Gig Review - Eyes Wide

Vicki, Jamie and Rob of Eyes Wide

Three musicians decided to form a band. Rochdale based, they have been together for only 7 months and they have already broken through the ‘newbie’ window and marked their territory on the Manchester indie scene, and their latest gig was at the Night and Day Café, Manchester on Saturday 3 September.

Performing a new set for the first time, Eyes Wide introduced themselves with ‘Kimberley’, an Interpol influenced number that spellbound the audience and defined their space for the rest of the gig.

The 80’s Rock n Roll references were clear immediately, with frequent similarities to Nirvana, Joy Division, Sonic Youth and The Libertines, all of which mixed well to form a band that still has the gift of originality.

Some hard hitting and melodic rock followed with ‘Something Deeper’ and ‘Invite from a Friend’, as the musical trio worked exceptionally well together; these songs triggered the best reaction from the crowd.

Bass player Vicki, despite her coy and inert nature, stood out on stage as noticeably as front man Rob, to the point where I kept expecting her to start singing along. However, her stage character is more withdrawn than Rob who was energetic and physically enthusiastic, although stood together they complemented each other well. And whilst drummer Jamie sounded spot on throughout the set, the attention remained at the front on Rob and Vicki.

Poignant lyrics are a feature of many Eyes Wide songs, mainly about life, relationships and choices, but put together in such way that doesn't allow them to be thrown into the emotional or susceptible category.

Vocalist and guitarist Rob Jones from Littleborough said: “The gig was brilliant, probably our best so far. Everyone seemed to be up for it and complete strangers were coming up to us afterwards saying they were blown away. We had a superb time on stage and I think when the audience see that you are having a good time, they are more inclined to get into it.”

For more details about Eyes Wide, visit their web site:

www.eyes-wide.com