Demob Happy 14/12/24
Invited| Review by Michael Dunwell
Newcastle has long been a breeding ground for incredible indie talent, and the city’s music scene continues to deliver fresh, dynamic sounds. From global breakout stars like Sam Fender to local gems like The Pale White, Jango Flash, Melanie Baker, and countless others, Newcastle’s creative pulse beats strong. This Saturday at The Grove, Demob Happy returned to their roots with a show that was nothing short of triumphant—and the hometown crowd made sure the band felt the love. The evening was a celebration of pure, untamed energy, with the crowd electrified by the trio’s heavy, riff-driven sound from the first note. Moshing, soaring choruses, and an overwhelming wave of instrumental power kept the adrenaline high throughout the night. It was a hometown show for the ages—loud, raw, and unforgettable.
Held at The Grove, a cozy 350-capacity venue nestled between Byker and Ouseburn, the night’s performance was amplified by the venue’s vibrant atmosphere. The Grove has earned a reputation as a go-to spot for both music lovers and casual drinkers alike, thanks to its diverse selection of craft beers, cocktails, and a laid-back vibe that spills over into its outdoor area in warmer months. For those looking to refuel during a night out, the venue’s culinary offerings are not to be missed: Byker Slice serves up delicious, wood-fired pizzas, while Baby Pablo, a street food van created in collaboration with the renowned Pablo Eggs-go-Bao, delivers mouth-watering bao buns that have become the stuff of local legend.
Demob Happy, the powerhouse trio consisting of Matt Marcantonio (bass, lead vocals, lyricist), Tom Armstrong (drums, vocals), and Adam Godfrey (guitar, vocals), took the stage to a raucous reception. Their music combines the best elements of classic rock with a modern edge, drawing comparisons to bands like The Amazons, Cleopatrick, and Reignwolf. Their sound, which evokes the spirit of ’70s rock, is laced with catchy, harmony-rich backing vocals, and Matt’s unmistakable voice gives every track a touch of nostalgic authenticity. However, what makes Demob Happy stand out is their ability to infuse their music with a raw, contemporary energy that feels fresh and exciting.
The band’s guitars are heavy and distorted, giving the sound a gritty intensity, while Adam’s searing guitar solos take the music to exhilarating heights. Matt’s basslines, full of catchy and propulsive riffs, anchor the songs with an infectious groove that drives them forward. The band’s ability to balance explosive anthemic choruses with blistering guitar work makes their live shows a thrilling experience. It’s a masterful fusion of nostalgia and innovation, where classic rock influences meet a bold, modern sensibility.
A particular highlight of the night was the performance of Man You’re Wrong, a track that shines both on record and in the live setting. The song’s infectious, catchy beat was driven by a standout drum performance from Tom, and the way the music almost “falls” into the chorus created a dynamic, addictive rhythm. Matt’s throwaway vocals, fueled with sarcasm and confidence, added to the track’s irresistible charm, reminding me of the angular, biting style of bands like Yard Act, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, and Fontaines D.C.
It was also a special moment when Jack Hope, drummer of The Pale White, joined Demob Happy on stage for a song, stepping in behind the kit. The camaraderie between Newcastle’s music scene is great to see, with bands happy to help each other out and share the stage. It’s a testament to the strength and unity of the city’s local music culture, and it’s moments like these that highlight what makes Newcastle such a unique and welcoming place to experience live music. In a world where competition often defines the music scene, the spirit of collaboration here is refreshing and heartening.
In addition to their hits, Demob Happy treated the crowd to a couple of new tracks. While I’m not 100% sure if they have an album in the works for next year, these new songs indicate that 2025 could be a huge year for the band if they decide to release them. The audience’s reaction spoke volumes—before long, a mosh pit had formed, and the energy in the room was nothing short of electric. Even more heartening was seeing fans helping each other up when someone fell during the chaos, underscoring the sense of community and care that defines Newcastle’s live music scene. There’s something special about the way the crowd looks out for one another here, and it adds a layer of warmth to every show.
All in all, it was an incredible night. Demob Happy absolutely smashed their homecoming gig, blending new material with their fan favorites in a show that reminded us why we love live music. It was a real pleasure to see them again after so many years, and I can’t wait for them to return home to Newcastle in the near future. If you haven’t seen them live yet, I highly recommend you do—Demob Happy’s blend of high-octane rock and infectious energy is not to be missed.