Gig Review | Ruvellas @ Beat Generator | 19/05/23

There was a showcase of the tremendous talent of Tayside on Friday night at Beat Generator in Dundee as four local bands proved you don’t need to be in the central belt to see a top show.

KNACKERED

Kicking things off were the most tired band in Scotland. Perth indie boys KNACKERED are one of the most versatile acts you’ll see. Logan Gilmartin and Elliot Miln swap lead vocal duties and everyone gets a go on guitar. That includes drummer Finn Lennon who swaps places with guitarist Tom McGregor for one song. Closing track and latest single ‘SPIRALS’ is a top, top tune and definitely one to check out if you haven’t already.

Musica

Musica were up next, showcasing some of the slickest guitar riffs you’re likely to see anywhere. Another group that like to make use of the dual frontman system with Finlay Baxter and Frazer John sharing vocal duties. Although mainly an alt rock group, you’ll find influences from several different genres in Musica’s set. The band released their debut single ‘Persian Rug’ at the end of March and you can find the track on all major streaming platforms.

The Medinas

It would be easy to compare any Dundee indie band to the cities most famous sons The View, in the case of The Medinas, frontman Cameron Neillie even has the look of a younger Kyle Falconer. The thing that struck me most about The Medinas is just how many anthemic choruses they have. Almost every track has a chorus that will live rent free in your head for days on end. The band are now set to have a small break but they’ll be back soon enough and I’m sure they’ll be better than ever.

Ruvellas

Whilst the chants from the crowd of ‘Ruvellas on fire’ perhaps needs a bit more workshopping, headliners Ruvellas run like a well-oiled machine. This band has it all, from the showstopping thunderous anthems that wouldn’t look out of place on an early Oasis album to sing along tracks that you can imagine entire festival crowds belting out in unison. Vocalist Aiden Stuart isn’t just an outstanding singer, he’s a proper frontman that knows how to hold a crowd.

The rhythm section of the group consisting of Ben Gowans on bass, Matthew Short on guitar and Jock Fullerton on drums are a solid unit that allows Stuart and lead guitarist Lewis Ofarell to really shine. It’s a textbook rock ‘n’ roll performance from start to finish. Whilst there are currently no more upcoming shows for Ruvellas I thoroughly recommend keeping up to date with the band’s social pages so you don’t miss out on seeing these lads live. You won’t be disappointed.