poppedmusic

The Peach Fuzz

Phase One, Liverpool, 18th October 2019

Words & Photos: Elena Katrina

This was not the first time I’d seen The Peach Fuzz this year, nor was it the first time I’d seen main support Saytr Play. It was a bit of a dangerous mix and I think, this time, for me the support just pipped the headliners to the post for the act of the night. Saytr Play didn’t seem to care that this was not their crowd – they played it like they were. Loud and at times uncharacteristically exuberant, smiles cracking along the faces of usually fiercely focused angry faces as they spit and chant their musical wares. The smiles were kept to a minimum though. There were messages to get across – “this one’s about the state of our country” as lead singer pulsates and throws himself around the stage. Eventually, he ends up crawling around the sound desk hut in the middle of the crowd. There’s not a moment you want to take your eyes off of this band and they sound as good as they are to watch!

The Peach Fuzz were in fine form, there’s no denying it but singer Nathanial seemed almost shy sometimes at this show. I’ve become accustomed to more explanations about the songs than we were privy to this time around and I could sense an unease, at times. With an otherwise strong performance, the band’s every move was cheered on by their passionate crowd.  With their Bowie-esque sounds and a Jagger-like performance, this is a band that manages to intertwine the sounds of the past while giving them a modern twist. There’s an all-encompassing “The Peach Fuzz” sound to all of their songs – driven mainly, I feel, by the keys. Live this really comes to life and this show was no different.

Watching from different vantage points within the room it was great to see how their fans sang and jostled. I was lucky enough to happen upon The Peach Fuzz’s debut headline show earlier this year at Sound, and can happily report that their fanbase has about tripled since then. Perhaps it is this change in audience numbers that made the difference in storytelling – no longer recognising the majority of faces in front of you to being presented with the inquisitive gaze of strangers must be something that requires getting a little used to. I have no doubt though that they will get used to this and that their shows will continue to draw new music fans to them. Note-perfect and with positive messages in abundance, there’s no reason why The Peach Fuzz won’t become one of your new favourite new bands any time soon – go and see them – they’ll rock your little socks off!