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Hot hot heat play a packed and steamy Borderline on this cold January night in
London. Tonight appears to be more of a showcase in support of their forthcoming
album ?elevators? as well over half the venue is filled with industry. Complete
with new guitarist Luke Paquin, HHH play a set scattered with songs from ?make
up the breakdown? and the new album ?elevators?.
To split the show in two, the old stuff was sounding a little worn. Songs like
?bandages? and ?naked in the city? sounded a little tired and to be brutal, the
vocals were lazy throughout with singer Steve Bay even opting for very different
keys that just didn?t sound right and although the sound wasn?t doing them any
favours tonight, it was still a bit withdrawn but it?s worth remembering that
it?s been a year since this band were playing shows. Still, ?talk to me dance
with me? and ?oh goddamnit? sounded like the brilliant post mod(ern) hits that
they are and as the set went on, they got into their unrelenting three-minute
anthems more and more.
New songs from the forthcoming record were strong and played with great
enthusiasm. They expose a little more pop in HHH and are almost crossing over
with the likes of the Strokes. It?s all a bit less frantic than the last album
and more straight forward. Smash Music didn?t catch any song names but there are
very staccato guitars everywhere full of choppy riffs with more dynamic, melodic
keyboards taking lead but still with that totally danceable feel that makes this
band.
Tonight was a reminder of the jagged riffs and ska-flavoured skips of ?make up
the breakdown? and a sneak preview at ?elevators?. From what we heard tonight,
this album is going to be worth the wait. Talking to the band before the show
revealed that this really is just all about enjoying it and they can?t wait to
get back to the UK later in the year for some larger shows. It?s more fun than
fashion for HHH as Paul, the bands drummer points towards the stage and says,
?That? That?s just for fun. That?s what we are doing man, just having fun!?
which made tonight?s show all the more enjoyable to watch. Bring on ?Elevators?.
We?re ready and waiting?
8.5/10
reviewed
by
Philip Storey
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