The Marionettes
Genre // Indie
Members //
Paddy Buchanan
Daryl Rankin
Derek Stewart
Thomas Emslie
Pete Taylor
Hometown //Aberdeen
Record label // Bedford Records
MARIONETTES @ PIVO PIVO | GIG REVIEW
by Angela Hewitt
About
Frantic indie pop music with a slight punk like edge anyone? The 'Marionettes' are specialists in melodic hook based tunes with fast paced tempos, coupled with cutting social commentary.
Having circulated Scotland's music scene since 2007, the 'Marionettes' have developed their sound and supported the likes of The Joy Formidable, Errors, 1990s, The Wave Pictures, The Parlotones, Sky Larkin, The Ordinary Boys and Japanese Voyeurs. Currently on tour across the UK the 'Marionettes' continue to write new material as they go.
Review
Back in Pivo Pivo I had the delightful pleasure of listening to the 'Marionettes'. Possibly one of the happiest bands I've ever seen on stage. However before I get into how entertaining they were I should point out the two acts that preceded them.
'Fuzzy Wuzzy was a Woman' need a mention for the simple fact their lyrics amused me 'You wanna hit me all over' - ok so not thought provoking lyrics but definitely entertaining. Formed in 2007, 'Fuzzy Wuzzy was a Woman' have progressed from a humble washboard and spoon playing quartet, gigging old folks homes to a rock band for the sensory deprived. This quirky band had a rocky upbeat kind of sound. With a powerful lead vocalist, military drums and an eccentric attitude that just works on stage. They might not be as well known; nevertheless they do leave a lasting impression.
The second offering 'Dalzel' were (and here I go being all patronising again) adorable. The best way to describe 'Dalzel' would be a slightly unconventional rock three piece, with a singer whose voice really needs to be heard to be truly appreciated. The vocals on this boy are both haunting and hypnotic, certainly worth a mention in this review.
Now that I have done my duty and mentioned the two other acts (like I said I would) I can now in good conscious wax lyrical about the 'Marionettes'. And wax lyrical I shall.
Even though the typical Glasgow audience were harsh in their banter, the 'Marionettes' (hailing from Aberdeen) continued to smile, and instead of bantering back just laughed it off. Performing songs from their new EP entitled 'The Rightness of Blindness' they immediately gained the crowds respect.
Concentrating solely on the three songs from the EP 'Dishwipe Fishwife' appeared to be a crowd pleaser. With its sweet melodic beginning, pleasant on the ear and almost tickling the guitar the listener is instantly put at ease. Then the song quickly changes to a frantic riff and 'Biffy Clyro' style vocals. There is a distinct 'Arctic Monkeys' vibe to this song, almost like a watered down version of 'I Bet That You Look Good on the Dance Floor'. Unobtrusive with a summery festival feel 'Dishwipe Fishwife' ticks all the right boxes.
'Panda Bears' came next and straight off the bat the audience were thrust into a frenzied guitar riff, fast drums and an extremely catchy hook of 'Don't be scared' that I promise you is very difficult to get out of your head after hearing. Not for one minute am I suggesting that that is a bad thing, quite on the contrary in fact. 'Panda Bears' is one of those tunes that upon hearing makes you feel like you instantly know it. As the band has such a positive energy on stage you can't help but be swept up by the fast-pace, catchy lyrics; making for an instant crowd favourite.
Finishing off with 'Horroscopes' which undeniably is the most pop sounding of the three, the 'Marionettes' managed to close the gig with an uplifting tone and feel. 'Horroscopes' is certainly not as fast-paced as say 'Panda Bears' but what it lacks in speed it more than makes up for in melody and rhythm. By cleverly using memorable hooks and a summer festival vibe this musical offering showcases all the bands talents respectively, without overpowering the listener. Not my personal favourite but a good song nonetheless.
With a mixture of insanely catchy hooks, intricate guitar melodies fused with indie pop and rock there's sure to be something to appeal to the avid listener. Engaging on stage with an infectious energy it is evident why the 'Marionettes' are so popular.
The 'Marionettes' are young, fun and full of talent, making the most of their gifts by cleverly balancing out great lyrical content with lively upbeat music. Their energy and tenacity on stage is what I feel will keep the crowds coming back for more in years to come.
