Free-flow Live at Old Pint Pot Pub Salford
By eight thirty in The Old Pint Pot pub, Salford, a vast gaggle of students have squashed themselves into the venue’s top floor in anticipation for the latest in a long line of musical showcases. Each month ‘Free-flow Live’ brings together Salford University’s finest acts at the pub, which stands at the forefront of the Adelphi campus and is deemed to be the epicentre of its creative-minded sector. Despite minimal advertising, word of mouth means the event is packed every time, students occupying tables and stools or nestled in carpeted corners.
First up is Popular Musicology student Johnny Shelton, providing a short but intricately sweet acoustic set. A satisfying blend of covers and skilfully crafted original material eases onlookers into the event perfectly. Shelton’s jingly rendition of The Strokes’ ‘Heart in a Cage’ is particularly impressive, adding a relaxed element to an otherwise hectic tune.
The whining solos of second act For the Long Run are often reminiscent of The Pixies as they incorporate cheeky grooves, while the peculiar ‘Big Bear Hug’ includes creative, bizarre lyrics. Vocalist Amy Letitae cites her three major influences as Flyleaf, Coldplay, and Kate Bush; the latter, along with a dash of Amanda Palmer, is evident in her quirky vocal style. But also clear is that such a diverse smattering of musical influence allows the band – who are due to play the Manchester Academy on March 10th – to become satisfyingly varied in genre.
Equally mysterious four-piece Brothers and Sisters add a soulful ingredient to the evening, with a sprinkle of Janis Joplin covers and a dose of smoothly administered sass. The band combine occasional roaring guitar with suave, tip-toeing bass lines. Most striking is original track ’Please Retire’, an irresistible swaggering jaunt.
Final act Notion may be at times too playful to suggest a heavy influence from The Editors, but twisting back-seat riffs indicate at least a distant admiration. Clive Hammond’s vocals are occasionally a nudge to Oasis, with a little more force, while bassist Leon’s lines slump forward with effortless finesse.
Free Flow Live is an excellent opportunity for music-appreciative students to gather, socialise and explore the sounds of new bands. With any luck, this tradition can continue for many years to come.