9

Motion theory

Playing to a sold out crowd at Manchester Academy is a real opportunity for White Rose Movement and spurred on by a very healthy reception from the crowd they get straight into their stride.

With a big stage to play on and the advantage of a good lighting rig you are immediately struck by the bands stage presence, singer Finn utilises the monitors well, standing aloft for much of the set he cuts a compelling figure although the vocals are a little quiet during the first few numbers. Whilst the 80's overtones are evident on their recorded output they really come to the fore in the live setting, almost too much in places but they do manage to create a rhythmic groove, which gets a healthy section of the crowd nodding their heads.

Forthcoming single 'Girls in the Back' is a definite highlight with it's catchy chorus and could well see the band achieve a decent chart position. Considering this is not their crowd they give an energetic and dynamic performance and certainly win some new fans. It's not until the last song 'Alsatian' though that White Rose Movement really show their full potential, here they deliver a cutting dark edge with driving guitars and keyboards combining well behind Finn's passionate vocals and some frantic flailing of arms!

White Rose Movement are not going to appeal to everyone but they have enough presence and energy about them to entertain and they go down extremely well in front of The Rakes audience. Although their debut album is set for release in March (and captures their current sound perfectly) it will be on the follow up that we should really see how far they can take their sound.