London outfit Leif Erikson took to the Café Totem stage on a chilly October evening. Bringing with them their atmospheric and inimitable style, thoroughly warming the cockles of the crowd that had gathered in the dark basement to see them.
A fairly sedate crowd gathered to see what Leif Erikson had to offer and they were not left disappointed. A technically complex setup with what seemed like a constantly flickering and shimmering pedalboard shows just how well oiled the Leif Erikson machine is. Heavily reliant on their effects pedals for their dynamic sound the band really showed Sheffield what they were capable of. Their ability to both pull on the heartstrings and conversely make you want to crush some beers and go partying is a credit to the band who had earlier this year released the highly anticipated LP ’21 Grams’. A follow-up to the 2017 self-titled debut album.
The set consisted of a mix of their newer releases and their now well polished early tracks. There is a cohesion to the band which is evident from the knowing glances shared between the band during their set. Despite the rather sparsely populated dance floor there are signs of life in the crowd as the band start to get into their flow after their performance of their more well known track ‘Concrete and Steel’ which they promptly and ever so kindly dedicate to the city of Sheffield – well known obviously for its steel production.
As the set continues there is no sign of the tempo of the band dropping with the incessant and pinpoint accuracy of the drums maintaining their upbeat and dynamic sound. A jazz infused sort of off-beat rhythm was executed brilliantly throughout the show. With the keyboard and wavy sounding guitars backing up and emphasising the warm, atmospheric glow of Leif Erikson.
With each change of song there is a small delay whilst the two frontmen decipher which of their effects pedals to use for the next track. Showing again how heavily reliant and accomplished the band are with their effects. This does allow for some crowd interaction. All very jovial, whilst still carrying out business. Explaining to the audience that if they don’t sell enough records at the merch desk, they won’t be able to afford the diesel for the van to make it to Bristol. This is well received by the audience who at the end of the show flock to the desk to make their purchases. In the process keeping the Leif Erikson show on the road.
Despite a rather small crowd (Wednesday night in a Student city is always a tricky one), Leif Erikson showed what they were made of and showcased a new track ‘Question Time’. Another song of similar ilk to their recent LP. This time loaded with a bit more crunch.
The vibe of the band resembles the likes of Fleet Foxes or even Kurt Vile. The bands oneness with nature and the surrounding environment leaves the doors wide open to escapist views translated superbly into their music; worth a listen during long winter nights spent studying or unwinding after a long day.
Image: Peterbedford22
