Two Day Rule

Bristol’s Two Day Rule are an exception to the current tidal wave of home-grown pop punk bands who seem to think that they can do it better than their American counter-parts. Basically because they can. Backed up by a stunning rhythm section, joint vocalists/ guitarists Andrea and Neil bring to the stage a healthy camaraderie, exploiting the endless boy-girl storyline possibilities to the max, as exposed superbly in single ‘Had A Good Thing’. The chemistry between the two elevates the live experience from the album ‘When You’re Ready’, making songs like ‘Better Off Now’ border on anthemic.

Flirting with all out chant-along rock on ‘No Doubt’, they skirt from ska to sugary melodic punk with a good little hardcore riff thrown in. More often than not all in the same song. A good time, uplifting band, Two Day Rule know how to have fun without the expense of the songs. Heck even I would have danced along to ‘Johnny and Loretta’ as told, if only I had someone who’d comply.

Although they don’t take themselves seriously, this isn’t to say that Two Day Rule are in any way lacking on the musical front. Their ‘tongue-in-cheek’ attitude is totally at odds with the fact that they’re both tighter and more skilful than is strictly necessary. They have no need for the ‘snotty shouting syndrome’, trademark of many a female singer lacking in the necessary department, thanks to Andrea Kenny, whose talents ensure diverse vocal melodies, whilst the harmonising of Neil Murray adds a welcome dimension to the songs. Comparisons to Dance Hall Crashers? Just add tunes and pace x10 plus a self-effacing sense of humour that can only derive from Bristol, I guess.

With the only disappointing aspect of their set being the slightly muted state of Neil’s microphone, onstage Two Day Rule parade their heady brand of passionate melodic punk courtesy of debut album ‘When You’re Ready,’ triumphantly.