Well, their van is still here and I know that is more than a relief for these four likely lads.
Last time LITTLE MAN TATE played this intimate gig at Fibbers in York they had more than than their set list to worry about.
I’m propped up against a mound of tables and chairs, sat with Dan, Jon, Maz and Ben, otherwise knows as the boys that are, Little Man Tate.
Jon: “We had our yellow van nicked last time we played here. Stolen from right outside the back door. They even took our fucking plectrums. We had to get the bleeding train home and everything”
There is a chorus of laughter and you get the feeling that it would take a lot to stop these guys in their tracks.
The lads are very grounded and we chat away as if we’ve known each other for years.
Maz: “It’s weird you know, we just love what we’re doing and where we are right now, we couldn’t ask for any more, what happens, happens.”
Ben: “Yeah its very humbling speaking to people at gigs, it becomes overwhelming at times cause we’re just four mates playing music together. Although it seems so natural, it also seems quite ridiculous that we should be allowed to do this.”
It’s easy to see the appeal with these wide eyed Sheffield born lads, especially against the background of bands that seem to be dotted across the horizon right now. They just are who they are, very real and that comes across in their music.
Everything they sing about has taken place or is stuff they have encountered along the way and their motto “we just live to be live” bodes extremely well.
It is easy to forget that these guys aren’t even signed yet but also quite exciting to see where they are at the moment as they don’t seem too phased by the excitement that surrounds them. I’d also like to take this opportunity by telling people reading this to go sign these lads right now. I can’t think of anyone more appropriate to be tipped for great things.
When discussing the success of fellow natives The Artic Monkeys, the boys become quite excited.
Dan: ”It’s spot on really, they’ve really put Sheffield on the map again and it’s great to see so much enthusiasm for local bands”
|
We shouldn’t forget that Little Man Tate have their very own version of an arctic army with a vast following in their home town, leading to a complete sell-out for their gig at The Grapes this Saturday.
Jon: “It’s mad, it really is mad- but good! We can’t even get our mates in, up until recently there weren’t any tickets available and the guest list was full. It’s crazy but we’re loving every second of it. That’s why it’s so nice to see such an ace turn out when we play further a field. It really is mint.”
There’s nothing hard about describing their music, fuelled with their obvious quirky northern catchy lyrics such as “he’s a cross dresser honey” and spunky rifts, with a resonant bass, you can’t help but move around like a hyperactive kid on day release.
You really have to see these guys live to experience the Little Man Tate sound though as no amount of reviews or photographs will capture their spirit and energy when they play.
As cheesy as it sounds they really are magic when they’re on stage. Jon on vocals and guitar, Ben on bass, Maz on guitar and with new kid on the block, Dan, these guys really do have all the right ingredients. Not only are they talented, funny as hell but they are down to earth with no pretence and I wouldn’t fret if I had to take them home to meet my mum.
More good news is that they have added another date and will be playing York yet again on Tuesday 22nd of November with The Chalets and Tempo Shark.
If I were you, I would go see them while you still can. I know I will."
|
