On Monday 8th August 2005 Noisy organised it's first ever gig showcasing a handful of bands featured in issue 1, to raise money for local charity HARP (Homeless Action Resource Project). The night was a success with 130 people turning up at Chinnery's on Southend Seafront to see three* Essex acts strut their stuff for a good cause - it was worth it - we raised £230!!
Return of the Furies hit Southend for the very first time and rocked like demons with their blend of fierce punk rock and heavy metal riffs. After a set consisting of blistering tracks such as 'Megaera', 'Lovesick Poem' and 'Bloody Mary' from the band's first EP, Southend were well and truly won over by the all-girl 4-piece and that aforementioned EP flew off the merch table and into the hands of their newly acquired fan base by the sea quicker than you can say 'Greek Mythology'!
Second up was popular female-fronted 5-piece Trash Monroe. The Decision to debut a few new tracks tonight including 'Needles' and the very rocking 'Pandora's Box' gave hardcore fans an extra-special treat, whilst firm favourites like 'Fcuk Family' and 'Used 2' ensured that this set was most definitely one of their most exciting & energetic yet! Front woman Melany sang beautifully and the band's melodic rock (or is it goth metal?!) sounds attracted a host of new admirers and kept the old ones happy too - there was a queue for autographs afterwards!
Last, but by no means least, The Joint Conspiracy took to the stage and delivered a set of groovy bluesy/funky rock - vocalist Ryan pulled out all the stops tonight - much hat throwing and a talking toy taking over vocal duties briefly, added to the excitement - or should that be surreal quality - of the final set of the evening. Tracks we've come to know and love such as 'Love On', 'Homegrown' and 'Tomorrow' made up the bulk of the set, and fast and furious new song 'The Cold' ended the show with a much-deserved bang! There were smiles all round when Ryan announced we had managed to raise £230 for local charity HARP (Homeless Action Resource Project) and everybody went home happy!
A huge thanks to all the bands involved for playing for free, trusting us to organise a gig and sharing kit. Also big thanks to Mike @ Chinnery's, Steve Phoenix FM, Dave of HARP, Alison B., everybody who bought merch & those who came along and supported us, of course!
Should anyone wish to make further donations to the charity, cheques can be sent to: HARP, 1a, Princes street, Southend SS1 1QA. Make cheques payable to: HARP.
*The Big Slow did not perform. We apologise to both the band and their fans for any inconvenience caused.