GIG REVIEW: The DSM IV, Just Rattled, Cinder - Night and Day Cafe Manchester - Wednesday 29 January 2025

Words: Richie Yates, Photos: Adrian Wharton/Richie Yates

Cinder, even with a borrowed in drummer for the night, produce a wealth of shoe gazing type noise. The twin guitar and synth lineup hit up a My Bloody Valentine wall of noise that has grungy guitar riff undercurrents and a depth of half heard half felt melodic tidal wave sound. The vocals vary from deadpan Krautrock delivery to passionate full on rock. The guitarists read each other and complement each other well with fluid yet jagged layers. A complex sound with hidden depths that draw the listener in.

Just Rattled are super tight and their almost surf sounding sounds seem effortless. They can change the dynamics radically, turning on a sixpence from melodic to an in your face roar. Its a dark brooding sound, punctuated by sharp stabs of guitar and some seriously great vocals. The drums and bass loop together tight and energetic and keep it all flowing forward. Its a soundscape that suggests lonely windswept deserts, gunslinging cowboys with hints of martian invasions.

The DSM IV are larger than life. This is a full throttle ride of 80s synths, vicious guitar assaults, dark industrial keys and pounding drum machines. Sonically the band bounce from early Human League to Bauhaus via some goth stylings that Sisters of Mercy would be proud of. The overall result is somewhat unique though, their pop and melodic sensibilities produce deep but catchy tunes that hang in the ear and its backed by an energetic front person who is comfortable on stage and jumping off stage into the audience. The DSM IV emanate cool.