The Rumble Strips - Live
[Manchester Apollo]

Things have levelled out for Charles Waller’s Tavistock troupe, The Rumble Strips since the release of their buoyant, big-sounding, horn nudged debut album, ‘Girls And Weather’ (review link). This offering has now been reduced to £5 in most typical music stores. They didn’t comply with the sound of the time, but in their live shows they would demonstrate a deep appreciation for their roots, incorporating a kicking cover of Thin Lizzy’s ‘The Boys Are Back In Town’ and have earned a reputation for being bold and genuine.

Now that they have caught the ears of Mr Mark Ronson (who they are supporting tonight - read a review of his set here), things are looking up starting to take shape. Tonight they lean towards A full bodied pop with a less amplified ska base, in order to draw in a more mainstream following. Rhythmic anthem, ‘Alarm Clock’ spews out defiance and laziness, as well as containing more of a horn thrust. Waller’s vocals seem a little more polished and it is something that is contributing to the increasing applause, as they gain a tighter grip on tonight’s demographically ranging crowd.

Even though their debut album was released last year, this enthusiastic reception and a new found association with Mark Ronson. Could render 2008 the year that The Rumble Strips fully expand upon their enthusiastic, bold sounding, ska/psychobilly and slight folk base and fulfil initial expectations?