Review | Furious Cool at

The Groundlings Theatre:

'The gig passes all too
quickly'
Playing your debut gig on one of the hottest
days of the year in a room where the air is
deathly still is not ideal.

But this is where new Portsmouth band Furious Cool find themselves.
It is however great to see The Groundlings being used for more gigs –
and to see it packed.

Still, the five-piece, led by vocalist Hayley Alker are consummate

professionals and aren’t afraid to work up a sweat.

Alker is also frontwoman of electro-rock band Curl, and having only

ever seen her perform before with them, this is a very different kettle
of fish. Where her voice often has to fight with raucous guitars and
electronic madness in that group, here they are front and centre, and
the sound is much more laid back, allowing this impressive vocalist to
shine.
Portsmouth band Furious Cool appearing at The Groundlings Theatre on
Friday, August 12. Picture by Paul Windsor

This is a soulful, jazzy, sometimes a bit funky, sometimes a bit blusey

beast, and the fact that the four musicians behind Alker have known
each other for decades, and played together in various outfits, shows.
They can be tight when needed, but aren’t afraid to let the songs flow.
Gary Shaw’s lead work on guitar is impressive throughout – it’s
obvious why he’s an in-demand session player, while Cliff Chapman
provides some groovy licks on the keys – at times reminiscent of the
great Jimmy Smith.

And the rhythm section of Bernie Fox on drums and bassist Robin
Vick keep the whole thing rolling nicely. Vick’s bass intro to their new
song Where Do We Go is a particularly funky, chunky riff.
Furious Cool at The Groundings Theatre on August 12. Picture by Paul
Windsor

Over the course of two 45 minute sets we’re introduced to several

new songs, including their super-smooth debut single Sit Down. Alker
does plenty of talking, giving welcome context to the songs, old and
new, and there’s even some audience participation.

The gig passes all too quickly, testament to the quality of the songs
and showmanship on display.

So, furious? Definitely not. Cool? Oh yes, very.

Their next gig is early Saturday afternoon at Victorious Festival – I
promise they will be a great way to ease you into the day’s festivities.

Portsmouth