The Runners opened the night with their rather predictable bouncy “indie-pop” to a half full Qudos. Despite the band’s best efforts the crowd were subdued, and mostly static. The entry of Air Traffic filled the hall, and they opened with what could be described as a mix of Muse with Thom Yorke on vocals, but without the energy or interest. This left the crowd more confused than enthralled, until they crashed into a rendition of their new single Come On. The feeling didn’t last long, and the band seemed to be more interested in getting through their set-list than interacting with the crowd.

The piano-heavy trio from Bournemouth can be easily compared with bands such as Keane and Coldplay, although I think Chris Wall’s vocals could outshine Chris Martin and Tom Chaplin. I say could, because although he has a pure and penetrating upper register he too often slips back into a tedious and dull Klaxonesque drone.
The second half of their set picked up brilliantly, with the guitarist and bassist replacing their instruments with a drum each and proceeding to beat out a catchy rhythm, with Wall’s piano and better voice singing the love song No More Running Away. This was a nice change to what was becoming a monotonous gig, getting both the crowd and band in a better mood.

Drummer David Jordan took a quick break to bandage his hand after some over-enthusiastic playing, but remained on fine
form for the rest of the night. The XFM New Music nominees saved their best songs from their debut album Fractured Life for the end of the gig, finishing on Charlotte and the magical Shooting Star. This left the crowd with a good impression of what was an altogether average night.

Review by Tom Quinn.