Many people – probably due to their name and their hilarious social media presence – think that The Rhythm Method are a parody band. It couldn’t be further from the truth, however, as not only are the duo a terrific live band but they’ve got fantastic pop songs in abundance. Subsequently, a Saturday night in Sticky Mike’s basement with the band’s infectious pop songs about politics, football and nuanced social observations provided one of the more humorous, enjoyable and entertaining gigs of the year. Make no mistake about it, The Rhythm Method are one of the freshest acts on the indie circuit.

Brighton quartet Ezekiel Doo kicked off the night’s events with their anti-psych. With a sound that half originates from American indie-rock of the 90s, as well as grunge and psychedelia, they’re a difficult proposition to get into. However, with their intricate guitar lines and clever musicianship, they’re an impressive live force.

Playing only their second ever gig, with their first gig coming at at Camden’s The Lock Tavern the night before, Brighton five-piece Stiff Limbs graced us with their self-proclaimed “wonky punk”. For a group so early in their career, as a live band they were mightily impressive. Most of this comes through lead singer Bethany Terry, whose dynamite vocals and charismatic presence gave the band another level. Whether she was jumping the barrier to join the crowd, or stalking the stage, she was lively, unpredictable and a whole load of fun. Stiff Limbs are certainly a band to watch.

”If you only wanted to hear that song, you can leave now. We’ve made it easier for you,” stated Joey after their riotous opening of ‘Chin Up’, such was the cult following for the best unofficial England World Cup song in a long, long time. Of course, no one left – and thankfully so – as The Rhythm Method got better and better as they went on. It’s here where the band shine; there’s no pretence and they’re simply here to get the job done – in sheer deadpan fashion.

‘Something for the Weekend’ and ‘Party Politics’ followed, showcasing the band’s incredible knack for a pop chorus as well as their very clever word play. For example: “Be my Cherie Blair, I’ll be your Cherie Amour” from ‘Party Politics’ is a turn of phrase you’d only hear from the band. Like The Streets meets Madness, The Rhythm Method are the sound of today. Lively, invigorating and just immensely fun, the band should, and could, be the soundtrack of today’s youth.

The Rhythm Method could be well on their way to becoming one of the most underrated bands in the country. Their uniqueness and sheer daftness is of course a selling point, but in these politically turbulent times The Rhythm Method make complete sense. Not only do they make fantastic pop songs that get stuck in your head instantly, but there’s no bravado or arrogance about the band at all. They’re enjoying it as much as their audience are and it’s extremely refreshing. They gave just enough to keep people happy, with them still wanting more, and that’s exactly what you want from a gig in this setting. It was pretty much the perfect Saturday night gig.

Liam McMillen

Facebook: facebook.com/therhythmmethodse1
Twitter: twitter.com/thrhythmmthd