Gig Review: The Sherlocks at Rock City

Despite doors opening at 6.30pm, you would struggle to see where Talbot Street  started and ended from around 5.45pm. A parade of people ready to party, a few patiently waiting, some performing a live rendition of No Retreat, no surrender to their hearts content, others doing their last minute make up and sharing final sips of their pre-drinks.

The night began with up-and-coming indie powerhouse The Publics, from Mansfield, who set the tone of the night by showcasing their energetic new track Gaslighter and finishing on festival favourite Karen’s Song which was met with the first mosh pit of the night and an audience of cheers. The second act was The Clause, known for their sixties swagger and eighties groove, the Birmingham band saw the crowd bouncing with their latest song I Don’t Care and of course playing In My Element and Electric.

Then the wait. Despite an empty stage and low lights, the buzz was high, many congregating round the bar sharing stories, celebrating with friends with others sticking to their chosen spots on the dancefloor, ready for the moment that Kiaran Crook, Brandon Crook, Alex Procter and Trent Jackson would take to the stage.

John A Logan once said "Music is the medicine of the mind" and that statement has never felt truer than when at The Sherlocks gig. Stood in the centre of the crowd, one can still feel seen, the music inviting a certain sense of magic that only the Barnsley based quartet possess.

Opening up with anthemic banger People Like Me And You, a transcend track that acted as injection of adrenaline to the already bustling dancefloor. Attempts at crowd surfing were made by a few, whilst a lot of shoulder goers stood tall, even a few people on crutches were busting a few moves. The band boast that power, the sense of belonging, where individuals are nameless to strangers but you’re all having fun, the shared interest of good music and good times, making friends for the night, sometimes for life. Through rowing boats and mosh pits, through teary eyes and head bangs, the sense of community, awe and passion were palpable.

Captivating the crowd through Falling, Don’t let It Out and Was It Really Worth It?, the Sherlocks took us on a musical tour of their unrelenting journey, a testament to the enormity of what the boys have become, reflected in the friendly fervour of their dedicated fanbase. Playing fan favourites such as Magic Man, Live For The Moment and Will You Be There? The Sherlocks shook the stage, sharing a slice of their stardom with everyone. Each song evidence of possibility that saw the spotlight shine on you.

With their gritty guitar-driven melodies, catchy hooks, and anthemic choruses, The Sherlocks have garnered a devoted fanbase through their relentless touring and captivating live performances. Their incendiary stage presence and infectious enthusiasm make each show an unforgettable experience .There is creative freedom woven into each harmony, each lyric from the heart. Whether it's through melancholic introspection, bittersweet melodies, or anthemic crescendos, The Sherlocks create emotional landscapes that resonate with their listeners. Concluding their set with infectious Chasing Shadows saw the crowd participate in their largest, final mosh pit of the night.

We may be living for the weekends, running from the rat race, fighting for our own finish line, but there is always a chance we may find it in the arms of strangers all screaming lyrics to our favourite songs.

The Sherlocks performed at Rock City on 14 October 2023.