Cool Running’s - "MAXIMUM VOLTAGE" – 07.08.10

Even though the first band Outside the New were late, by an hour in starting as the lead singer was stopped my JMPD, (probably looking for weekend money extorted from innocent citizens.)

Never the less, this band that boast that mixed combination of fusion, funky, jazz, hip hop and rock , which only have been together, with the members as they are today, from December 2009. Having been around for about 4 years already and operating from the Fourways area, I am certainly glad that I took the time out to see them and one of my favourite digs

The talents of Ian Wishart and Tyrone Meyer on guitars, with Andrew Glass on Bass got the first song

“Legion” going with the rapper styled front man Gez MC , who dished out the versus with confidence bringing an 11th Hour and Limp Biscuit feel to this opener.

Their second song sold me as to their musical ability, though not specifically classically trained; the diversity of their delivery makes them a force to deal with. I will have to add them to my list of all time favourite bands along wit the likes of Sons of Signal, Elvolver one and of course Demetaphobia.

Their third song “About you” introduced the saxophonist ability of the lead singer Duane Arthur , the perfect counterpart to Gez. A great song marred only by the higher grinding vocals on the chorus of Duane otherwise and impressive song

Having arrived late their set was slashed in half, just as we are getting into the groove of this awesome band, they have to go… shit!!!

But be that as it may they last song showed the ability of the drummer Darren Keogh, his precise snare and kicker were a pleasure to listen to.

The final person in the group, though not stage wise was Jason Cole,

Their next Gig is at Tanz Café in Fourways on the 18th of August. A must see at this up market brand new venue, newly moved from Bryanston and having been around for a while this music venueand this new location could not have come at a better time as the calibre of artist out there is moving at a fast rate and all wanting to play at this great venue making this place “the place to be seen at” in the music and entertainment world

March against me the second band had to cut their set down too as to allow the bands following them an uninterrupted set.

This band consisted of Westley Engelbrecht aka General Festus on vox and lead Guit, drummer Charles Dubber aka Gunnery Sergeant Charlie Delta the duo from the acoustic band Acoustic Liquid, The Bronze Cobra on Bass and Major Kenny Rodgers on rhythm guitar.

Their song content and delivery was not as impressivre as their separate gigs. I personally prefer the calmer more romantic vocal as opposed to the screaming rocker type voice of Westley.

They did however get a great support from the crowd as a hole.

The drumming was impressing as expected. Loved the versatility and mix in his delivery

“Goodbye” their next song, whose video will be shown on MK the music channel centred around local talent, started off with awesome vocals and guitar work, especially from Major Kenny Rodgers

Preceding their third song a kindly patron decided that he would like to share his FISHBOWL drink, (one of the specialities of Cool’s).

This song had a haunting guitar rhythm through the centre of it allowing the introducing of the riffed out guitar work and chord change. I really liked this song… I take back any preconceived nothing that they were gonna be shitty, but the judgement of their first song… I really like their work generally

Personal preference will dictate that I stay clear from the screaming or growling as you all know that due to my old age that I can’t hear the words (Who the fuck can) and because of this I am not the best fan of this style, however this cannot determine the quality and or talent of these fine musicians.

The third band to take the floor, Glens End consisted of Ana on vocals and Lourene with Pieter on Guits, who also steps in as backing vocals; bringing the team together is Gerhard on Drums and Andre the stand in bass for Jerry who is partying up a storm at Oppikoppi

“Vapid” and “Summer Rain” proved to be awesome stomping songs giving us a glimpse of their ability and delivery, getting the crowed to stand up and actually get on the floor and appreciate them. A treat for me as there was a cute girl cladded in a purple dress, accompanied with equally cute boots... hmmm!!

The only love song in the set “My letter to you” was lyrically and melodically sound, great use of the toms on the drums. The drummers tonight certainly have been a treat.

“Come dig me out” and “Auntie in the green” were both well received and enjoyed by the venue patron and I.

Of one Design the winners of the Thornfest Band completion for 2009/10. Haven’t really been outwardly going out to see them as they are way too heavy for me as a general whole, but I have to say that they did draw the biggest floor crowd. Seems they have growing fan base, so no matter my personals likes, there will always be a market for any kind of music. But to be fair, they have improved by leas and bound an all levels in their delivery, response, stage presence (still needs work as too does the crowd interaction).

They took their audience on an infectious journey through the world they have created with riffs, break downs and well timed head bangs. Well done boys

The last band Red Letter Sunday that hails influences from the likes of Breaking Benjamin came flying in with the song

“Word on Peace” with interesting and even guitar work delivered across this song from Neil Ferreira on guitar and Andre Schoeman on Bass.

Brother of the guitarist is Gihaan Ferreira who teamed up with backing vocalist Andre to try bring forth their interpretations on lyrics original to this band.

The drumming of Sean Shuping, dominated by a double kicker was the finale in the quartet of this rocker band.

“Why” and “BACK AGAIN” their 2nd song and 3rd songs were good, showing the energy of the bassist, vox and drummer… Guit needs to match the energy

They, so far are not fantastic, but definitely are not shitty either. Original in their package

“Balled” came forth quite a bit as a soft melodic “lullaby-ish” type of song which I enjoyed

“No Sympathy”

“Taking a Guess”

Slight change of pace in the tune “New Beginning”, which abruptly started with bass and drums prevalent in sound accompaniment, changed pace near the end making this song a journey of its own. Vocal highs and lows together with the ddd-ddd-ddd-ddd-dddddum …(You had to be there) was pretty good.

My favourite song ”Business and usual” showed that these guys had a bit of talent and with a little coaching and a decent marketing plan can possibly make it in the industry and of this I will be happy……