The recent buzz surrounding Carlisle four-piece, The Lucid Dream, whose latest EP, ‘Actualisation’, hooked us from its opening bars, proved irresistible. We headed down to the Green Door Store last night to check them out.

First up was Hanya (previously known as Post-Heather), whose lead singer elevates their shoegaze rock into something special with her swooping, soaring voice and delicate guitar work. With their shifting rhythms, strong melodies and, at times, an almost Western-noir soundtrack sound, the setlist of songs was compelling. Their appearance was a pre-EP release gig. The EP – ‘I Used To Love You, Now I Don’t’ – will be formally launched at a free gig at the Rialto on the 25th. Based on last night’s performance, we recommend you check it out.

Next up were headliners, The Lucid Dream. A psyche rock band, they create a melodic wall of sound that batters their audience into happy submission. Reminiscent of early Vessels, the three guitarists and drummer produce infectious chugging motorik rhythms laid over a bedrock of electronica that, at times, touches on acid techno. The vocalist’s deadpan, yet tuneful, voice works perfectly in conjunction with lead guitarist’s fluid fret work, while the rhythm section drives the music relentlessly on, evoking a sense of near euphoria through the use of repetition and volume. There were rumours going round that The Lucid Dream might return to play next year’s Great Escape. We can only hope that those rumours prove to be true.

Green Door Store, Thursday 22nd November 2018
Words by Paul Stewart