Egyptian Blue, Yes (Basement), 21st October 2021

There’s some great new bands around right now, one of them being Brighton’s Egyptian Blue who I’ve been itching to see for it seems like ages. They play the sort of angular post-punk you’d get from Wire but beefed up with the sort of clout Foals are capable of. It sounds awesome through a set of speakers, but live in the Yes Basement it’s even better. It’s like a series of bombs detonating rhythmically over the course of one wonderful albeit short set. I’m a little shocked how quiet it is to be honest, I’m a bit chilly in this dark concrete box… to start with anyway. Everyone jams down the front and it’s impossible to stand still with this lot. Two songs deep I’m not sure if the smoke on stage is from the machines or off the band. Singer Andy attacks the mic and guitar like it’s life and death between them and him, whilst Leith (great name) stalks around with his Vox. They make a formidable pair. I feel a bit guilty not being able to see the drummer, he’s very much hidden by the front line from where I’m stood, but the rhythm section aren’t hiding, the bass is beautifully punchy and the drums snarl with a monstrous intent throughout. The sound is taught, clean and dangerous. It all sounds brilliant but new single ‘Salt’ is probably the highlight for me and sends the mini pit into a frenzy. It’s all over far too quick, but shows a lot of promise. This room will be packed next time if indeed they’ll fit in this room.