music review

The Stranglers

The Edge Festival

"Making up for lost time" is how bassist Jean-Jacques Burnel describes The Stranglers' first show in Edinburgh for eighteen years, as he thrusts himself into ‘Peaches', the most gloriously sleazy piece of music to have spawned from the punk movement. More than three decades into their career and The Stranglers still manage to sound more innovative than most modern bands: the groove of the thick, intoxicating bass is what defines their sound, but the precision of Baz Warne's guitar playing gives credence to the intricacies of their music. The synthesiser tones may have dated somewhat, and Burnel's growling vocals lack the conviction they may once have had, but this is still a band whose contribution to contemporary music is enduringly relevant.

Edge Festival @ HMV Picture House, 7 Aug, 7.30pm, £23.00, fpp 162

tw rating: 4/5

published: Aug-2009

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