Having gained a member in guitar and keyboard player, Jay, Clay Rings took to Glasgow’s Poetry Club to celebrate the release of their new single ‘Limelight’. While wearing almost exactly the same outfits as when they supported HONEYMOAN a year ago, the Glasgow-based band has injected a dose of soft rock into their sound.
Chemistry between guitarists Oli and Freddie means they are able to slip into skilled instrumental bridges with ease, particularly in ‘In My Bed’. That being said, especially electrifying is when lead singer, Eve, picks up her trumpet. Her solos don’t only display an impressive amount of breath control mid-set, but they lift the music to a higher, funkier level.
In the move to alt-rock, the music takes centre stage. Some of the vocals on their older songs may take a hit with this shift, but ‘Limelight’ and a secret new single performed on the night are well-balanced and pose exciting things to come for Clay Rings.
‘Limelight’, being the purpose of the party, was the night’s main attraction. Exposing a self-absorbed and unsupportive partner, the song unapologetically epitomises the group’s new direction whilst staying true to the catchy pop choruses that make them lovable.
Still a unique feature of their music is Oli’s influence on the band, putting a Spanish spin on lyrics and with Latin music influences coming through occasionally.
Whilst the music can speak for itself, the band’s presence onstage is fun and friendly. Fuelled by Tennent’s, the audience and band members alike are pulled into the groove as Clay Rings continue to prove their merit – the quality of their new single can only call for more glittery alt-rock on the road ahead.
