Southend’s Rooskin played their hometown venue Chinnery’s this past Friday in support of fellow local band The Waterfalls. Having been away for 19months, and with a big crowd in, could they deliver?
At times, Rooskin transcended music. Maybe it’s the long wait for gigs but, their brand of hazy love songs and sunny climates was the warming embrace Southend needed. ‘Donnie’ drifted across the coastline to thaw even the coldest souls with its infectious joy. Like all special songs, it began to take on new meaning via its lyrics:
“I’ve been looking for love / in all the wrong places / it’s been tearing me up and I’m sick of waiting”
The poor life choices and dangerous crutches society have leaned on to get through the lockdown flood to the surface. However, the effortless guitars and glory of the vocals ushered the room back to positive planes.
Upcoming single ‘Eloise’ (released 20th August), got its first airing and, did not disappoint. A sense of hope permeated the room. As they sing of the West Coast, a spirit powerfully forms and feelings that all is not lost and never give up filled hearts once again.
Rooskin’s laid-back nebulous is given an injection on set closer ‘Goldfish’. The added bombast brought about a clarity and future for all to follow them off stage with. Dreams and schemes among the young crowd were almost tangible as their licks and harmonies soared upon the horizon.
Music lovers will always discuss why certain bands don’t make it. Unlucky, the look, charisma, etc. In Rooskin’s case, there’s nothing to talk about. They look like a gang, bonded together by in-jokes, love, and desire. There’s a wit to their between-song patter that forges more love with the crowd. They have all the indefinable qualities to go with sublime alt-pop melodies. You simply cannot deny this band!