I went to see Funeral For A Friend last week in their home town of Pontypridd. It was the second time I had seen them and was one of those unplanned things! After seeing them the first time, I didn't think I would enjoy myself as they had a lot to live up to in my eyes, but I have to admit, it was the most amazing gig I have ever been to. They have improved so much in three years, and seeing them perform to their old friends and life-long fans in such an intimate environment was little more than breath-taking.
They performed every classic, and I couldn't help but sing along to each and every word. They crowd was bouncing and every line of every song made much more sense than ever before. Their tribute to the lost was tearful and "Roses For The Dead" probably erupted goosebumps in us all.
Supporting them was an Essex band called We Are The Ocean, who warmed the audience up perfectly ; Especially when the singer disappeared into a mosh pit. Loud, Fast and Hard! What a warm up!
But I have to give the biggest credit to the first act People In Planes !! They are a band from Porthcawl in Wales, who, until that night, I have never heard of, but in all fairness, took my breath away. Ghostly vocals, unique guitarist, original sound; It takes strong musicians to hold talent like that, and I have to say, they just EXCELLED in each and every was possible ! Heavy and melodic, every jaw in that audience dropped and they are going places. If you are going to see them, you are in for a treat!!
Definitely the highlight of 2009 so far!
