If you're a fan of the swinging sixties and the timeless tunes of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Kinks, The Who, and the Animals, then The Beat Institute are a band that need to be on your radar. Our Faye Stacey had the pleasure of catching their high-energy performance recently, and it was a journey back in time that she didn't want to end…
The Thursday before Christmas was nothing short of magical at The Bodega, where the crowd gathered for a night of live music that kicked off with the electrifying performance by The Public Eye.
If you haven't yet acquainted yourself with this talented quartet, you've been missing out on a musical journey worth taking. The Public Eye are Joey Greener – vocals, guitar, Jonah Radford – lead guitar, Cavan Brady – bass, and Zack Bednall – drums.
These four local young lads are making waves in the music scene, and it's easy to see why. With a background in Music Performance from Confetti, they bring a level of expertise and passion to the stage that captivates audiences from the get-go.
The Public Eye's impressive resume speaks volumes about their dedication and talent. No strangers to Nottingham, they've become a local sensation, having graced the stages of BBC Introducing with Dean Jackson at both YNot and Metronome.
This year alone, their calendar has been jam-packed with standout performances at YNot, Filbrit, Derby Pride, The Eyes Have It, Isle of Wight, and even sharing the stage with the iconic Inspiral Carpets. And let's not forget the countless other gigs that have solidified their reputation as a must-see live act.
From the moment they hit the stage, The Public Eye’s energy was infectious. They delivered a performance that showcased both technical skill and a genuine love for what they do.
The audience was treated to a dynamic setlist including a new un-named song that Joey called Honey, Broken Politicians, Adelaide and finishing with Out of Line.
As the set drew to a close, there was an undeniable sense that The Public Eye is a band on the rise. Their passion for music and the authenticity they bring to the stage make them a standout act in the industry.
If you haven't had the pleasure of experiencing The Public Eye live, make it a priority. These four lads are undoubtedly going places, and catching them at a venue like The Bodega is a chance to witness the magic before they hit the big stages. Keep an eye on The Public Eye – they're a musical journey you won't want to miss.
Formed in 2022, Beat Institute has swiftly become a powerhouse in the world of sixties covers. The current line-up, solidified in January 2023, boasts a cohesion that can only come from a group of seasoned musicians who know their craft inside out.
And speaking of experience, the members bring an impressive history from bands like The Beatroot Beatles, Verbal Warning, Rebel Rebel, and The Lost Boys, underscoring their commitment to the art of performance.
From the first note to the last, Beat Institute delivered a setlist that read like a ‘who's who’ of the sixties' most iconic bands. It was like stepping into the Cavern or the Marquee in the heyday of the sixties, where the pulse of music was felt in every corner of the room.
The chemistry among band members was apparent, and their passion for the music they were playing shone through in every performance. Whether it was the infectious beats of The Beatles or the rebellious spirit of The Rolling Stones, Beat Institute captured the essence of each song with precision and flair.
The crowd were on their feet, dancing and singing along to every familiar tune. It was a testament to the band's ability to connect with their audience and evoke the same excitement that permeated the air during the sixties.
In a world filled with cover bands, Beat Institute stands out as a true gem. If you're looking for a night of nostalgia, energy, and a musical journey through time, catch Beat Institute live - you won't be disappointed.
One final note, not only was tonight a fun pre-Christmas gig, it was also drummer Samuel’s 21st birthday and what a fun way to celebrate!
The Beat Institute performed at The Bodega on 21 December 2023
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