of under eighteens at The Joiners tonight – it sets them apart from whatever is flavour of the month, thus ensuring their longevity and potential for growth as band.

With debut album Elegies to Lessons Learnt due for imminent release, and virtually non-stop touring planned until the end of November, iLiKETRAiNS‘s epic sound and unique performance looks set to obtain for them the recognition and respect that they deserve.

You can view live photos from this gig AT THE GALLERY

Review by Ellie Harvey

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