LIVE: The Tapestry / Pusher / Cellars @ New Cross Inn, London 18.07.15

Cellars – whose name is a reference to Richard Kelly’s 2001 indie masterpiece Donnie Darko – opened the evening with a set which could’ve comfortably made it on to the soundtrack of said film. The five-piece band from North London blended atmospheric keyboard, ambient guitar riffs, and some knock-out drumming in to a series of melodic, alternative tunes. It was clear that Daniel, Gabriel, Dan, Tom, and Simon were enjoying their time in the spotlight, and it’ll be interesting to see what they’re going to produce on their forthcoming EP.

Up next were co-headliners Pusher. In a recent interview with Gigslutz, the five-piece band spoke about wanting to show their “lighter side” to their fans. Whilst on stage, however, Pusher’s deeply focused, intoxicating blend of heavy bass, bluesy guitar, and ominously attractive vocals make being “miserable fuckers” look really fucking cool. Neck hairs were raised throughout – ‘Here She Comes’ being the stand out track – and so were cheers, glasses, and applause at the end of their set.

(This review wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging bassist Tom Hemmingway’s decision to wear a full-length, navy, parka-style coat whilst on stage in sweltering summer temperatures. That’s a strong look.)

Topping the bill were Manchester band, The Tapestry. In a recent interview with Gigslutz, frontman Liam explained the difficulties the band have faced whilst trying to get on to the line-ups of music festivals this summer; after this performance, it’s hard to understand why any promoter would turn down a band as talented and enthusiastic as The Tapestry. Their rendition of their latest single, ‘Infatuation’, was an absolute cracker – played with impeccable timing and infectious energy. It even encouraged a few stray solo dancers to jump to their feet and writhe along to the chorus.

The four-piece were clearly happy to share the headlining spot once more with Pusher. Both bands have appeared on the same bill before and have subsequently built a good rapport with one another – they comfortably mocked each other’s “sweaty backs” in between songs.