After attending a Holy Moly and the Crackers gig I think it is safe to say that they are a group not to be underestimated.
The gypsy rock band from Newcastle bring together a sonic mix of traditional folk and wild rock that demonstrates a pure love and talent for music. Admittedly, upon arriving at Bodega it was evident that Holy Moly and the Cracker’s fan base is made up of quite an older crowd, not so much an audience of students. However, this gig if nothing reminded me that (contrary to student belief) older people still know how to have fun and new music really can transcend the ages.
The band opened with their song ‘Sugar’ off of their album Salem which was upbeat and fast-paced and everyone in the room held no restraint in dancing along. Conrad Bird, in particular, is definitely one to watch as lead vocalist his stage presence is infectious and full of swagger, his energetically daring dance steps and animalistic screams engaged incredibly with the crowd and I found myself in the midst of a chain dance.
The band itself are equivalent to the sounds and traits of an entire orchestra which has been collapsed into just six talented members, with Rosie Bristow playing the Accordion and Ruth Patterson on the fiddle they brought a richly unique sound that filled the entire room. The highlight of the night for me was watching Conrad switch between his guitar and trumpet whilst simultaneously still holding up the lead vocals.
Their new single ‘Gravel Rag’ was delivered with the same daring style they’d kept up all night and the crowd responded with cheers and shrieks confirming the success of the new song. It was the perfect way to end the gig, going out with a bang the band and everyone in the audience were satisfied with the way the night had run and were left hungry for more. If you’re ever after a bit of fun and can embrace the older crowd I’d definitely recommend attending one of their shows, you won’t be disappointed.
By Stella Harwood