Imperial Leisure @Mr Kyps, 20/03/2010

What has six heads, one horn and a whole new albums worth of material to show off? Skankalicious London based six-piece Imperial Leisure have descended on Mr Kyp's for a night of singing, dancing and a lot of beer. Previously a ten headed, three horned beast, the newly honed ska-rap mob have spent this month on tour around the country, showcasing brand new tracks from their upcoming second album due out in the summer.

Known for their hyper guerrilla gigs and eclectic mix of sounds and styles, Imperial Leisure have played Glastonbury and Reading, toured with ska legends Less Than Jake and even played a mobile gig in front of France’s most recognisable structure. “That place is so iconic,” vocalist Denis Smith remembers, “we didn’t realise what we were doing until we saw the video footage back and couldn’t believe we were actually at the Eiffel Tower!”


Tonight’s set is -as expected - full of bounce and flair. Their music is as infectious as the smiles on the fan's faces and the new material goes down a treat. Its classic tracks 'In a Letter', 'Man On The Street' and 'Alperton' from debut album The Art of Saying Nothing that incite energy in the faithful attending that any band would be envious of.

What makes Imperial Leisure special is the lack of distance between the crowd and the band members themselves. Everyone in the 300 capacity venue tonight is here for the same reason- to have the best time. They’re proud to show off their new work, described by guitarist AJ White as a ‘melting pot of ideas’, and do so with confidence and pizzazz.

At one point the front man finds himself bounding through the crowd, pouring a bottle of cava over their heads and inviting those at the barrier to sing down the mic. Who, of course, are more than willing to oblige. It’s a moment that really highlights the fact that Imperial Leisure are a fans band - and they revel in the interactivity.

As they leave with set closer ‘Untouchable’ and the fitting lyrics of “this place makes my heart pump, when I’m feeling low this lifts me up”, everyone is satisfied and no one could be happier. Especially the young 17-year-old invited backstage for a CD signing for his birthday.

Imperial Leisure are going places and this summer should prove the most exciting yet, when their second album is unleashed amongst the public. A Great British Summertime it shall be indeed.