‘It’s been ages since we’ve been in Birmingham – we went into town earlier and it’s ace. The city is dripping it culture and wow, what a place to live.’
Birmingham often gets such a bad rep, that when Marmozets vocalist Becca Bottomley gives such a positive review, it’s almost difficult to take it seriously.
But from the sound of the sold out o2 Academy crowd, Birmingham are just as pleased to have Marmozets back in their town. With no need for a simple stage set and simple outfits, Marmozets rely solely on the trademark fiery energy that brought them to our attention over a decade ago.
The crowd are more than happy to respond in kind – a full mosh pit has broken out by the chorus of second song, Play, and some of their biggest singles such as Habits and Weird And Wonderful have every word enthusiastically sung back.
Running With The Stars In Your Eyes gets things moving after a cryptic message about treating people with kindness. ‘Are you ready to get hit again?’ we’re asked as the band launch into Move Shake and Hide.
Interspersed into the hits are some new tracks, A Kiss From A Mother and upcoming single New York. The small venue is practically steaming as we draw to the end of the set – we’ve hardly been able to stop moving! The energy of the crowd pushes you in every direction, but this isn’t music you want to stay still to…
‘We’ll be back. This is your last chance to show us what you’ve got.’ As though this audience need convincing. The opening notes of Major System Error remind me of what drew me to Marmozets all those years ago – the exhilarating tempo, the unbridled vocal range and the purely chaotic essence combine to form something pretty damn special.
I’m glad to see that still remains today.
Brum Shots 
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