Dr. Dog Live at Borderline (London, 4-Nov 08)

What a refreshing experience! A proper live show. After years of pretentious dj sets, "live" laptop mixing, and 'friends gigs' it was so refreshing to see a proper gig. But no i'm not talking about Bruce Springstein live at the Fleet Centre, this was a gig.

London's Borderline club is one of those places that if you don't look up you'd definitely miss it. Wel after 6 years of walking past it every day, this was honestly my first time spotting it. What looked to be like a partial mix between the Alamo and a bad tex mex dive, the vibe of the venue was fantastic. Downstairs in a grimey small laid back venue, where you could sit in wooden rocking chairs between acts.

The two opening acts were alright, nothing much to report on, so I won't.

But as soon as Dr. Dog came on, wow wow! Talk about an election night special for London. Never mind the embassy party and the CNN soiree in Mayfair attended by Josh Hartnett and the like, the Dr. Dog show was the best american event going that night outside of the US.

I was a bit skeptical after seeing them come on stage, hatted, suited and sunglasses in tow. But somehow it all worked. The lead singer and bassist, Toby, screams every song with such enthusiasm and serisousness, it was intense. At times you'd wished he'd just quiet down a bit and use the cruel raspy voice he's blessed with. But the best bit is the wiery ging' on the guitar and vocals (Scott) who's extremly unique voice, stage confidence and fantastic guitar playing really brings together the band. The rest of the band brings together the whole she-bang. I was very very impressed and after nearly 2 hours of great tunes, and a small encore, the night ended.

Overall, a fantastic night. With the Magic Numbers in attendance in the audience, a small talk about election news and some fantastic tunes, this November 4th was definitely a night to remember.