Tearjerk and Underwater George v Cartel and Allergo

Punk v Metal 29th August, Westpor Bar, Dundee. Tearjerk and Underwater George v Cartel and Allergo

Well, this is the first gig that i put on, and it was a good one. The crowd was the usual dundee size, but the music was top quality. There were a few new faces in the crowd which is always a good thing.

The night started off with Allergo opening up, they very nearly didnt play due to an error on my part, which i almost had a heart attack over, but thank goodness they played. I dont think the night would have been the same without these guys from Perth. For their age, these guys are definately impressive and are on top when it comes to what they do. They released their new demo cd on the night and played some tracks from it. Needless to say, they sold a fair few when their set was over. Really heavy sounding, voices of mature metal singers and attitude that most bands only wish they had. Allergo were in my opinion the best performers on the night. There first time in Dundee and hopefully the first of many.

Next up were Arbroath punk outfit Underwater George. Perhaps not their best night, but the music was still good. They tried their best to keep the punk flag waving through their set, but the wrath of Allergo had em pinned down. Allergo won this bout.

Fresh from their one track appearence at ReVolt, the band people were eager to see, Cartel. As soon as they started, they just got better through the set, they sounded tighter than before and had me standing by the door nodding my head like i had been a metal head for the past 10 years. Sounding heavy and aggressive, the band delivered what everyone was hoping from them. With a cover thrown in, Cartel were making it look like metal was going to steal the show tonight, it definately was looking like punk was gonna be in for a fight on this one. Could Tear Jerk pull one back?

Very nearly. They pulled out all the stops on this one. Their attempt at a metal song was the funniest thing i have seen in all my gigging years. Each member playing an instrument they were unfamiliar with and Grossi took the mic from Baz. I couldnt stop laughing at the 'Scandinavian' metal band they pretended to be. They delivered their secret weapon and while almost demolishing the stage with Barry's acrobatic antics.

Its really difficult for me to point out any faults of the night, especially in relation to the music that we were all treated too. The only gripe is the usual one about attendance. But we/i learnt alot on the night and shall definately put on an equally good show next time. Thanks to all those that took part, thanks to Allergo, who incedently got a cheer at the end of the night, for coming down from Perth to play, it wont be forgotton, and thanks to all those who came and showed their support, not only for the bands, but for the undergroundscene in general.

KJ.