Haunts - Ruby Lounge, Manchester Live Review

Review of Haunts live at the Ruby Lounge in Manchester on August 6th 2009.

Over the past couple of years, Haunts have emerged from the gloomy back streets of London Town, with an original sound and some powerful songs that are instantly likeable. My first encounter with these dark gentlemen was while they were supporting Eagles of Death Metal a few months back. Since then they have been working on releasing the 'Love is Blind' E.P, which is a tantalising selection of tracks that offers a glimpse of Haunts future potential.

The band have been creeping around the country performing at a handful of small headline shows for an August tour to promote their new single and sell a few T-shirts. I went to see them play in Manchester's Ruby Lounge, where they were supported by local soft rockers 'The Vanguards' and hardcore 4-piece 'Sharks///', both were worth a listen to and provided some decent drinking music to get the crowd ready for the main show.

From the moment 'Haunts' appeared on stage, they had a strong presence and looked comfortably in command as they pounded through a perfectly executed set. The dark lighting, deep vocals, devilish lyrics and cleverly composed melodies were a pleasure to watch and listen to. There was nothing showy or pretentious, just a talented band of musicians / artists helping to create a good vibe conducive to jerky dancing.

Rory Taylor