The Games Room at Brudenell Social Club was heaving to witness a line-up full of promising young acts, and also to celebrate the release of Peakes latest single. The event comprised of some of the vast array of talent coming out of Leeds College of Music, Peakes hosted Luna Pines, Loux and Laminate Pet Animal.
The evening began with a set from Luna Pines. This four-piece combined light, delicate, tones with pulsating choruses. Their musical dexterity and intricacy proved to be captivating. Singer Olivia Ferrara’s lofty and ethereal vocals elevated an already interesting performance.
Luna Pines were then followed by Loux. Their style was placed perfectly in the middle ground between the dreamy tones of Luna Pines and the electronic power of Laminate Pet Animal who were about to follow them. The trio are still in the early stage of their career, but have already picked up some impressive support slots and festival sets. Their timid nature, and genuine gratitude towards the crowd for coming out to see them, was heart-warming and endearing. Their funky guitar rhythms and dream-pop vocals created are real energy and warmth in the room.
It was then time for a swift gear change with the introduction of Laminate Pet Animal. Yet another band gathering lots of the right kind of attention, especially after their single “Eve” was picked up for release by the renowned local record label Come Play With Me. Their set comprised of plenty of intelligent, varied, and intricate song structuring. They fuse moments of soft beauty with throbbing, hard-hitting, electronic beats. Laminate Pet Animal showed that they are adept at creating light, tender, and blissful tracks as well as upbeat and groove driven electronica ones, but their piece de resistance is when they effortlessly combine the two elements. The crowd showed a huge amount of appreciation towards them before it was time for the headline act.
Peakes then entered the stage to celebrate the release of their new single “Saint”. Judging by how densely populated the room was Peakes are set to have a strong career, especially if they have gained such support in a relatively short space of time. Their brand of indie-pop is in a similar style to that of Women’s Hour, but Peakes have also definitely brought a unique style and some individuality to the genre. Their driving synth and forceful drums create atmospheric tension in the room, which is perfectly complimented by the vocals. Vocalist Molly Puckering is the real star of the show, her quiet and humble demeanor between songs is offset by her dynamic and commanding performances during each number. Molly possesses a vast vocal range which she uses to its fullest. Her delivery was mesmeric and spellbinding as she expertly portrays the emotions from within her lyrics. Peakes seem destined for a bright career and they have all the attributes you would need to achieve this.