PINS showcased exactly what they’re made of at Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen.
PINS
Manchester band PINS have had an exciting year. The band, already having two albums (self-released on their own label, Haus of PINS) under their belt, have recently dropped two EPs ahead of their next full-length album: one containing singles “LUVU4LYF” and “Serve the Rich,” and Bad Things. The latter, a five-song EP, hosts “Aggrophobe,” the single featuring a spoken-word piece voiced by none other than Iggy Pop. The newest releases mark an impressive change and growth in the artists since their first albums, moving from noisy surf-rock to a more brooding atmosphere, with more electronic elements lending to a psychedelic feel. They took to the road to celebrate the release with a slew of impressive support acts.
Alternative grunge Leeds-local powerhouses Cowtown, part of the scene for about 13 years now, opened the night with their own unique blend of captivating and off-kilter tunes. With quick and gritty songs featuring fast-paced synth and grinding guitar, the three-piece are never not enjoyable. They close on the heady rush that is “Castle Greyscale” from their most recent album, infectious and full of punky bass. Cowtown is the best kind of short and sweet.
PINS takes full advantage of their darker mood, but never forget how to have a good time. Bass-stompingly good beats, old and new, are enjoyed far and wide in the audience. “Serve the Rich” is glorious both recorded and live, with punchy synth and snarling guitars. “Girls Like US,” a feminist anthem for all the women put down by men and misogyny in life, has the band inviting every girl in the audience to the front. During the encore, “Young Girls” has the girls in the band hoisting crowd members onstage to dance together to one of PINS’ very first singles, with syrupy lyrics and sparkling synth. The entire room is singing along by the end, energies high off the feel of community the band always seems to bring to a show.