Monday 21^st May 2012

Oberhofer with support from Shinies

On a hot evening in May, I made my way to the top floor of Manchester’s Deaf Institute.
Sitting around the outdoor roof terrace, were members of Manchester band Shinies. Later questioning revealed they named themselves after shiny football stickers. Rare, sought out items you are lucky to find.

They played a few tracks to an under capacity crowd, joking with the audience in between songs.
At one point, the lead vocalist commented ‘you look how I feel.’ In fairness, I didn’t look that bad, so I will take it as a compliment. Shinies put together a blistering set of noisy indie pop, quick paced with ruthless drums and warm basslines. The guitar parts were tight, one time swapping lead vocal. It was loud. The sound engineer did a good job. My ears are still ringing. Next time I will wear protection.

Oberhofer are named after singer, songwriter and musician Brad Oberhofer. His band came together in Brooklyn, New York a few years ago.

When Oberhofer came on, the audience moved forwards towards the stage. The natural light had already faded into a low gloom. The music they played was emotional. Soaring vocals and guitars, underpinned with broken beats and an awesome clanky xylophone.

‘Dead Girls Dance’ brought the night to a climax.

You should definitely check these guys out. Listen to ‘I Could Go’ and ‘Gotta Go.’

Words by Alastair Schwarz