'Mon The Biff!

When a band of beardy, tattooed men kick-start a gig having already removed their shirts, their intentions are clear. Throughout the next hour, Camden’s Roundhouse was to be transformed into a visceral sweaty cave of musical treasures and the true Biffy fans amongst the crowd were expecting nothing less. Storming the stage like primitive wild animals, the three Scotsmen proved the pure yet unapologetically filthy embodiment of masculinity. Simon Neil’s gravelly vocals lent authenticity to his deeply personal and at times hauntingly romantic lyrics, whilst fiery-haired feral James Johnston assumed mastery of the pounding bass.

Cinematic pop-rock singles ‘Mountains’ and ‘Bubbles’ from Mercury-prize nominated ‘Only Revolutions' arguably incited the fiercest adulation from the crowd, many of whom would have been less familiar with the band’s earlier work having won tickets to the show. However, with a substantial and more importantly, impressive, backlog of hits to choose from, anticipation was rife as to what guitar-ridden beast they would unleash next. ‘Who’s Got A Match’ and ‘A Whole Child Ago’, pieces in crucial fourth album ‘Puzzle’ that most definitely fit together, were particularly welcome surprises that helped fuel the already burning fire of their setlist. Despite the distinct metallic shine to their melodies, Biffy Clyro offered the fans a glimpse of both their versatility and softer side with gentler ballads such as ‘Machines’ and personal latest album favourite ‘Many Of Horror’ allowing for a break from the mosh.

Ending the night with ‘The Captain’, the raucous rock trio bid farewell to the full-force armada of fans they now well and truly had on board. Mon’ the Biff!

Biffy Clyro played Camden Roundhouse, 31/07/10.