Last week, The Zanzibar Club in Liverpool played host to the Tacoma-based punk rock trio Skating Polly, who brought their high-energy show back to Liverpool, UK.
But first, we also saw two support bands: Steel & The Empty Page. The night kicked off with Steel, a promising band from Liverpool that’s already catching attention. Drawing comparisons to bands like Dry Cleaning and English Teacher, Steel demonstrated impressive stage presence and a sound that, despite their early career stage, felt polished and promising. They’re certainly a group to watch as they continue to evolve
The Manchester-based punk-rock band The Empty Page also played a very energetic and solid set. Their last album, “Imploding”, is really good, so if you’re not familiar with the band, please do check it out, and I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. After both performances by the supporting bands, Skating Polly took to the stage, ready to unleash their unique blend of grunge, punk, and pop sensibilities.
Lead vocalist and guitarist Kelli Mayo’s powerful vocals soared above the din of the crowd. Skating Polly’s music is often described as “riot grrrl-inspired,” and it’s easy to see why. The band’s lyrics are a powerful exploration of themes such as feminism, relationships, and social justice, delivered with a raw intensity that is both cathartic and empowering.
The band expertly wove together their most popular tracks, such as “Camelot” and “Hail Mary,” with newer material from their latest album Chaos County Line, like “Hickney King,” “Rabbit Food,” and “Tiger at the Drugstore.” The first attempt at playing their new material on the piano had to be stopped due to faulty equipment. Thankfully, the second attempt was finished with success, and towards the end of the set, we heard more songs from their new album!
The crowd was entranced by the band’s infectious energy throughout the set. The band proved yet again how good they are live, and how good Kelly Mayo’s voice is. Band members, as always, rotated on numerous occasions and switched instruments, so we’ve seen Kelli playing bass guitar and piano, Kurtis Mayo took the guitar, while Peyton Bighorse sat behind the drum set.
What amazing musicians they are, and it was a pleasure to see the band again in Liverpool – they never disappoint. I am already looking forward to their return!
SKATING POLLY
Photos + Review by Tomas Adam | Exclusively for Music, Why Not!