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I don't want to sound like I'm having a bit of a mad rant, but I have to say that we certainly don't seem to support and promote great young unsigned bands in this country like we should. People will search in the furthest reaches of Detroit or New Zealand or New York for the next White Stripes or Yeah Yeah Yeahs or whoever, but surely we are forgetting that something very special could be growing in our own back yard. It's a real shame, honestly, especially when our homegrown talent is as good as Neils Children.
Hailing originally from Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, Neils Children are comprised of guitarist/vocalist John Linger, bassist/vocalist James Hair and drummer Brandon Jacobs. They've been producing their own brand of freakbeat-inspired new wave punk since 2000, playing numerous shows in the UK and Europe in that time. During their three years of gigging, they have developed a most original and unique sound. A sound that, whilst tipping its hat to the classic British psych bands of the 60's and punk bands of the 70's, is entirely fresh and new. Think the excitement and feedbacking squall of the Creation, the punk-pop sensibility of Pete Shelley and the Buzzcocks, and the avant-garde angular art noise of 'Entertainment' era Gang of Four all mixed into one tight package and you'd be in the right neighbourhood.
Visually, Neils Children are quite a dynamic bunch, John and James laying down some nice Townsend-esque moves, without being cheesy mind, while Brandon literally pummels his kit. Sonically, they provide exactly what you would want from a great rock n roll outfit, playing tight and rhythmically whilst leaving enough space for their music to breathe. Distorted bass and guitar effects are used sparingly throughout, adding a nice psychedelic depth and post-punk edge to their sound, without sounding clichéd or retro. On songs like 'Come Down' and 'Perpetual Midnite (Day by Day)', both currently available in MP3 format from their website, they combine sharp verses with anthemic choruses that are catchier than a bad case of the flu. It is readily apparent that Neils Children could indeed be the perfect antidote to some of the lethargically dull bands currently doing the rounds.
A lot of punters won't fork out to see a band that hasn't been packaged and presented to them by the publicity department of a major record label. Yet that mentality would see many people miss out on an exciting band like Neils Children. With a new EP coming out soon and a growing following, I'm sure though that it's only a matter of time before more people take notice of them. Give them a look if you get a chance, you won't be disappointed. For more information, photos and sound clips visit website at www.neilschildren.co.uk.
Upcoming Dates:
August 12th - Archway Tavern, London
August 17th - Joiners, Southampton
Photo courtesy of neilschildren.co.uk
