The Itch
The Grace, London

 
THE start of the year always sees a selection of showcases as venues look to fill rooms and give new bands a chance to shine in the depths of winter.

At Highbury’s The Grace, in front of a packed crowd, London’s The Itch – as distinct from a number of identically monikered bands – storm the small stage with their own brand of indie pop rock cum dance that echoes a host of bands through the ages.
 
Over the course of an eight-song set you have synth beats and loops, experimental art rock merged with good old indie pop. Adding some nu rave grooves this is a set that is tight, light and intriguing all while getting you moving and grooving.
 
Having emerged from the ashes of Regressive Left, this deft, mildly acerbic and in terms of lyrics arch punk pop take on society is well worth seeking out.

If a bit of Bryan Ferry Roxy Music crooning shtick is your bag, then third track Ursula stands out with the band doing their best to put the world to rights while keeping a collective groove going as lead singer Simon Tyrie channels Japan era David Sylvian while bashing his keys.