HAVING not been to a gig for two weeks on account of being away, I was adamant that I would be checking out Basingstoke's favourite ska-punkers Ill Gotten Gains - regardless of how far I had to travel.
Fate was determined to thwart me with a visit to hospital, a succession of slow-moving vehicles ahead of me and inexplicably getting lost en route. Sorely tempted to turn back on more than one occasion, I carried on and was glad that I did.
One unfortunate consequence of my journey from hell is that I missed the first band - Radioactive Bones from Southampton. But fortunately I have seen them several times before, so I knew what I was missing.
They bill themselves as a "psychedelic punk dub space rock" band, which pretty much covers it, although I would drop the word "punk" as I have very strong views about what that means.
Next up were the one and only Ill Gotten Gains, playing only their second gig of the year, but this was the first opportunity I'd had to see them. I am pleased to report an awesome performance.
Within a couple of songs, my agitation from my journey had subsided and I was being bathed in the soothing barrage of some fast, loud, aggressive punk music. I was delighted to see the lads going down well with the crowd too.
Main support was Public Order Act from Swindon, who pretty much kept the punky, dub, reggae, ska vibe going. I have seen these guys a number of times before and they are always a big hit with the crowd.
It was actually a very good line-up all round with bands that were different, but complementary. The guys were tight and played a good solid set to a large responsive crowd.
The headline band were P.A.I.N (Propaganda And Information Network), a punk band who have been around for twenty odd years, although I have not encountered them before. Which could be something to do with where they come from, but I don't know where that is.
I was really impressed with these guys - mid tempo, mid heaviness, basic, unpretentious punk. They also have a hint of 'anarcho' about them. Worthy headliners, they went down a storm with the crowd.
Thanks to all the bands, to the promoters Pompey Punk Collective and to the manager and staff at the venue, for saving my Saturday night.
Neil Duncan, Issuepunkzine
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