Flamboyant Bella

To hear the news that Flamboyant Bella are playing at Cabaret Voltaire, you could be forgiven for falling victim to the power of semantics. Images of flashing lights, eccentric showmanship and the general incline towards the carnivalesque should be conjured. ‘Flamboyant’ should hoodwink your mind into submission; you should expect a theatrical spectacle of extreme proportions. Sadly, semantics have failed us.

Following an impressive set from Manchester boys Ten Bears, the indie electro four piece somewhat tentatively took to the stage. An army of young fans stare expectantly, proudly bearing the profane title piece of the band's set emblazoned across their chests: "absolutely wankered." It suddenly all became clear; it is not flamboyancy that they seek, it is controversy, and controversial it was.
I fear that the set suffered the blows of their flamboyantly controversial ways throughout. More than once lyrics were forgotten, and the potentially charming faults of a live set were somewhat removed by an overwhelming desire to see them succeed. The playful interaction between band members made for a relatively charming attribute to their stage presence, it seems however doubtful that charming was their intention.

Vocally, the set was impressive throughout. The vocals of singer/guitarist Flo Kirton were perhaps one of the high points of the evening. As individuals in fact, the band had incredible talent. Notes never faltered, rhythm was never lost, and keys were never off. I felt myself however slightly disappointed, I came for a show, and I felt like I was in a sound check.

As the set droned through to its inevitable conclusion, I began to question whether Flamboyant Bella was something in the way of a sarcastic remark. Little to no energy punctuated a distinctly average set, whilst the already small crowd tried hard to muster an atmosphere, but never fully succeeded. The words of lead singer Johnny McBreen perhaps sum up the aim of their show: "Sorry it was a bit odd, but I hope you enjoyed it." Here’s hoping, Johnny.