As I stood on the EL platform waiting for my train, I found myself looking forward to the Clip CD release show I was on my way to see, even though I pretty much knew what to expect from the band. My faithful readers will recall that I reviewed them early last year as part of the CHaT Electric Showcase at the Abbey Pub. Their blend of electronic precision and rock edge caught my ear then and has held it for the last year, which is surprising as I am no great fan of electronica. I am, however, a fan of tight, consistent live bands with good hooks and Clip succeeds on that level. I knew I was in store for a trippy, trance-y, highly textured rock and roll show that I would enjoy.

True to form, Clip did not disappoint. Their sound is electronic enough to almost qualify as dance music but rock and roll enough to still be palatable live. Vocalist Keri Campbell came across cool and confident and the band and their machines laid down groove after groove behind her. The set featured material from the bands’ brand spanking new long-player entitled Life Without Blinking which this whole event was in honor of. The one thing that struck me as different and positive from Clip shows past was guitarist Dave Colombe. I don’t know if he is working with different gear or has simply been refining his approach, but his guitar tone blended seamlessly with the band and almost took on a synth-like quality at times. He was much edgier the first time I heard him and seemed to play on top of the band. At this show, the edge was still there, but the overall sound of his axe was fuller and fit with the electronic elements of the band's show in a more convincing way. Plus his ever-present kilt is an interesting and unusual touch.