‘Last Living Cannibal’ & ‘Corridor’ Shacklewell Arms – Gig Review
It was one of those days.
I found out that the Alt-Folk night was cancelled because it was to be held outside – and this is England in spring. I had cycled over to east London for it, partly in the rain, so I figured as I’d come this far I’d find out what else was on.
Boy howdy, I was lucky enough to stumble across the Shacklewell Arms, a place I have heard of at many open mics before and cycled past 3 times before realising that the paint on the sign had faded and the old looking pub was the venue.
And what a venue it is!
Reasonably priced drinks, lots of old VCRs and posters and character pouring off every wall. And what sounds like a band playing in the back, seeping through the door to me and my pint.
Walking in I was amazed to see that Last Living Cannibal was only one person on stage with a guitar in hand sounding like a full band, with drums, heavy shoegaze guitar, droning and melodic vocals. A very warm stage presence and a bunch of tunes to bop to. Last Living Cannibal are brilliant, I’m still amazed it’s just one dude writing and playing all the parts. Think Big Thief with more indie rock and complex rhythm, and you’re going down the very delightful correct path.
The crowd did what crowds do and rescinded like the sea to grab pints and decompress having been so moved by the Last Living Cannibal. The tide came back in swiftly, all full of a buzz and excitement, to watch Corridor, a French Canadian band from Montreal. There were some nonchalant looking dudes hanging next to an empty stage with expectant mics, tempting synths and drum pads, eager guitars, it’s gonna be good. The audience was ready, lights went down, the blokes clambered up.
Corridor – Shacklewell Arms
Straight out the gate you get a complete feeling for what this tour de force is bringing to the little British Isles. Now I bloody love french pop, the new indie stuff thats coming out of Paris, Flavien Berger and this is like Tame Impala took a dip in it and came out revitalised.
They are an incredibly tight band, so slick and are a delight to watch, they bring all the energy, and the audience matches it. They tie the audience up in stellar rhythm and cut us loose with euphoric melodies. Man it’s an experience, if you get the chance to, jump on it. You will never regret time spent listening or watching this band. Also huge props to the frontman / bassist, such boundless energy and an infectious joy coming from him.