Not to be confused with the hard rock band from Kansas or the southern rock band from Chicago or the rock covers band from Essex or the acoustic covers band from Lancaster, Dead Man’s Hand are a local Brighton band comprised of five guys who have only been performing together for a matter of months. From their performance tonight, we would never have guessed it.

The popularity of the name seems to be matched by a fanbase that has swelled since the band’s first gig at the Green Door Store in December. We notice they already have a loyal group of fans that crowd around the front when they take to the stage. They begin the set with a funky song with catchy lyrics that we know will be in our head for days, the kind that is easy to imagine being a big hit.

The band has two main singers whose vocal styles are different and both unusual in their own way, but combine (sometimes with two other vocalists) to make a fantastic overall sound. They work well together and sound tightly rehearsed. We like the variety in their music, but the set also flows from one song to the next – each differing in style but not contrasting enough to jar.

We’re impressed by the stage presence of all members of the band, they’re fun to watch and look like they’re having a great time. It’s clearly not just the band’s fans that are loving the music; the whole crowd is dancing and enjoying themselves. It’s not the kind of music you can stand still to. Even those ardently against dancing are at least tapping their feet.

Dead Man’s Hand are currently recording their debut EP consisting of a generous 10 tracks, hopefully showcasing their diverse range from heavy riffage to funk and ska influenced grooves. The recording is due out in early April and the band is hosting a launch night to coincide with the release at the Albert. The date is yet to be confirmed but we recommend keeping an eye out for it.

Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar, Friday 21st February 2014
Words and photos by Esme Yules