Live Review: Cal Peck & The Tramps, Rag 'N' Bone

After releasing a slew of EPs over the past five years, last Friday's launch at Devilles saw the release of much loved garage blues outfit Cal Peck & The Tramps' first ever album. After such a long wait, anticipation filled the room, as did early punters.

Newcomers Rag'n'Bone kicked off proceedings with a set of dirgy blues numbers. The drummer's cowboy hat made the band look like they had flown in direct from a smoky Texas dive bar. Vocalist Kiera Owen seemed to summon immense power from her small frame, howling pitch perfect screams on cue, while the rhythm section kept the twanging blues chugging along nicely. As they finished their set with a track called Femme Fatale, which seemed to typify their sultry blues sound, the crowd showed their enthusiastic approval.

After a break, it was time for Cal Peck & The Tramps to hit the stage. As the curtains opened the dance floor erupted into a frenzy of movement. The venue almost seemed purpose built for the band, with its vintage tinsel backdrop and go-go dancers, and the band looked right at home. Whipping through a swag of toe-tapping tunes including Break Out, Cinnamon and Calling For Me (Why), the band also did a ripper version of the Buddy Guy classic I've Got My Eyes On You.

At times Peck's guitar-picking style echoed that of Delta blues greats RL Burnside and Junior Kimbrough. His vocals were reminiscent of Memphis garage legend Greg Cartwright of the Oblivians and Reigning Sound, but seemed heartfelt and not contrived. All tracks were punchy, effectively showcasing a unique blend of vintage blues and garage rock'n'roll. After ending their set with yet another dance-worthy number, the crowd hollered for one more and the band obliged.

The Tramps finished their last song with self-assuredness, as if the past five years had instilled a sense of grit and authenticity that many bands strive for in this genre, but rarely achieve. One thing was for sure, after a long wait they had delivered the goods and the crowd couldn't be happier.