Swathed beneath a veil of mystery, Young Fathers orbited into the public consciousness after last year’s shock Mercury Prize victory – staving off competition from the likes of Royal Blood and Damon Albarn.
Though still not an established household name, at the Rescue Rooms it was plain to see why they’re held in such lofty regard.
The trio, hailing from Edinburgh, have been a tough act to label throughout their fledgling existence. Though rooted in hip-hop territory, they traverse paths where art rock, Motorik and electro all intersect. It’s a truly inimitable blend which is salient from the get-go.
Anchored by a touring drummer, the group tear through a visceral set – pouring out their soul over dystopian beats. On-stage, their chemistry is mesmerising. With essentially three distinct frontmen, each member constantly grapples for centre stage, to the extent that they coalesce into one frenetic entity.
Of all attributes, discord is a tenet of Young Fathers’ trademark sound. While Ally Massaquoi’s graceful vocal momentarily softens the intensity, cohorts Kayus Bankole and G Hastings spit caustic rhymes of angst and disaffection. The band’s charm lies in this unique incongruence.
Breakout track Get Up sees the trio amped up to the highest of planes. In what is the closest they’ll get to a fully-fledged hip-hop banger, the group urge the listener to “get up and have a party.” This, their mantra, is delivered with unbridled vigour.
Amidst all the chaos, there are lulls of undeniable beauty. Low, from award-winning album Dead, is a wistful number which further showcases Massaquoi’s soulful warble. Hanging over a plangent backbeat, the track throttles into life when reaching its explosive hook.
At a time when live music can be so insipid and predictable, along come Young Fathers. By championing a genre-bending ideology, the frantic three-piece more than justify the buzz that precedes them. If ever in doubt, it’s now time to believe the hype.
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