Emerging talent at the PRS Almost Famous showcase

The PRS for Music’s regular Almost Famous showcase gives some of the best up-and-coming artists a chance to show their wares at a central London venue. The gig at the 229 Club comprised four very different acts and some very interesting new talent.

Londoner Allman Brown has already attracted the attention of producers Paul Herman and James Bryan, who have worked with the likes of Nelly Furtado and Emile Sandé. His sound is gentle guitar ballads with a rhythmic kick, and thoughtful lyrics delivered with control and beautiful tone. Comparisons could definitely be drawn with Ben Howard, but his style is his own and it’s pleasing stuff.

Grass House followed up with a set of epic, dark tracks, heavy in bass and rhythm, with gravelly vocals. Strange and compelling, and at once menacing and romantic, their joyous track Wild in Love was one of the best songs of the night and they’re definitely an interesting group. However, a little more variety in the set would have piqued a bit more interest.

Hailing from Leamington Spa, Coves already have high profile fans such as Zane Lowe and Lauren Laverne, and recently supported Echo & The Bunnymen on tour. Given that they’ve only been together since last year this is pretty good going, and even more impressive when you experience their electric live show – they burst on to the stage with a pulsing energy and a superb range of tracks and seemed to draw the biggest crowd. It’s hard to compare them, but we reckon if you like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs or The Kills you’d really like Coves. Cast a Shadow, which was released as an EP earlier this year, was terrific – definitely a standout track. Their cover of Chris Isaaks’ I Don’t Wanna Fall in Love gave the famous song more brooding darkness, and Last Desire was another winner.

Finally, 30 minutes behind schedule, Jenn D appeared. Tipped as one to watch by Radio 1, she brought pop flavour to the showcase with some pumping club beats and a sound oddly reminiscent of early 90s Madonna. The high-energy dance tracks (complete with Lycra-clad backing dancers) felt dated and somewhat out of place in the venue, and didn’t really do it for us – had the show ended with Coves we would have been happier punters. Nonetheless, the up and coming talents are ones to watch out for and the variety of performances made for a delightful evening.

Verdict: •••

Emma Cooper

Photos: Luna Ingrassia

For further information on PRS for Music visit their official website.

Watch the music video for Coves’ Cast a Shadow here: