Moshpits, Mayhem and a Mega sense of...Did Orca's bassist lose his 'dancing with his bass' crown?

Night People, a relatively good sized gig venue where a few whales may have played earlier in their band journey?

Strolling down the streets of Manchester, up past Canal Street where night life thrives and into Night People we went. Doors to the venue opened at 7:30pm and the small crowd that turned up for then made their way into the venue room. Half an hour went by and it was time for the first band to play.

The Pettibones, a duo garage rock band primarily based in Stratford Upon Avon. Members Ben Bryan (Vocals/Guitar) and Anna GM (Drums). This band all-in-all had some decent 'boppers' a very contagious set of guitar riffs and at some points throughout the set, an even more highly enjoyable set of drum beats. There was an eclectic range of songs, one being a balladesque tempo and overall this 2 piece had a welcoming sense of stage presence. The Pettibones were an incredible introduction into the night of incredibly talented bands and set the tone for what was to come.

Finishing their set pretty much on que, left a 10 minute gap into the next band during which time was time for me to get re-acquainted with my trusty side kick. My camera. Being the photographer for this next band was inconceivable and is something that I would happily continue to do. 8:35pm sped around and welcomed on the stage The Mards.

The Mards, a 4 piece indie rock/alternative rock band based in Manchester. Members Archie Gardiner (Vocals/Guitar), Adam Jackson (Guitar), Ash Jarvis (Bass) and Archie Wilkinson (Drums). Their first gig? You never would have guessed it. With a vast range of songs, and a rather dancey bassist. Is it possible that Ash, out danced Orca's very own Ben?

From the luscious hair flips of Adam, to the highly hypnotizing drums of Archie, this band far from disappointed. Although their set may have gone faster than they had anticipated, they dealt with the situation in a professional manner and filled the remaining time of their set with a new original that was in the works. Frontman and guitarist Archie, stood on stage in a stripped down song that was in progress. It was just Archie and his guitar, with Adam stood right by his side, and 2 rather supportive band members that stood behind him dancing the song away. Finally finishing their set 5 minutes earlier than scheduled the boys came off stage eagerly anticipating Orca with the audience.

Frontman Harry's animal love? Whales. That's right, the night that a lot of us have been waiting for. Orca's first ever debut single launch show and headliner. What better venue than where it all started for them. Orca had been teasing for a week that their set was going to be something that the audience hadn't seen before and it was time to live up to that.

Opening up with songs new and some song that were well known they kick started their night with a new song that, may just be my new favourite. There must be something about the Night People venue because bassist Ben was interacting with the crowd during every intermission between songs. A nostalgic moment that dates back to their first time live. Although I must say, Ben you must just humor me when you're on stage with the faces you pull and those dance moves. Finishing off their set at the end of the night with the new single and beloved song of theirs Starfish, got people moving, grooving and singing.

To sums up the night, The Pettibones are a band that I would happily see again. They were incredible and were enjoying themselves up on stage. The Mards, are definitely a band that are going to be a returning favourite and not just because of the very smiley guitarist or the incredibly dance ridden bassist. Finally, Orca. You should be extremely proud of yourselves, the night was incredible. You all performed your hearts out and I've come to accept that those drums are going to get beaten up by Dan. Although I don't agree with your methods Mr Wright, I do enjoy your enthusiasm and devotion.

Now the topic at hand...Who was groovier on the bass, The Mards' Ash or Orca's Ben? It is exceedingly hard to choose a winner. Ben will always be the top man dancing with his bass, that relationship isn't backing away from first place anytime soon however I think for last nights shenanigans it is going to be joint first place boys! Ash was just too groovy with that bass not to be a winner, but Ben was also too dancey to not allow to stay in his top spot.