Tuesday 17th June 2008, 12 Bar, Denmark Street, London.
Having already played a small showcase gig the same day, identical twin sisters Leigh and Chandra Watson perform a great set at this intimate venue. Joined by Jason and Mike on guitar and keyboards (and with surnames unknown to me) the sound is dreamy and laid back yet slightly haunting. Their cover of The Cure’s Just Like Heaven sounds in itself rather heavenly whilst the likes of Only You leaves one with the feeling of melting all over the floor.
Before the gig it would have been hard to imagine what sort of visual impact having a pair of identical twins would have; the sisters take turns on the acoustic guitar and lead vocals thus shifting the spotlight without apparently changing the visual focus, although the sonic aspect is also quite unexpected. Having such similar voices gives the vocal harmonies a seamless quality as if they are inseparably entwined. The banter also benefits with the two’s quips bouncing off each other, including a discussion of the unintentionally simultaneous scheduling of their UK trip with the seemingly unpopular American President George W. Bush.
The gig is a great showcase for the songs off their new album Fire Songs, which will be available Monday 30th June. It looks like this:
and it sounds really good. Get it!
Click here for The Watson Twins’ website.
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I also caught a bit of the next act, Charlot Webster. The main lady herself is joined by three other musicians. The instruments used are drums, keyboards, double bass, guitars, ukeleles and a bizarre keyboard instrument, the actual name of which i forget but is called Les (because it has sparkly keys and, “If it were a man it would be called Les”) and is gaffa taped to a beer crate. Each song everyone seems to be playing a different instrument.
The songs themselves have quirky pop sensibilities ranging from dark and jaunty to upbeat and, well, jauntier. You can visit her myspace page here.
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12 Bar, Denmark Street, London
Located at the heart of London’s guitar and drum district, the 12 Bar might not easily be noticed from the outside but a plethora of excellent acts have passed through its humble entrance over the years. The venue itself is small but goes deep into the building, with a cafe at the entrance, a bar in the middle and the gig room at the back.
The gig room itself is rather small and has a balcony which has recently been retracted, giving better visibility for those on the ground floor. Paint peels from the walls and cables run in clear view but you can sense the history as soon as you step through the door. In the past I have seen acts which more people than will fit on the stage but the atmosphere is always great.
Until recently I had never had the pleasure of eating at the cafe but I then sampled one of their burgers. Very tasty. There is quite a range to choose from too, with burgers including the Folk Burger, Blues Burger and Reggae Burger.
All in all a fantastic little venue, well worth seeing bands at.
