Constellation

Thomas Tripp, Christchurch

It’s all quiet in the Thomas Tripp as “Constellation” are tuning up for their first appearance at this venue. As its my local I have come to see how they fare in front of a sparse “locals” crowd. Constellation’s regular massive female following seems to have deserted them tonight but they soldier on. Tonight’s set is largely culled from their extensive back catalogue with a smattering of covers thrown in for good measure.

Four songs in we get a “slowed down” version of Feeder’s “Buck Rogers” which does not really sit well with this reviewer as I’m a big “Feeder” fan. Thankfully their own songs hit the mark. When they “attempt” the Stereophonics “Dakota” there’s a slight improvement, but this is a cover better left to Bournemouth’s The Frequency! And this is where my criticism ends.

You see Constellation are a band who will prosper on the strength of their own material, it really is that simple. Ali (vox) is a confident front man with a great band behind him,and where in the past I have complimented the drums, it’s the guitars that take centre stage tonight. On songs like “Regrets” and “Waster” they are at their very best, while the sentiment of “Flower Song” will always have its appeal. The Kooks “Always Where I Need To Be” is a great cover for Ali’s vocal and Kings of Leon’s “Sex on Fire” goes down a storm. Ali’s dance moves once again punctuate the middle 8’s but I’d rather that than a statue! What following they have brought with them are shouting for “Chelsea Dagger” on the encore, but its new single “Valentine” that takes the plaudits. For a first appearance at this venue it appears to be a winner. One can only hope they are afforded a weekend slot in future. Next big things? Already big!

Setlist
Flower Song
Waster
Oh Ah Ah
Buck Rogers(Feeder)
Dont Call Me
Constellation
Gone Tomorrow
Dakota(Stereophonics)
Dont Stop The Music
Regrets
Sex On Fire(Kings Of Leon)
Set Me Alight
Loop The Loop
Always Where I Need To Be(The Kooks)
Today And Forever

Encore
Chelsea Dagger(The Fratellis)
Valentine

http://www.constellationband.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/constellationonline

Review and pictures by Ross Ferrone.