What would ex Boyracer member Jed and ex indie sweet band Grammatics synth player sound like together? Not perfect. But that’s what made their band Wonderswan so addictively charming.


Playing at Tiger Trap, Leeds new all-request alternative night at Santiagos, they were experienced yet youthful, gently arousing the audience. (Think early Cribs gigs, sweaty, overcrowded, smothered with anticipation- before NME labeled the North ‘cool’ and ruined it all). The tracks were playful, characterised by staccato chords and confident expressive drumming, all concealing the Julian Cassablancas-esque sexualised moaning. The scuzzy set mirrored that of Times New Viking’s and Psychedelic Horseshit with the unpolished, half buried slurred vocals “...you said, we could maybe go to bed, but you never call”. Frequently inaudible, but who needs to hear the singers voice anyway? Constant technical difficulties only added to the defective yet brilliant thoughts of ‘it’s only a gig, everyone is pissed - no-one will notice’ attitude.


This raw and honest gig at Tiger Trap has set the challenge for future bands at new Leeds club nights. With bigger venues hosting national bands aiming to seduce the students, (Carling Academy, The Courteeners and overprices drinks? No thanks) it’s a positive thought to know that Wonderswan are wanting to do the opposite. And better.

Posted In Live Reviews, Oct 02 2008. Words - Charlotte