The Dykeenies @ The Garage

The Dykeenies take a 20 year-old sound and update it. A keyboard playing singer, 80s' influences and sing-a-long songs crammed with pop hooks make comparisons with The Killers easy, but accurate. They have a harder edge - at times they sound like a Test Icicles that can actually play their instruments. Backing vocals from the bassist and guitarist help fill the room and 'Pick You Up' and 'Clean Up Your Eyes' sound positively anthemic. Other highlights include the partisan crowd singing 'In and Out' almost as loud as the band, the rocking 'Death On The Dancefloor' and the band channelling the spirit of Ron 'Anchorman' Burgundy with an a capella "Afternoon Delight.' If there is any justice in the world, the numerous 'killer' songs and joie de vivre on show tonight will catapult The Dykeenies to the same super stardom as the Las Vegas Quartet. [Paul Matusavage]