Though the sound was absolutely horrid, the Godfather of Trip-hop known as U.N.K.L.E. – a.k.a. James Lavelle – came to New York City for the first time via Webster Hall, debuting a live rendition of all those demonic bleeps and dirty Joy Division fuzz he’s known so well for. For the most part it was a success, with a near-epileptic light and AV show going on along the stage’s backdrop. The band was introduced, but we couldn’t catch a muffled word of it. Joel Cadbury, of Britpoppers South, was definitely in tow on vocals for a few tracks, as was Richard File, another UK indie gent who made appearance on U.N.K.L.E.’s latest, War Stories.

The bassist was absolutely sick, fueling the 1500+ fans in attendance and their will to kick up dancing fits. Wish we caught his name. Moment of rockness – a seething charge and punk cut from War Stories called “Morning Rage” that, morphed by the full band, tingled right up our spines, with Livelle honing over the mic, “nothing lasts for ever man.” Take it as a foreshadow to the rest of their tour.–Gavin Paul

Setlist:

Chemistry
Drums
Hold My Hand
Rein
Broken
Burn My Shadow
Lonely Soul
Blackout
Price You Pay
Restless
Mayday
Keys To The Kingdom
Morning Rage
In A State
Rabbit
Eye For An Eye