Words by Maisy Banks
Ahhh the 14th birthday party; cue the happy birthday chorus of pubescent Scooby Doo voices as you mark the fact you may now drive an electronically assisted pedal bike in Scotland. WHAT A MILESTONE. However, clearly above the age old traditions of laser quest and party poppers, it’s obvious that by 14 Lexi truly knows how to party. I’m asked if my names on the list and fitted with a wristband as I enter an establishment drenched in whiskey and dripping with exclusivity. With an impressive line up of bands, 14 marked for the Lexington the year the roof was raised!
Photo: Maisy Banks
I arrive, admittedly a little late, and catch the end of Double Helix. Not a group I’d seen before, I was impressed by their soundscape of 90s rave meets punk. Their giddy sound and visuals wash over me as I watch the sea of heads gently bobbing in time with each other; all together it’s quite inebriating - the kind of music you could get drunk off. The projections creating an experience that is not just sonic, but an artistic installation to lose oneself in.
Photo: Maisy Banks
Prima Queen followed, their shoe gaze dream pop a little different from the rest of the bands, but despite this, as well as being a few members down, they held the stage well. The chemistry between the two front women as they lovingly grin at each other adds to the sweetness delivered by the tender lyrics and vocal harmonies, the guitar lines equally dainty. Truly a summers day sound, the music was a welcome escape from the wind and wet outside on the otherwise inclement March evening. The addition of the violin played while singing, a skill mastered by few, is wildly impressive; the warm tone is the perfect finishing touch for the delivery of their delicate, ethereal sound.
Photo: Maisy Banks
And finally, the spectacle that is Opus Kink.
I note first the suitability of the venue as host to their tales of wild western gun slinger Wild Bill; the track plays and I conjure an image of him perusing the selection of American whiskeys downstairs as a large glass slides down the bar landing directly in his palm. The sort of punk space cowboy persona that the band embody is right at home in the Lexington. From the beginning they hold the audience in the palm of their hand with their high energy and captivating stage presence. The crowd respond accordingly to the riotous cacophony of horns and synths, marching to the impeccable groove of the rhythm section; its been a while since I’ve been so completely convinced at the possibility of the floor caving in. Drummer Fin Abbo takes a solo - it seems as if time stands still, even the rest of the band stop and watch in awe. Cheers erupt as each member rejoins.
Front man Angus Rogers owns the stage as he salutes the crowd and all stand to attention; an enigmatic display of frenetic energy and poetic prowess stretched into one long body and adorned with a seasonal easter bonnet. He commands the audience as if his puppets. Their song ‘tarantula’ comes to mind as he scuttles about the stage, limbs flailing. The six of them put together produce a performance that is unapologetically chaotic but immaculately executed. A sight to behold, a sound to witness, a spectacle to be seen by all. And so, despite departing without a party bag or slice of Tesco tray bake in sight, I left what was just about the best 14th birthday party I have ever attended. Thank you Lexi.
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