It had been a little while since I’d been to a gig at a pub, but there I was heading over to The Rose of England in Nottingham. This time to see Family of Addiction ply their trade. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because we previously reviewed their track Not My Blood, although the band has gone through considerable positive changes since that recording.
The venue itself had just changed hands and, while you could certainly tell, the new management were doing their best with the less-than-ideal situation they had inherited. The headliners for the night actually had to pull out at the last minute due to their drummer not showing up; I imagine some heated conversations took place the following day. While I enjoyed all the bands on the bill, this review focuses solely on Family of Addiction’s set.
Before getting into the performance, it has to be said that the room simply isn’t fit for purpose. Everything echoed. My suspicions were confirmed as soon as I heard the opening band’s bass, which drowned out everything but the drums. The very high ceiling did nothing to help this. But less about that an more about the important stuff!
Family of Addiction
After catching up with Dave and Daz (two absolutely stellar guys), I was introduced to their new bass player, Oz, who informed me he was actually a guitarist by trade. This had me a little concerned—until I saw him play, at which point all worries vanished. He remained cheerful even after one of the previous bands managed to break his amp. I don’t think I’d have kept smiling after that; those things cost an absolute fortune.
Setlist
- Grub
- Rabbit Hole
- It’s OK
- Instead of Me
- Admin Girl
- Not My Blood
- Under the Table
The band played seven songs in total, all deeply personal to singer and guitarist Daz, which adds real depth to the trio. It’s one thing to write these songs, but another to deliver them effectively, which he does with conviction — even with his luscious black locks covering his face as he sings.
The band took extra time to get their sound as good as possible within the limitations of the room. The result was a well-balanced mix for everything except the vocals, and honestly, I don’t think there was anything more they could have done.
From the very first song, it was clear how much the trio enjoy playing together. That connection formed over years of knowing each other was unmistakable. With the bands grungy tones amongst melodic sections being something that can only happen in the right atmosphere.
The first three tracks served as ideal openers, offering enough intrigue to pull the audience in. A tantalizing starter before the main course. But it was the second half of the set that truly blew me away.
Dave on drums seemed to transform into a skin-striking demon with attitude, precision, and sheer enthusiasm. Oz’s addition made a clear difference too; even the two songs I’d previously heard sounded miles ahead of earlier versions, with more depth and a much more rounded feel. I can’t wait to hear the recording of Admin Girl as I know it is going to be fantastic. I am reliable told that these recordings will be happening too!
Once the recordings are released, I genuinely think the only limits this band will face are the ones they set themselves. They are all more than proficient musicians, and when you add their likeable personalities and natural charisma, the family’s addiction might well end up being to success.
A special shout-out to Lorcan, who I met at the gig! He kindly allowed me to use his photos from the night. Please go and follow him on Instagram—his handle is lorcanwallphotography.
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