27 February 2016 (gig)
06 March 2016
The Roundhouse is the cream of the larger music venues in London. The circular shape of the Grade II listed former Railway engine shed ensures everyone benefits from a full view of the stage and this evening I find myself in the second floor seating area. After winding myself down the brick corridors, I’m escorted in military style, to my numbered seat overlooking the lively, capacity crowd that has eagerly gathered in Chalk Farm for an evening of Rifles classics old and new
We’re alerted to the band’s imminent arrival as the dj breaks the rock ‘n’ roll mould to blare out Grandmaster Flash’s ‘White Lines’. With anticipation and enthusiasm rippling through the crowd, the boys take the stage and launch straight into ‘She’s Got Standards’ and then keep up the momentum with ‘Heeby Jeebies’
‘How are you all feeling tonight?’ beams Joel in a short but sweet moment.
A little later Luke announces that the new album ‘should be out in a couple of months’ which is greeted with a huge roar of approval. We’re treated to 3 new tunes. Punchy and up tempo numbers, a very promising sign for their eagerly awaited fifth LP.
The raucous crowd get themselves a well earned rest as the band take a break to allow Joel and Luke to play a few acoustic tracks and show off their considerable song writing talent. It provides a more intimate experience and a chance to hear the poignant lyrics that has enabled the band to build up such a strong, loyal following
They kick off with ‘Spend a Lifetime’ and follow it up with ‘Rock the Boat’ before the rest of the band join back on stage and up the pace. ‘Peace and Quiet’ is the highlight of what is overall a fantastic evening and the chorus of ‘Romeo and Julie’ echoes and penetrates through the Roundhouse walls as the fans make their way home
The Rifles have the bit between their teeth again and are gigging more regularly. With their new album due out in the next few months, Rifles fans can look forward to seeing them again shortly. You can find their full gig list here - http://www.therifles.me.uk/newsite/
