LIVE REVIEW: Them Crows @ The Foresters, Huddersfield
On arrival, a pint of John Smith's from the bar staff made for a warm welcome on a cold December night.
The venue has a purpose made stage taking over a previously seated area of the pub. Although at around 6:30pm the venue was quiet, it started to fill up nicely as the band blasted out their first few songs.
Tom Q Cusic (lead guitar & vocals), @Andy Hawkins (bass guitar & vocals) and Russell Bunford (drums) put together a set that mixes classic rock and blues with their own twist. This band clearly has passion for the music they are playing.
A banging set started with the Dr Feelgood rocker "She Does It Right", followed by covers of blues and rock songs. Particular standouts were Muddy Waters "Hoochie Coochie Man", The Stones "Honky Tonk Woman", Cheap Tricks "I Want You To Want Me" and my personal favourite of the night Marvin Gaye’s "Heard It Though The Grapevine".
Them Crows don't just cover the songs, they put their own spin on them to make them fresh and contemporary. Deep bass lines, strong and harmonic vocals, intricate lead guitar solos all delivered in front of a thumping beat. What is there not to like?
All in all, if you like your music live and loud then Them Crows are right up your street. Accomplished, unpretentious musicians enjoying themselves.