Issue 155

Viva La Abertawe!

14th May 2007

Venue: Hard Rock Cafe, Cardiff
Date: Thursday 3 May
Rating: 4/5

The Hard Rock Cafe in the centre of Swansea was the venue for a gig that was organised in aid of a charity that supports young musicians. The line-up boasted the unusual billing of The Automatic acting as support for the Swansea-based band Viva Machine. Opening the night's entertainment were an evolving acoustic-rock four-piece from Weston-Super-Mare, iNGLIS, who were pleasant if somewhat a little out of place.

The Automatic then took over the reigns and played a frantic, energetic set that lasted 25 minutes, including their three hit singles, Raoul, Recover and, of course, Monster. Although The Automatic proved to be a big crowd-puller on the night, it was still disappointing to see half the crowd leave when Viva Machine stepped on stage.

But, thankfully, the headliners didn't notice and appeared undaunted by following a band of The Automatic's stature. They are one of the most highly rated bands on the circuit, certainly in the South Wales region, and their live performances prove why more people are starting to take notice of Viva Machine. Energetic, yet tuneful, the only way is up for this band, and surely big things are in store for these Swansea prodigies.

Miss these two bands at the Summer Ball at your peril.

Waterfront Online