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Kiss Me Killer’s Red Lion gig was our best yet as the band joined a stellar lineup put on by local promotors Never Fall Into Silence.

Bristol minimal drone two-piece, Children got things up and running with an intriguing performance and a three amp set-up broadening the sonic possibilities and providing blistering sonic assault. The inventive set featured effects mangling, cymbals played with a violin bow and saw the appearance of an accordion.

Then Kiss Me, Killer fired up. Our new banner, courtesy of drummer AJ, took our immediate stage appeal up a few notches, aided by Holly channelling Jennifer Milo with her New York City leopard print top and Cat possessing effortless punk chic. I (David) dipped into my lurid shirt collection while Nat went weather-appropriate in Pizza Tramp vest and shorts. AJ’s famous swaying, bouncing hair completed the visual feast.

Oldest song Narcissistic Tendencies was played with more purpose, and tighter and punchier than ever, while Rat Race towered like a punk rock titan. Cat’s eviscerating celtic stomper Och Aye! sounded absolutely riotous and with plenty of room for improvising probably the funnest part of the set to play.

Cat makes The Pogues look like Daniel O’Donnell…

‘That’s a proper punk band!’ someone shouted from the crowd. Too right!

A confident, all-conquering Holly encouraged the punters into a bit of audience participation, getting them all on their knees for, er, Do you want Me on My Knees?’. Newer tune It’s Going Down was a fitting finish.

Despite some calls for an encore (need to finish the two new tunes we’re working on), pouring with sweat we retreated to the bar and made way for Widnes rockers and great guys, Forever In Debt, who offered a storming set of fuzz and grunge with some great songs. Headliners Civilised Worm upped the volume and heaviness still further with their Melvins-y sludge power. A noticeable group from Turbonegro’s committed fandom – the Turbojugend – were in attendence and absolutely loved it.

Kiss Me, Killer had an immaculate merch table where people could grab patches, pin badges, femme fatale stickers and, for the first time, our new tshirts! Thanks to Cheri for doing merch duties and for some beautiful photography.

Next gig’s at the Chelsea, Easton on Easter Monday with Fishlock Promotions. We’d love you to come.

UPDATE: Love these photographs? Meg Manley has uploaded some more from the gig.