The Sky’s The Limit... Altered Sky In Manchester
Published
What a band and what a future is in store for this lot! It was a real honour to have been present at this gig. Not only because it took place at such an iconic Manchester venue, but because I knew nothing about the band and was surprised and genuinely excited by their verve, tenacity and all-round energy.
A five piece, formed back in 2010, this is a band that is going places, and they know it. From the opening ‘I know you know’ to the end of the set, the crowd rocked along, a fervent bunch who tour with the band and make their presence felt in a big way, to the enjoyment of everyone present. Led by lead vocalist Ana Nowosielska and singing along to songs that were a mixture of both old and new, well-worn and unreleased.
"Decay", "Where I belong", "Traitor in me", "Apple Tree" and "Songbird" passed in enjoyable fashion before the set burst onto a higher level with "The war is mine", "Livewire", "Live for it" and "Bury it all". ‘The war is mine’ was the highlight for me personally a wave of assault on the ears, with controlled aggression and a heavy, progressive beat sounding like a band older in years and much higher in stature. The fact that they can pull off such a polished set, playing to a crowd of less than a hundred, but with the attitude of a stadium band, says it all.
The thing that was really intriguing was that throughout the set, I never compared them to another band as they have their own sound and approach. This is not a run of the mill female fronted combo, they are a polished, accomplished band with a focus on what they do best. Pop-rock at its best, but with a heavy twist. Dirty guitar, booming bass and a rhythmic but rocking drum beat.
‘Praxis’ is a word the late, great Anthony H Wilson, of Factory Records fame, would have used if asked why he did something that seemed less than obvious. I had no idea why I should have taken the task of reviewing Altered Sky when I was asked... I do now. The crowd may have been modest, but all of those present know something that you don’t... yet! Remember where you heard it first, this band will be big, don’t miss the boat.
To find out more about Altered Sky click here.
To visit the Altered Sky Facebook page click here.
Words and pictures by Mark Eastwood
