LIVE: Broken Hands @ Rough Trade East, 05.10.15

The autumn rain was lashing down on the dark streets of London last night, but amongst the rows of records in Rough Trade East, the dreary weather went unnoticed. Groups of fans had gathered at the store to be soaked in sound by Canterbury five-piece, Broken Hands.

The band’s live shows have gained a reputation for being adorned with strobe lights, masses of tin foil and silver parachutes; all of which are meant to reflect the concepts of time, space, and elevating experiences on their debut album Turbulence (see our review here). This time, however, the band kept things stripped back and simple, relying solely on the quality of their psychedelic infused, alternative rock anthems.

Despite suffering from ill health a few days prior to the gig, frontman Dale Norton’s vocals filled the store with a strong, clear sound on opening song, ‘Spectrum’. Band members Jamie Darby, Thomas Ford, Callum Norton, and David Hardstone were equally as focused and impressive in their performances and, together, the group performed knockout versions of ‘Should I’ and new single ‘Who Sent You’.

Like a well-oiled machine, Broken Hands played with enough energy and enthusiasm to fuel a rocket. Their live renditions of ‘747’ and ‘Meteor’ were particularly aggressive, and left the sound of Turbulence ringing in the crowd’s ears. After the show, fans approached the band to share kind words, and ask for CD signings.

Broken Hands’ debut album is released on 9 October – be sure to get your own hands on a copy.

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut

Kate Crudgington

Kate Crudgington

Assistant Editor for Gigslutz (2015-2017) Now Co-Founder, Co-Host & Features Editor for @getinherears