24/10/2019 Saint Agnes @ Dingwalls

It doesn't happen very often, but sometimes a band comes along who manage to build a strong underground following with virtually NO radio play or media attention - ignored by even the 'rock' press. One such band is Saint Agnes. No advertising budget or media hype, but all their London shows sell out in advance. This one was no exception. The modern day Dingwalls is much larger than in used to be the 1970's and '80's, but tonight it is full. The atmosphere is electric before the band take to the stage - a Saint Agnes gig is more than just a show - it's an event.

In the gloom a shadowy figure with a large round head appears on the stage in silence. The tension builds - there is menace in the air. The figure's 'head' is pulled off to reveal the head of the band's bass player - and then it all kicks off! There is a distinct air of darkness in the room, but this is no Goth band. Not exactly anyway - this feels like something far more creepy and dangerous. The band explode into life - or is it death? This is rock 'n' roll at it's most dark and primal - satanic even. But not in a Black Sabbath way. Yes, the music is heavy, but it's not heavy metal. There is a strong blues feel, but darker and heavier than Led Zeppelin at their bluesiest, although there is a definite Led Zep vibe. There is also a very dramatic and theatrical feel, but without being as obvious and 'showbiz' as Alice Cooper - there is something darker and more sinister afoot here.

They say the Devil has all the best tunes, and tonight the evidence is clear for all to see. Songs like 'The Witching Hour', 'Move Like A Ghost', and 'Diablo, Take Me Home' give you a pretty good idea where they are coming from.

Singer, and sometimes guitarist and keyboard player Kitty Arabella Austin is no shrinking violet femme  - more femme fatale. She'll take no shit, but she'll dish it out - and you really wouldn't want to be on her shit-list. Not for nothing do the band call their fans 'The Death Or Glory Gang', as well as using that as a song title. Much of the band's recent debut album 'Welcome To Silvertown' gets an airing, along with some newer stuff - this band don't believe in standing still. As well as being heavy the sound is also dirty - in fact downright filthy - you'll probably want to jump straight in the shower as soon as you get home.

If you get a chance to see Saint Agnes - take it. You will remember that night for a long time...