Up and strumming

Larrikin Love at Kings College, 7th June 2006

Folk, punk, ska, reggae, fiddly-pop a la Dexys Midnight Runners circa 1982- exactly how many cultural influences do these guys need? Luckily for us the different rhythems blend together effortlessly tonight at the kiddie-jungle that is the Kings College (four flights up and no lift! GSG got plenty of impromptu exercise on her mission to sample the musical delights of the Larrikin Love universe, oh yes). The result is a seductive package; rich in content and surprisingly well-developed in style. The toe-tapping calypso-fusion is irresistible, infectious and incendiary, and the members of the band are all great, charismatic performers. Lead singer, Edward Larrikin is a particularly crowd-pleasing boy-genius and the supporting performers (tonight a trombonist and girlie guest singer) add to the feeling of spontaneity, generosity, and inclusiveness. All hail the Larrikins! And Kooks, take note- this is what a real up and coming band with potential (long-lasting not transitory) looks like. GSG.