The Pigeon Detectives at Dingwalls

The Pigeon Detectives have just completed their 4th album and I am afraid they aren't as popular as they once were. However, the good news is also that they aren't as popular as they were. Hence they were playing Dingwalls, a 500 capacity venue at Camden Lock. Its really just a bar at the back with four small tiers descending towards a modest stage at the end.

First off are what seemed a really nice bunch of lads called Hares. I even bought their debut EP, Coastlines. Hope they go far. They sounded fine, but a long, long way to go before anyone is going to notice them. And a struggle at the start - it felt like being in class at school - no one wanted to be at the front (in contrast to the end of the gig - as you will see).

Next up the Must. Clearly a more experienced band, a tighter sound, but nothing to get too excited about.

But we got excited by the Pigeon Detectives. Just totally mad in such a small venue where there is really no gap between band and audience  And that's what makes it such a delight. Just the sheer enthusiasm of both band and audience. Their lead singer bounced around on stage as much as the cramped space would allow, but then launched himself into a bit of crowd surfing. Just a very pleasant bit of mayhem, which suits the frenetic music. Had a great night. But I just can't imagine the Pigeon Detectives in another 10 years time. This is a young man's game, and the Pigeon Detectives aren't going to get any younger.