The sun has begun to shine in the hearts of previously lost souls. Lyrical hooks have left enduring themes of shattered dreams and have instead, been hit by cupids bow. The Cambridge deviants that are more commonly known as The Broken Family Band are plugging their fourth album entitled Hello Love. Their whistle stop tour of the UK brings them back to their roots, performing at the Junction to faithful supporters, friends and kinfolk. Witty front man Steven Adams supplies gags and anecdotes between each track, transforming the night into an informal dialogue between parties.

Their hybrid take on alternative sound meeting country meeting punk meeting independent began in 2001. A niche in the market was discovered and pounced upon with an amusing, deep and slightly frightening voice. Making it this far with the support of the small yet quality Track and Field label, and retaining their ‘day jobs’ displays a real talent and achievement. By not succumbing to the grandeur of a rock’n’roll lifestyle with its adoration and power, demands a large slice of respect. The Broken Family Band has adapted to survive without conforming to the music industry’s pretentiousness and ego.

Adams’ slender figure on stage contradicts the noise that escapes from his mouth. He can do mocking and angry, amorous and hungry, obsessive, gentle and cherished all in the same song. The old tracks are enriched by time and recognition, like a maturing friendship, whilst the new ones seep slowly, yet surely into the conscious. The memorable Rogue Elements metal-disco remix Love Your Man, Love Your Woman was a stomping blues-esque delight. Seven Sisters was an energetic, darkly funny account of the detritus personality of an area in north London where Adams resides. The jerky guitar riffs imitate a seizure-like episode as a sly wit slices through everything. Are these guys happy, sad or ambivalent? You’re never quite sure. These masters at work make a tidy racket. It makes you wonder if they’ll continue to contentedly plod on – or is it time more people woke up to their row?

Writer: Anna Gorick

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