Even the bad weather can’t stop a small army of music lovers from squeezing into the KCLSU on this bleak Thursday night, and as the house lights dim, it’s Welsh rockers Straight Lines that introduce themselves to this audience with the obvious intent. Their risk-free songwriting is an easy listen that conjures up memories of Jimmy Eat World’s earlier days, but they are met with a rather unenthusiastic applause from the audience. Playing an enjoyable collection of tracks from the debut ‘Persistence is the Game’, new single ‘Half Gone’ impresses most with its hooks and catchy melodies.

Having been making music for nearly a decade, Canterbury have built-up a loyal fan base for their radio-friendly tunes and, as they take to the stage, deafening screams overpower the band’s opening feedback. First track ‘Peace And Quiet’ hurls the four-piece headfirst into their set whilst a sea of heads bob up and down in front of them. Unfortunately, as they blast out new single ‘Ready Yet?’, mid-set fatigue starts to set in and their harmonies begin to waver. Whilst the energy in the room never seems to drop, a couple of dodgy vocals detract from it somewhat.

By the time the last couple of songs are aired, all seems to have been forgiven and the band appears to be back to full strength. Closing track ‘Friends? We’re More Like A Gang’ is performed with a staggering degree of passion that involves both band and audience in call and response vocals – a great ending to a somewhat average performance.

Rob Bramhill