By Russell Foxall. Photos: Anita Foxall.
Having seen the impressive Conscious Pilot before, it was an easy decision to head out on a cold early March Sunday (2/3/25), particularly as I had enjoyed the various songs by Bikini Body I had sampled on line.
The opening band was Winchester-based Cheap Faith. Despite only being together for a year, they delivered a solid set of Indie/rock tunes. They were enjoyable, and the lead singer’s voice was particularly impressive.
Next up were co-headliners Edinburgh 5-piece Bikini Body, pictured top, who exploded onto the stage with Daily Mail. Over the next 45 minutes, they delivered a propulsive set, mixing post-punk with funk. Their enthusiasm was infectious, their musicianship dazzling, their lyrics full of biting social commentary. They exceeded all my expectations.
Conscious Pilot closed out the night. They were impressive last year, and even better tonight. They deliver a more pared-down post-punk sound than Bikini Body that is equally compelling. It seamlessly combines two guitars with melodic yet driving bass and drums. Clever lyrics delivered in lead singer Joe Laycock’s instantly recognisable Baritone complete their impressive sound.
Speaking to Vicky Kavanagh, lead singer of Bikini Body, after their blistering set, I discover that both bands are friends. Unsurprising, really, given the way their high-energy performances perfectly complement each other, as highlighted by the newly released single featuring Conscious Pilot’s Kitchen Knife and Bikini Body’s The News.
Finally, shout out to Psych for organising yet another excellent night of music, and keeping the Southampton music scene vibrant and relevant.
- In Common is not for profit. We rely on donations from readers to keep the site running. Could you help to support us for as little as 25p a week? Please help us to carry on offering independent grass roots media. Visit: https://www.patreon.com/incommonsoton