The City Riot, The 211, The Knott and Theo Alteiri

So Friday 20th of February was the the lastest LOADED night from Swindon based band The City Riot, a monthly night of bands which they say 'aims to put on the most talked about indie bands in the South of England' and judging by the line-up for this one they're not going far wrong.

The 211 - www.myspace.com/the211uk
The 211 are the latest testament to the standard of younger bands around the town at the moment; Although to say they're the tighest band I've ever seen would be a lie, that doesn't seem to hold them back in any way. The 211 are a band that doesn't seem to take themselves too seriously and they're all the better for it, you can tell these boys are enjoying themselves, and you can't help but enjoy yoursef as a result. I think it would be fair to say they wear their influences for all to see, closely resembelling, but imitating none, from a long list of The Jam, The Who, The Small Faces and some newer indie counterparts. As the only band of the night to really get the crowd moving I can't urge you enough to get in on the act, pick up one of their E.P's and get yourself down to a gig, I challenge you to leave and not be singing 'Never Leave You' to anyone who'll listen for days afterwards.

Theo Alteiri - www.myspace.com/theoaltieri
In the nicest way possible, Theo Altieri is one of the most annoying people ever.
To be so naturally talented at such a young age makes you wonder why anyone else tries at all. At the tender age of just 12 Theo is already making waves and not just in this town. Last year he played Sugarhill festival, the Teenage Rampage tour and supported Russell Hastings. And things just look set to get better for him. Theo for me is the epitomy of easy listening, a genuinly good voice, great catchy lyrics and well played guitar. His songs are great, but my only criticism would be after the first few they do start to sound the same. As far as I know there's no plans for an E.P from this one so you really should get down to a gig before someone realises how good Theo is and whisks him away never to be seen again.

The Knott - http://www.theknott.co.uk/
This was the first time I'd seen the Knott, and I was definitely impressed. Although, the sound quality wasn't great on the night and that seemed to affect these boys the most. All of thes guys definitely know their way around their instruments and they do have a good, original sound to them, and it can't be denied lead singer Lee has a great voice and one hell of a stage presence.

The City Riot
Unfortunately I couldn't stick around to hear these boys (and apparently nor could many others) which is a shame because they put on a great night and the songs up on their myspace show promise for a good live show.

If this night was anything to go by I couldn't encourage you enough to get yourself down to the next one on the 27th March with The City Riot, Kestapo Khazi, Modela and Candyfist.