Dykeenies + Alvarez Kings

After a shaky start to the year involving a night and room change, Club NME seems to be back in popularity amongst Sheffield's indie kids. Tonight it plays host to local lads Alvarez Kings and Glasgow emo new-ravers Dykeenies, in the usual two band late night disco format.

For a band that claims to be riding high on the UK live scene, a support slot at Club NME seems hardly likely to raise Alvarez Kings to a new level. However, following shows with the likes of the Kooks, Arctic Monkeys and Clor alongside an exciting new EP, expectation runs high for the well-tailored five piece. There certainly seems to be a lot of interest, with a sizeable crowd assembled by the time they take to the stage. Despite not quite being able to capture the excitement of listening to their EP the band provide satisfying renditions of their repertoire. Unfortunately where Alverez Kings go wrong is in their stage behaviour. Although front man Simon Pashley's enthusiasm is admirable, his presence seems forced and even a little desperate. Leaping onto the speaker stack and brandishing a cow bell in almost every song, he's obviously playing to the rock and roll stereotype rather than the crowd. Even though the rest of the band weren't quite as animated, they still managed to crowd around drummer Rich Walker for an ill-conceived group drum solo that wasn't nearly as interesting as it could have been. Unfortunately what could have been a tight, exciting set was overshadowed by an unfocused and gimmick-ridden performance.

Those who don't already know The Dykeenies may be a little confused by the name, especially when there are more Argyle sweaters on the stage than Doc Martins. In stark contrast to Alvarez Kings, Dykeenies give a solid, charming and thoroughly enjoyable performance. Blurring the lines between early Idlewild, Panic! at the Disco and The Killers tonight's set is full of strong tunes embroidered with a pop edge. Lead singer Brian Henderson engages well with the crowd, not trying too hard to impress, letting his own natural charm and the music speak for itself. Whilst enjoyable and certainly lots of fun, The Dykeenies didn't necessarily capture the imagination of the audience, leaving an overall pleasant, if a little forgettable, impression.