The Slaks bar in Cheltenham town centre on friday night was the unassuming venue with a special firey charm. This charm was the product of a serene line up of local musicians; including Men Diamler, Charlie Baxter and atmospheric indie band Midnight Mile, who all projected a big attitude, despite their small numbers. As the weary public escaped from the cold and gathered in the warmth of the side street setting, Men Diamler took to the stage with his delicately melancholic yet inspiring lilt of acoustic folk. Men Diamler drew the crowd in with an intimate performance, before returning to his usual form by stomping and jumping amongst the collective, making them part of the music. Following this intense immersion, Charlie Baxter added more sparks to the drawing fire with his diy electropop; proving that one man can generate a huge attitude. Burning through his set of part Soulwax, part Calvin Harris, part Metronomy electronica, Baxter's finest moments being short irratic bursts of blippy trance fused with grungy guitar. Definitely one to watch! The shimmering heat of the night concluded with a more chilled effort from Midnight Mile, offering a Fields-esque glimmer to the proceedings with their twin harmonies and driving acoustic melodies. As the night drew to a close, and the fire extinguished, the crowd went home glowing from the warming determination of musicians who try their upmost to make their voices and emotions heard. So head to Friday night gigs at Slaks; wheres theres a light that never goes out!
Ben Hawling
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