The intriguingly named band Man/Woman/Chainsaw are doing the rounds in smaller venues to promote their debut album, Cannonball. They have been releasing music since 2022.
This was a new to us band but we have been to the fab wee venue Wax and Beans before in Bury, a cafe/bar which is also a record store and has regular events on, including DJs and this type of promotional event.
This was a packed out event, with an excited crowd, many of whom had purchased the album on the night.
The band consist of Emmie Mae Avery ( vocals/keyboard/synthesiser ) Clio Starwood ( violin ) Lola Cherry ( drums ) Billy Doyle ( guitar ) Vera Leppänen ( vocals/bass ) Billy Ward ( vocals/guitar ). We were impressed to see that Emmie Mae Billy and Vera all had time as vocals and each of them were indeed worthy of it, all three excellent.
We got a stadium quality performance in a small room, this band have so much joy in playing it’s infectious. We loved every song, Nosedive showcased the violin beautifully, Canyon had yearning stunning vocals. All 6 musicians were superb and the sound quality was crystal clear, no mean feat in a small venue but it was perfect. I thought I heard hints of other bands in there, certainly Chvrches and even Waterboys at one point, but they have their own style and sound for sure. One minute massive rock vibe, then delicate melody and vocals. Stunning. Crowd absolutely loved it.
Want to give a massive thanks to the organisers of the event and staff of Wax and Beans for a fantastic event, well organised and fun on one of the hottest days of the year. We had a brilliant time.
Definitely going to see this band again soon. Listening to the album as I write this. Get Up and Dance is astonishingly good, as is Flick of the Wrist and Still Angry. They are at Gorilla on Sept 22nd, Leeds 23rd then further afield Sheffield Nottingham and Birmingham.
Get along, this is a very special band.
Christine Ince for Canal St Media