13/5/2009 Patchwork Grace & Plastic Toys @ The Fly

Subject	Patchwork Grace & Plastic Toys @ The Fly
PostedDate	5/13/2009
	Two gigs I want to go to in one night again, and this time they're miles apart instead of both being in Camden. Still, where there's a will there's a way... I'm off to the West End first, where Plastic Toys open the Pure Rawk bill at The Fly. This venue is much improved now they have put a bar in downstairs where the bands play. I'm not too sure they've put the bar in the right place as it's where the stage used to be - now if you want to get to the toilet you have to push your way through the crowd in front of the stage. I wasn't that impressed when I checked out Plastic Toys online, but having seen them live a couple of times now I think they are much better than my initial impression. With the electronic part of their sound pushed more into the background they are far more 'in your face' and it is more apparent that they actually have some good songs. Patchwork Grace have plenty of good songs and their album is excellent. They have a good image as well, but can be a bit hit and miss live depending on the venue and sound mix. Tonight's London show is definitely 'hit' and they rise to the occasion well. The sound isn't great, but the band seem to enjoy playing to a full venue and I'm sure they win quite a few new fans over with their Queen Adreena meets The Cure and Mötley Crüe down a dark alley vibe. Tonight's headliner at The Fly is Acey Slade, but after Patchwork Grace finish their set I'm out of here to see someone of the opposite sex who is not only easier on the eye (nothing against Acey who has plenty of adoring girlie fans) but also who's voice is much easier on the ears. Fortunately the tube is working reasonably well for once as I head from London's glamorous west end over to the trendy east end... Stay tuned pop pickers!

PS: This venue is now closed.