A WARM welcome was in store for The Hair as they played their first gig on home turf since their successful support slot for Kaiser Chiefs on their recent tour.

The venue started to fill early, and a fair crowd was on hand to catch local support bands – the drum and bass of Dead Rebellion and the fabulous soundscapes, gorgeous harmonies and Americana-tinged guitars of the brilliant Runaway Sons.

By the time The Hair took to the stage, the crowd was expectant and seemed interested to see and hear what they had to offer.

They weren’t disappointed – they sounded better than ever, especially their tight rhythm section provided by bassist Lee Clark and new drummer Vijay Mistry.

The Hair made a strong start with Stocks followed by single Blood with its urgent guitars, foot stomping rhythm, and catchy chorus delivered by singer Sam Robson, whose voice is reminiscent of The Cure’s Robert Smith.

Left Foot Right Foot is a classic anthem, with its cowbell intro and stomping drums; Half Cut soundly reflects the sinking feeling we’ve all experienced after one too many drinks. Disco Retro is just a brilliant song, driven by Neil Clark’s keys, which encouraged some dancing down at the front. Hooker, meanwhile, which escalated to find all four members of the band playing drums at its close, was an appropriately explosive set closer.

The Hair are taking a well-earned break at the end of a successful year for the band, to write some new material – make sure you get to see them play it in the new year.