Yellowgroove

The Hobbit, Southampton

If you’ve come across The Hobbit in the news recently, you’ll know that they have hit hard times following legal problems related to the release of the new Hobbit film; but nevertheless the Southampton based venue is continuing to maintain its superb reputation following support from the likes of Stephen Fry and Frank Turner.

After travelling up with Yellowgroove, they excitedly told me about how tonight’s show is their first chance to offer their fans a glimpse of new songs off their forthcoming debut album, which derived from a recent cottage induced song writing venture.
The band seem composed as they prepare for a sound check in the intimate section of the venue devoted for live music, and as they disappear to setup their mountains of gear, I take the chance to sample an “Aragon” cocktail and catch-up with a friend. When the show finally gets going, it’s instantly noted that Yellowgroove are one of the most distinguished bands for the atmosphere pumped around the venue. The Hobbits’ quirky, alternative house party feel coincides with the bands folklore fuelled blues rock, as a drinking crowd stays put for two hours of top class entertainment.

Simon Stevens is on top form as usual, executing his accomplished vocals and eclectic, yet confident stage presence to extreme heights; whilst also achieving to hit someone in the face with his bass guitar for the second time; following my attempt to pick him up resulting in simply chucking him at an unexpecting girl (by accident of course). It’s also nice to see Ben Embery’s vocal input jacked up, as his performance seems to have been injected with conviction. It’s the upbeat numbers such as “Manimal” and a cover of “Teenage Kicks” which really raise the crowds blood pressure, but their new songs seem sharp and already well rehearsed onstage despite their status as debut performances on the night. It’s also great to see lead guitarist, Mark Leybourne and drummer, Chris Tybjerg’s enthusiastic faces light up as they rattle off guitar solos and drum fills with exquisite style.

Quite honestly, I have never seen a band hold a crowd for two hours like Yellowgroove managed to. Their outstanding confidence, warm atmosphere given off and set list comprising of endless pulsating blues rock bangers made it impossible for them to fail tonight. If you want to see an eccentric, hard working outfit working their socks off and producing endless entertainment, then pour yourself a pint and checkout Yellowgroove; they have big things heading their way.