It’s not the name of a 1972’s song by T-Rex. This time Baby Stange is the name of a Glaswegian band formed by guitarist Johnny Madden, bassist Aidan McCann and drummer Connaire McCann. It’s half past midnight of a Friday night and Koko once again confirms itself as the London music machine. The big sparkling ball on the ceiling is moving and originates that sort of atmosphere that can easily make you think of the glittering Eighties. Good vibes are everywhere inside the venue but the real fire starts when the images on the screen stop and, instead, a trio of young musicians appears on stage.

Baby Strange’s music is a good mix between a certain Manchester/Glasgow style rock and The Clash, with something that recalls Black Rebel Motorcycle as well. You might wonder which direction their music will take, but this blend of punky/alt rock sounds is the only winner. At least, at the moment. Because it’s rough enough to create addiction among rock‘n’roll lovers, but melodic enough to engage with a broader audience. The thing is, when they come on stage and start playing the few songs they’ve released so far (the gig lasts more or less half an hour), people start moving, jumping and pushing under the stage. Maybe the singing is not perfect, but the fast, punk vibes coming from their guitar and bass is what fans and occasional listeners need to hear.

There’s something remenicent of Joe Strummer in the intro of ‘Friend’ and the punky attitude you can find in ‘Pure Evil’ perfectly meets with some distant grunge echoes in ‘Want It/Need It’. Which is why fans literally lose control during the gig and, hands up, totally enjoy the freshness that Baby Strange are able to convey on stage. The gig goes on as fast as the music rhythm and very quickly reaches its key moment: ‘Trouble’ is on and the whole building’s trembling.

It’s not time to go back home yet, but Baby Strange finish playing and wave thanks to the public. Now you can feel satisfied with your daily dose of good old-style rock’n’roll in your ears. Only, tonight it’s dressed with the freshness typical of young people that hug you with the illusion (or hope) that old punk may be dead, but someone still likes it young.

Marcella Sartore