Temples at Shepherds Bush Empire

Sadly I was alone for this gig as my mate bailed last minute, but it did let me concentrate on the music, and getting some photos. So lets get stuck in.

Openers were, to be honest, a bit shit. There is a reason people don't write songs about economic matters. While Metal has almost infinite sub-genres, Socio-Economic Metal has still to be invented. Songs like Tax Return and Shrinkflation are novel, but only lyrically. The music was just a bit mundane. So sorry "Unexpected Gains" didn't offer me much in the way of gains, expected or otherwise.

 I wasn't expecting a second support, so was very pleasantly surprised when one turned up, and they were really good. They we Spanish, but they either didn't announce themselves, or did but the lead vocalist's charming, but strong Spanish accent may have meant I missed it. I think they were something like Bedo. So not sure I can track them down again which is a pity as they were great. Singer had beautiful voice, and the band seemed tight with a fine indie sound.

That set things up rather well for Temples, touring to support their their third album, Hot Motion. Having seen them a number of times, I have to say they are definitely improving as a live act. Lead vocalist James Bagshaw isn't perhaps the most charismatic of front men, but then at least he isn't distracting either. And if you like psychedelic rock this is probably the best being created now.

 For their Encore they just played a long version of Mesmerise, jamming with the Spanish support act. But too prog rock for me, but nice bonhomie.

Bagshaw then wandered off the front of the stage to indulge in a bit of stage diving, which was nice touch.