Frank Turner
Nice'n'Sleazys
I'm guessing I wasn't the only Million Dead enthusiast who was a tad sceptic when informed of ex-front man Frank Turner's decision to make the genre switch and branch out into singer-songwriteresque folk music. After last night though, I'm guessing I'm not the only person feeling a bit foolish for ever doubting him. The night began with dubiously named one man act Beans on Toast, who warbled through a frankly dull set that was only made marginally more interesting by his pronounciation of the word 'cock'. This was followed by an energetic and reasonably entertaining half hour from Oxford quartet Dive, Dive, who provided harmonies galore with some impeccably timed stops thrown in for good measure. By the end of their set, however, the now packed room felt slightly impatient as it buzzed in anticipation of Turner's arrival.
Expecting an entirely solo set, it was a pleasant surprise when Frank was joined on stage by the Dive, Dive boys for a number of songs. His voice soared on "Worse Things Happen At Sea" and single "Vital Signs", whilst the whole crowd chanted along to political anthem "Thatcher Fucked The Kids" and bounced emphatically throughout hoedown "Back In The Day". The atmosphere was perfect. Although it was clear that a large proportion of the crowd were simply in awe of the man and would have applauded him peeling a banana, he was completely deserving of every deafening cheer. Ending the night appropriately with 'The Ballad Of Me and My Friends', Frank Turner delivered a well-rounded, professional performance, which won over and warmed the entire room.
Thursday 1st February
I'm guessing I wasn't the only Million Dead enthusiast who was a tad sceptic when informed of ex-front man Frank Turner's decision to make the genre switch and branch out into singer-songwriteresque folk music. After last night though, I'm guessing I'm not the only person feeling a bit foolish for ever doubting him. The night began with dubiously named one man act Beans on Toast, who warbled through a frankly dull set that was only made marginally more interesting by his pronounciation of the word 'cock'. This was followed by an energetic and reasonably entertaining half hour from Oxford quartet Dive, Dive, who provided harmonies galore with some impeccably timed stops thrown in for good measure. By the end of their set, however, the now packed room felt slightly impatient as it buzzed in anticipation of Turner's arrival. 
Expecting an entirely solo set, it was a pleasant surprise when Frank was joined on stage by the Dive, Dive boys for a number of songs. His voice soared on "Worse Things Happen At Sea" and single "Vital Signs", whilst the whole crowd chanted along to political anthem "Thatcher Fucked The Kids" and bounced emphatically throughout hoedown "Back In The Day". The atmosphere was perfect. Although it was clear that a large proportion of the crowd were simply in awe of the man and would have applauded him peeling a banana, he was completely deserving of every deafening cheer. Ending the night appropriately with 'The Ballad Of Me and My Friends', Frank Turner delivered a well-rounded, professional performance, which won over and warmed the entire room.Words: Ben Harrison
Photos: Chris Baldie
