Thumpers – KOKO, London 15/03/13

Genres are ever-evolving and multiplying. One might be forgiven for believing these increasingly weird and wonderful musical brackets are simply an excuse for artists to set themselves apart from the crowd, but sometimes genre defying bands do come along and demand as such; Thumpers are one such band.

The London-based duo emerged in the latter half of 2012 from the remnants of “art school, indie rock“, Pull Tiger Tail into the ‘co-ed alt. pop’ of their new project. The online appearance of ‘Sound of Screams’ 6 months or so ago set the tone, displaying rhythmic ingenuity, pop-infused melodies and an enthused, joyful tone. This exciting cocktail, which brought about comparisons with the likes of The Maccabees and even Arcade Fire, was positively head-turning and refreshing from first listen. There is something spirited and anthemic about it, signalling an effortless translation onto the live stage.

A headline London show at KOKO’s Club NME is a perfectly suitable setting for Thumpers, as their youthful sound is matched by sprightly exuberance from a teeming dance-floor. Smokey orange lights match the heart-warming layers that are thrown out from the stage. Being integral to the noise they’re championing, the drum-kit sits alongside guitar as the duo are surrounded by supporting singers and backed by electronic supplement, further filling out this big sound they make.

‘Dancing’s Done’, their debut single, released by Kissability at the beginning of February, is ideal for the club atmosphere with its uplifting chorus-enormous. As debut singles go, it is certainly one of the more exciting from a UK guitar band to surface this year, and sounds as uplifting amongst the revelry as it does on record, signaling their festival intent. Similarly, the aforementioned ‘Sound of Screams’ is a real highlight; the track wastes no time reaching its climax and highlights again their brilliant use of rhythm. Considering its moments of complexity, the band are tightly in sync and the backing singers add soul and something extra to the riff-based pop.

The show also gives them the opportunity to show-off new tracks, and take our word when we say there is plenty more to come. They are completely on the right track and serve as another UK band proving that indie pop is the way to go. This KOKO show is another early triumph in the Capital – it really is Thumpers by name and by nature.

Photograph by Sara Amroussi-Gilissen