Science Rockets. Hamilton Station. May 14
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You've probably never heard of Science Rockets and that's not surprising. After rehearsing for a year in preparation for their debut performance, the gig was cancelled a week before the scheduled date due to the global pandemic and COVID restrictions.
That failure to launch could have been the end of the mission, instead it is where this story begins.
The band bunkered down and used the next 12 months to rehearse, record and refine their sound.
Documentation of this can be viewed on YouTube in their 2020 'Social Distance Sessions' video where band members individually recorded and filmed themselves to produce a high quality edited and mixed video:
While the physical world disconnected, the virtual world has become more connected than ever. Science Rockets also released their first single Kintsugi during COVID. The mixdown of the track was mastered at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London and the video was outsourced to an international graphic designer/animator via a popular online freelance services marketplace.
Having played only two other gigs since restrictions have eased, one at Lizotte's and an in-store appearance at Hiss & Crackle,
Vocalist/guitarist Matt West said they were really happy to be playing their first pub gig at the Hamilton Station hotel.
Despite the chilly autumn evening the back room at the pub had enough enthusiastic audience members to feel very much like a post social distancing show.
Science Rockets' performance was tight and well rehearsed, band members looked very comfortable on stage and with each other. Considering their limited number of live performances, they proved time during isolation had been well spent. They exhibited the level of confidence and cohesion seen in bands playing or touring regularly.
The sound was BIG. Listing bands such as Secret Machines, Interpol, The Cure, Foals, Nothing but Thieves and Depeche Mode as reference points it is apparent from where inspiration is drawn. Their sound is by no means derivative and posses an energy and passion that is unique.
Dan Cordrey on bass and Karl Bennet on drums established a rock solid foundation on which guitarists Matthew West, Dave Evans and Sharn Crossdale built the multi-layered and textured wall of sound. Matt Wests' vocals blended perfectly to complete the expansive soundscape. Is three guitars too many? In this case the answer is no! The rich and complex sound created by the guitars and digital effects was was well balanced and it never sounded like any of the parts were superfluous.
Also worth mentioning was the Emo inspired, melodic, dream-pop support act: Not Good, Not Bad. Fronted by siblings Timothy and Taleah Hinchey this band's name really does understate their potential.
If you are interested in live music and supporting the local industry both these bands are well worth the effort - follow them on social media and go to one of their gigs!