Suburban
Speed

Before the Dust Settles is a series of instant gig reviews, written immediately after the show and limited to 200 words.

Band: This Is The Kit
Venue: Portland Arms, Cambridge
Date: 27th January, 2016

In my head This Is The Kit are a bit of a secret. This is illogical because the last time I saw them they played to thousands at Alexandra Palace, as guests of The National, and tonight's show - in a 200 capacity venue - is sold out.
 This time around they are a trio, the ever present Katie Stables joined by Rozi Plain on bass and Jamie Whitby-Coles on drums, and together they make a wonderfully minimal version of modern folk music.
 The Bashed Out album dominates the set, and reminds us just how good a record it is, and we are also treated to a couple of new songs. The capacity audience never uttered a word when the band played, but when Katie rambled - rather endearingly it has to be said - between songs she got plenty of interaction. There was a light hearted battle over which air con unit should be left on - crowd or band - with the crowd getting their way.
 Every time I've seen This Is The Kit they have been excellent and tonight was no exception, and it was an added bonus to see them in such an intimate setting after so long.