Hope Of The States
>> King Tuts>> 30th March 2006
Promoting an album that isn’t due out til June is always going to be a tough gig. But why is it that Hope of the States can sell out two UK tours in two months doing so? Lead man Sam sums it up after the band open the show with new song Bonfires…’it’s been a long time’.
Bonfires is a solid opener but nothing on classic instrumental The Black Amnesias that in past has always been a powerful opener. The set is full of new tracks intertwined with classics from previous album The Lost Riots (Enemies/Friends, Nehemiah, the Red the White the Black the Blue, Black Dollar Bills). The band looks like they are finally having fun on stage, smiling at each other after songs, something that has always been lacking in the past. And flowing banter between the crowd in a packed Tuts is something that hasn’t always been evident. ‘Play It’s Chico Time!’ particularly tickles the band. All new tracks are well received by the crowd, outstanding tracks include new EP title track ‘Blood Meridian’ and ‘Church Choir’ before the band really shine in the encore.
The encore opens with what is to be the new albums Black Amnesias track. A powerful Instrumental track driven by lead guitars and violin that is every bit as epic as the Black Amnesias. Next is my personal highlight of the night a track called Under the Wild which is from the Blood Meridian EP. Sam announces that this is the first time the song has ever been performed to an audience and sees him return to the piano for the final time of the night and bassist Paul take over his guitar. The song opens softly with keys and violin supporting Sam’s vocals before the band kick in with what is to be a solid live song for the future. The set is finished off with a busy new track Static in the City.
Live HOTS are as good as any band you are likely to see. Although not everyone’s cup of tea they are destined to be one of Britain’s most challenging bands. All new tracks sound impressive live so if the live performance transfers onto the album the band are onto a winner, and with Sigur Ros producer Ken Thomas still on board there is no reason it shouldn’t.
>> Chris Knox
Blood Meridian EP is out now on limited edition vinyl
New album Left is due for release in June.
www.hopeofthestates.com
