Bands you should be listening to #3: LIFE







As an obvious fan of indie music, unsigned Hull punk four-piece 'LIFE' possess every quality I love in a band. They are politically charged, gritty, energetic, incredible live, absolutely fucking mental, and most importantly, produce great music.

It is fair to say that there are numerous bands currently on the scene who possess a strong opinion on current affairs and political happenings. Like VANT, LIFE make the best of a bad situation, and tackle the pandemonium within a number of their songs from their absurdly impressive debut album 'Sugar God'. LIFE act as a voice for every young musician in the country, by using their ever growing reputation as a platform to get their important message across. The song 'In Your Hands' possesses a particularly powerful message, which I can only presume was written in homage to Jeremy Corbyn's recent Labour campaign.

Their live shows are wild, lively and somewhat aggressive. The sheer showmanship of full time frontman and part time Duracell Bunny, Mez, is utterly mesmerising. His strange dancing and severely gritty vocals, coupled with his eccentric dress-sense makes for an intriguing watch. Not to mention his simply hilarious politically charged monologues in-between songs. In addition to lead guitarist Mick's high-spirited and bouncy style, drummer Stew's pulsating beat and quite honestly the coolest bassist I have laid eyes on- Loz. The charisma and stage presence of the four together makes LIFE one of the most impressive live bands I have seen in the last year.

LIFE are a hard working band, who have self produced the entirety of their musical content, making their current success that tiny bit sweeter. Doing so adds a sense of individuality and exclusivity that I'm sure many bands strive for. Although this may have financial implications, LIFE are constantly touring and keeping themselves busy, which more than makes up for the lack of a record deal.

When first laying eyes on LIFE when they supported Slaves on their UK tour last winter, I knew I had found a new favourite band, and seemingly began to listen to them on a daily basis. The songs 'Sugar God' and 'Rare Boots' being personal favourites, as well as crowd pleaser 'Popular Music'. 

For LIFE, bands such as Slaves prove that being unique and different can lead to success in the world of indie music. Music fans such as myself are constantly craving different sounds and bands which possess a sense of originality in their image and sound. Bands in the same mould as LIFE keep music exciting and gives us a reason to believe that guitar music is still as relevant as it always has been.

With  a new album out, a long string of upcoming gigs and an incredibly positive attitude, LIFE are on their way up. I have faith that one day they will be alongside Slaves on a festival lineup, rather than underneath them. 

In the meantime, if you wish to catch a live set, LIFE are embarking on a UK tour supporting Nadine Shah, which kicked off in Gateshead on the 10th of October. Coincidentally, they play the massively  popular Brudenell Social Club in Leeds tonight, which is just a short walk from where I currently live. If you wish to catch them at a venue closer to home, I would strongly encourage you to. You will not be disappointed.

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