It’s a sell out night at the impressive Corn Exchange and support duties go to an act we have to admit we know very little about. With a name like So Good the expectations are high. We’re not disappointed. Using a ‘Baby Metal’ formation of three musicians (guitar, bass and drums) and three vocalists (a lead and two prominent backing) they already gain interest before they really get going. The visuals are pretty striking too with the music being played by people wearing pink ski masks al la Pussy Riot. The band as a whole have a fun sound, send a strong positive feminist message, and really don’t like the guy in the White House. They live up to their name and then some.
Not many acts have such an aura of respect towards them as Skunk Anansie do. While their songs deliver in the proverbial spades it’s their strength of character and easy way they manage to ooze class on stage that has seen them become living legends. The drums thump and pound in perfect time with the bass which is played with deftness. The guitar work is uber consistent too knitting each song together. And then there is Skin. This amazing woman has to be regarded as one of UK rock music’s greats. Her range, tone and emotion are breath taking. She whirls around covering every inch of those Cambridge boards for an hour and three quarters with no let up, the crowd in the palm of her hands throughout. Making the point that we are all equal is done with eloquence and passion. This is a show where inclusion of all isn’t just said, it is done, it is fundamental. And that sums up why this wonderful band are so deeply revered, they don’t capture hearts and minds, they set them free.
Review and photos by Gary Trueman