The Deltarays

The Deltarays
@ The Social 
Sunday 18th January

Words: Jem Shaw
Visuals: Rajesh Pathak

For any new band, being the first support act on a Sunday night, at any venue, is difficult. 

Being saddled with the task of coaxing a below capacity, weekend-weary crowd into the right mood has to be tough. The moment the 4 piece indie-rock outfit The Deltarays took the stage, however, it was the acts that had to follow to whom my sympathy turned.

Kicking off with 'City Streets' the 'rays somewhat familiar but undeniably catchy and melodic sound set even the stiffest feet tapping, the sorest heads nodding, and the cutest behinds shaking. The front of the stage suddenly possessed a kind of gravity which pulls irresistibly on the bodies of young females, my own leaden legs were suddenly filled with helium and I floated to the middle of the dance floor where I was completely and utterly powerless against the urge to shake it.

To describe the Deltarays' stage manner as 'easy' or 'comfortable' is a huge understatement. They play their instruments perfectly and front man Chris must have been born behind a microphone. With an undeniable presence and ability to work a crowd without even needing to string full sentences together between songs. Anything he said brought another tirade of laughter and cheers from the young female contingent (this could be attributed, in part, to the fact that Chris looks like he could have been genetically engineered or at least surgically enhanced for his role). Indeed, this was one of the most assured performances I've ever seen by an unsigned band.

The boys breezed through eight lovely, gracious melodies, never faltering or even momentarily loosing the crowd's attention, the uplifting 'You still got it' standing out as one which must be destined to be performed on CD-UK at some point in the not too distant future, with a chorus I've either been whistling or singing to myself almost incessantly since the gig. Yes, if I must spell it out - that is exactly what I'm saying - this band will be big.

If the question of originality is raised it must be said that though the sound can't be called new or innovative, I find it impossible to compare them to any one band - The Bluetones, Thrills, 'phonics, Wonderstuff, shades of The Levellers, a hint of REM. Definitely a sniff of American rock in there but its all hard to place. This is simply great songwriting by very competent musicians with a level of restraint keeping them on the right track of simple, accessible, comforting yet punchy tunes, married to plenty of technical ability and on stage professionalism.

Wonderfully refreshing, highly recommended. People, watch this space, 'cause The Deltarays are coming and there's no protective suit that can keep 'em out'. 

Interview with Chris From The Deltarays
The Deltarays Website
Vote for the Deltarays on Radio 1