Black Lakes electric at Leo’s

Review and Photos by Dave Martin/Faversham Photography

The Music Venue Trust recently put out a post stating “The Next Big Thing Just Played Your Local Venue” and having walked away from an evening that was not as planned I can’t help but think that is true of Black Lakes. Having arranged to review the event for co headliners Fahran that unfortunately pulled out of the event my disappointment was replaced with excitement when Black Lakes took to the stage. The intrigue started as singer Will Preston lugged two interesting flight cases to the stage. The boxes turned out to be pressure operated uplighters that really added to the drama of the set and props like these are not something that I am used to seeing at grass root venues. The stage at Leo’s has hosted Icons such as Steve Harris and from the performance of Black Lake they may have futures stars having graced the stage. Performing a mixture of songs from their back catalogue and their latest release “Dead Gods” the band enthralled those in attendance. As a photographer I couldn’t put the camera down from the starting hooded entrance to the Scott Bradshaw and James Rowlands leaping off the drum riser. The range of photo opportunities far exceeded those normally afforded at an event like this and all credit to the band for their display. The crowd clearly enjoyed what they were seeing too as they were jumping, head banging and singing along. The energy from the band did not abate through the entire set. This band is going to go far and I anticipate it will not be long until they are playing major festivals.