On a cold and rainy Thursday night, Bad Bug brought warmth to Brudenell Social Club. Despite being first on the bill, the Leeds five-piece commanded the stage as if they were headliners, with frontman Tom Bennett magnetising the early crowd with his seductive and Nick Cave-esque allure.
They’re a band that instantly makes you feel as if you can stare down the barrel of a gun with a smirk on your face. A subtle darkness underpins their tracks, juxtaposed by their shimmering personalities and sparkling stage presence. Their music empowers you to stomp into any situation with the confidence and flair of a bad bad bug.
Guitarist Georgia Murphy dances with her guitar in a way that radiates the pure joy she feels when she plays. Likewise, drummer Rebecca Wren plays with an aura of bliss; she effortlessly guides the impeccable five-piece as they glide through their gritty yet sparkling set. Bassist Immy Lamb and guitarist Liz Mann supply compelling hooks that draw you in and spit you out, leaving you addicted to Bad Bug’s clever and ever-changing rhythms.
Words and images by Meg Firth