the secret machines

After seeing The Secret Machines in Amsterdam, I'd downloaded their Now Here Is Nowhere album from the iTunes store. I absolutely loved it, and really wanted to see them play live again.

I was considering heading up to London to see them at the Shepard's Bush Empire, when I suddenly realised they were playing a venue somewhat closer to home. (It's much closer... think five minute walk). I've been to the venue several times before, but in the past it's usually just been to see so-so bands for the sake of going out.

The show was billed as An Evening With The Secret Machines; it was just them, no support act. I don't know if the Foo Fighters paid them in lighting, but what they had was better suited to a larger venue with higher ceilings; it was unnervingly like staring into the sun. It was a minor grumble, though. The gig was great, spell-binding almost.

As much as I like gig-inspired road trips, on the way back, I realised how nice it was to see a band I really like, and be able to walk home and sleep in my own bed.