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A band with a piano player can rarely escape comparisons with Coldplay, and Lift are no exception; there is a definite hint of the Chris Martin in several of their songs. Their singer however, better suits comparison with James Walsh of Starsailor, having both an extremely similar voice, and melancholy tunes. Lift start out well, the band are all clearly enthusiastic about their music in spite of the fact the guitarist obviously wants to be in a band where he can headbang a little bit. However, as the set progresses (and it’s only half an hour), it seems to drag a little as the songs merge into one another, being, in fact, extremely similar. However, new song 'Let You Go' is clearly the set highlight, and indicates that Lift may yet impress future crowds by a set containing both good tunes, and diversity.
The last time I saw Mull Historical Society play was 3 years ago at T in the Park, where I was impressed by the music, but transfixed by the keyboard player, who is both talented and completely insane. Tonight however, there is no chance of singer/songwriter Colin MacIntyre being upstaged by anyone, not even the dog wig immortalised on the cover of debut album 'Loss', which he gives to a girl in the audience to wear. Playing a fairly well balanced mixture of his three albums to date, all of which are greeted with great enthusiasm by a packed Lemon Tree, MacIntyre exhibits his ability to entertain and involve his audience. There are plenty of people jumping up and down along with the keyboard player’s thrashing hands, and very few people not singing along. The best-received track is undoubtedly 'Watching Xanadu', which has the whole place jumping. MacIntyre displays his refusal to rest on his laurels with old tunes by throwing an electronic interlude into the middle of the song. Overall, the gig is an extremely crowd pleasing experience, with MacIntyre endeavouring to play requests he can no longer even remember the words to. It is also clear from the new material, and it’s reception, that Mull Historical Society are slowly building themselves a reputation, a loyal fanbase, and an exceptional back catalogue of music.
