Red Stripe Music Awards
Zanzibar Club, Liverpool
19/02/2010

It’s Liverpool’s round for the Red Stripe Music Awards and it’s back to the Zanzibar Club once more as six local acts take to the stage. Kicking off proceedings is Lee Broderick, who is usually accompanied by a backing band but tonight he plays solo. He’s a young singer/songwriter with a smooth, soaring voice like a one-man Turin Brakes. Particular favourites in his repertoire include ‘For The Last Time’, ‘Give Me A Reason’ and ‘Pistol Woman’, a song about a prostitute.

Second on are indie stompers Lupin Thieves, who introduce themselves via their own theme song ‘We Are The Lupin Thieves’. Lead singer Terry Cowley has perhaps the most brilliantly peculiar singing voice we’ve heard since JJ72. They’re followed by The Sterlings with their ace pop-punk riffs and melodies. They’re like New Found Glory via The La’s, with huge irresistible riffs in songs like ‘Last Man Standing’ and ‘The Modern Age.’ Ashville are on next with their Coral-like knack for 1960’s style folk with a modern twist and a small dose of eccentric acoustic pop jangle. Pristeen are led by Paul Cullen who has a magnificently huge vocal presence, hitting the big notes perfectly. He makes the chorus on ‘Control It All’ sound momentous along with the driving rhythm and pounding drums. They also play the second song about prostitution of the night.

Finally, Ellis & The Cardinals, not to be confused with Erland & The Carnival, are the most charismatic band of the night. Choosing to dress up for the occasion, onstage is a prisoner, a YMCA-style biker and Hugh Hefner. They play riotous punk rock made for house parties with songs like ‘Let’s Get Drunk’ and ‘Sluts and Pussy’ and tonight promise a Beatles cover but jokingly play Destiny’s Child’s ‘Say My Name’ instead. They come with their very own Bez-like troupe of followers who dance around stage and get the audience involved. It certainly makes for an entertaining end to the night.

Dave Machine