GiggingNI.com

A typical rainy cold night in Derry, nothing better than a little rock to help get you through the rough night! Having been a Therapy? fan for a while, I was very much looking forward to this gig and it was the icing on the cake to hear that one of my favourite unsigned Northern Irish acts Dutch Schultz, whose album 'Carve Our Names' recieved 4 K's from Kerrang!, would be supporting.

When Dutch Schultz took to the stage the atmosphere in the crowd was like an awkward school disco where everyone lined up around the walls and scared to go near the barrier. But as they kick into their catchy songs like 'Bends in the Middle', there is definitely some movement from the crowd. By the end of the set, Dutch Schultz have gained a lot of new fans.

Now for the band we have been waiting for - Therapy?. Andy Cairns, Neil Cooper and Michael McKeegan take to the stage with a big applause from this tiny Derry crowd. They kick in with a track from their new album 'I Told You I Was Ill'. Even though they celebrate their 20th anniversary this year I'm sure (even though I never got to see them back then) they put just as much effort into their live performance as they did back in the early 90's. They played every track from their fantastic new album 'Crooked Timber' also. But of course the classics were in there too like 'Teethgrinder' and 'Screamager' alongside many more! They did not fail to impress, filling their set with passion and noise, just like a Therapy? gig should be! Andy Cairns was in top form and kept the crowd entertained between songs. After singing every word of their last song, 'Nowhere' from the legendary "Troublegum" album, I left the Nerve Centre sweaty, a bit bruised but with a huge grin on my face!

Therapy? will be coming to Belfast in December again so be sure to check them out!

Venue: The Nerve Centre, Derry - Date: 14/5/2009

GiggingNI.com Rating: 8/10 - Review By: Ciara McMullan