LIVE: Island City EP Launch (inc. Nathan Abbott, Carousel & Tallowah) - Arlington Ballroom, Leigh On Sea 29.04.16

Acoustic, folk, reggae, and R&B inspired rock; a collection of musical genres that could sit uncomfortably next to each other on the same bill – unless you’re Nathan Abbott, Carousel, Tallowah, and Island City, playing to a dapper looking crowd at The Arlington Ballroom, in Leigh on Sea on a Friday night.

Headliners Island City were launching their self-titled EP, and invited a variety of musicians from the local music scene to share in the celebrations. Hosted by local comedian Ross McGrane, the night began with the tender but tenacious vocals of Nathan Abbott, followed by the dazzling harmonies of five-piece, Carousel. McGrane kept the crowd entertained between performances, and personally recommended penultimate act, Tallowah. The four-piece soothed the crowd with their mesmeric reggae songs, including a faultless cover of Bob Marley’s ‘Get Up, Stand Up’. If you’re big on reggae (or The Police circa ‘Walking On The Moon’), then Tallowah should be at the top of your ‘to see’ list.

McGrane took friendly, comedic shots at the crowd before directing his attention towards Island City’s lead singer, Johnny Thorpe, as the band prepared to play their set of R&B infused tunes. Tallowah’s frontman, Joe Garner, seamlessly made the transition from reggae guitarist to blues guitarist for Island City, and from start to finish the band played a smooth, soulful set which kept spectators shaking their hips and singing along. Vocalist Johnny Thorpe is the owner of a fine, unfaltering set of vocal chords, which he attributed to the band’s musical influences, including the much-missed Amy Winehouse.

Estuary accents were proud and prevalent throughout the night, especially when Johnny spoke about the inspiration behind his song-writing, which included heartbreak, and dismissals of the current Tory government. The band closed with ‘Showtime’, which was clearly cherished by the local crowd. “Now I haven’t got to sing, let’s have a fucking chat!” were Johnny’s closing words, and Island City were gratitude incarnate at the end of their set, graciously thanking their fans and manager for their continuing support. Fans were equally as grateful when they discovered their ticket entitled them to free entry at Island City’s next gig, and a copy of their new EP, too.

Island City’s self-titled, debut EP is available to stream on soundcloud now.

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut