GBH
with the Samples & Borrowed Time
7th September – The Marrs Bar, Worcester
Clearly, the Samples were more than happy to be back on home turf at Marr’s bar. The Rickenbacker was slung low, the Gibson was held high and their human Lister engine was primed behind the drums at the back of the stage- on a school night too.
And the low-ceilinged room was filled with a year-group whose disregard for when their homework was due, was noticeable.
Politics is now lazily reduced to three word slogans – “Stop the boats,” “Take back control,” “Get Brexit Done,” – with Trump showing off his erudite command of language with a four word slogan: “Make America Great Again.” Ironically, for those schooled in original punk the past anthems of political discord were covered in three word slogans, in much the same way but with more conviction and belief…
“All you Governments,” opened the Samples alternative bath night and the following assured performance was both convincing and instilled with self-belief. “Thatcher’s Boot Boys” triggered stabbing fingers, “The Red Wall” contrasted with a more reflective sentiment and the highly enjoyable “I just wanna dance again” encouraged some dubious pogoing. One cover provoked a stage invasion from an individual desperate for a singalong with “Bad Hearts” and the closing cover of SLF’s “Suspect Device” was complemented by individuals that never joined in with school assemblies.
Refreshingly, the Samples do not take themselves seriously and the on-stage interaction between Paz Smith (bass) and Dave Evans (guitar) regarding women’s underwear (sic) brought forth chuckles from those appreciative of school boy humour. Jake Powell their increasingly assured drummer joined in with the self-deprecating Carry on, even with “a tiny blister”.
The Samples were clearly appreciative of the chance to support the blistering GBH, “Badger would have loved this…”
Coming from the second city and proud of the fact, there is only one word to describe GBH live; a single word that captures their speed-street-punk succinctly; a word which reflects how the band juggernauts its way through their gigs. Guilty as charged, GBH are relentless.
In a world of neutral colours, Love Island, Greg Wallace, out of town shopping, “Love laugh Live,” and doppelganger housing estates GBH live are as memorable as the one teacher who made a difference.
GBH’s Scott Preece makes a difference on the drums, with his thunderous engine room antics, ensuring his tattooed arms are a mere inky blur. At least those running the Northern run in the morning were given a medal and a foil cape for finishing the half marathon. The energy expended by the drummer must have equated to a full marathon?
The band sprinted effortlessly through – belying their age – a musical legacy that began in the late 70s. With his microphone held-high and head held-back signature stance, Colin Abrahall, undertakes his role like a fire and brimstone head teacher. The songs were rattled off like names that the headteacher would like to see after assembly…Bellend Bop, Maniac, War Dogs, Gunned down, and Heavy Discipline…
“Gunned down” was dedicated to the Orange one (with a special mention of Farage) and “War Dogs” acknowledged the passing of Ozzy Osbourne. GBH are keen on dedications. The connection between GBH and their audience is mightily impressive. Shout-outs for individuals ensure a connection and Jack must have been very happy to have his birthday remembered! Looking the part of a modern day folk-devil – with a tattooed cranium – the sight of guitarist, Jock Blyth, blowing kisses to audience members was unapologetically sweet.
The sweet natured Mosh-pit was filled with a mish-mash of contrasting body shapes. The whole scene filled with more hand-shakes, ready smiles, eager grins and apologies than any threat of ABH. The girls regardless of age were treated with respect and the atmosphere was one of inclusivity, fundamentally lacking in today’s school playgrounds. And the only way I can capture the scene is with the one word inked across the bassist Mopsy’s back…Family.
By: Swilgate Scuttler
Photos: Sean Sheridan @the_seansheridan
Ps Apologies to Borrowed Time whose support slot I missed due to logistical reasons.