The Rainband are a band in total control of pace, setting and style. Everything they do exudes confidence and their music shows a refreshing variation.
A tight set at Academy 2 needs no introduction, led by error-free guitar and thrashing drums that invite a total sense of rhythm. Martin Finnigan’s
vocals offer an exuberance and allure, while the maintenance of speed through certain tunes is hugely impressive.
The presence of a session pianist adds another tone to the delivery and back up an act that really suits the scale of what they produce.
At times the composition of their tunes seems a bit too familiar and lacks in a major impact, but musically their songs are superb and a brilliant rapport with the crowd creates a buoyant mood around a fairly packed room
Alone is arguably the standout track of the night, a synth-led intro leading into a sublimely inventive energy, a folky number that displays a fantastic alliance of guitars, vocals and drums.
The charisma on show is testament to the band’s confidence on the live scene, and though some songs feel more suited to background music as opposed to something more zealous, there are some really memorable long notes here and a decent bite on bass.
As the set draws to a close it becomes clear how thoughtfully constructed The Rainband’s music is, as a couple of more relaxed tunes provide a balance to the gig, as shades of Red Hot Chili Peppers creep into the guitaring.
An encore is certainly justified here to round up a charming and upbeat night that more than justifies the £10 ticket, The Rainband delivering a highly professional and memorable set. With a catalogue of great tunes and a great live presence, it’s becoming a real pleasure to watch these lads make their mark on Manchester’s music
Words by Alan White
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