Review Music: The Kooks | Roundhouse | gentle harmonies

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The Review - MUSIC - grooves with ROISIN GADELRAB
Published: 4 December 2008

Disaffected with the cocky side of Kooks

REVIEW: THE KOOKS
Roundhouse

THEY started out like any other band – playing small venues – and they suited it. Their innocent sound and gentle harmonies didn’t need special effects but on Monday they tried anyway.
The Kooks are good at what they do – indie-lite with little banter.
But with their success they have strayed into Dodgy territory – Shine On verges on bland, and is only a sunbeam away from being the next Stayin’ Out for the Summer.
Luke Pritchard’s vulnerable vocals, sat a little uncomfortably with his slightly cocky
gestures, but he just about got away with it.
The greatest moments of the night were also the strangest – as they hardened up the guitars for the powerful Time Awaits, all went a little Pink Floyd. The backdrop turned purple, green lasers shot out, skimming overhead, and long, drawn out guitar notes created a brief, surreal stadium rock moment.
But, much as the Roundhouse has great potential for fun effects – hence balloons falling from the ceiling, and a heart attack-inducing explosion of glitter about three songs in – these boys don’t need it.
They were strongest when the backdrop was white, their shadows loomed and they played to their strengths and yes Naïve still sounds fresh.

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