Allah-lahs, Cedar St Courtyard, Austin Tx, Thursday 14 March 2013

Songs we had already heard suggested that The Allah-lahs are fond of 1960s Californian pop. As they walked on the stage, the band's image added to this impression.

The set was thoroughly enjoyable, with some beautiful '60s harmonies and up tempo melodies reminiscent of the Box Tops. They may even sound more like the Monkees or bands replicating 60s sounds like the Stairs or The Wonders (in That Thing You Do) than any particular 60s band, though that is no bad thing.,

Crafting what could be a collection of lost classics, this band wears its influences on its sleeve, so it would be interesting to hear how their future material takes on this accomplished sound and whether it evolves it to add more of their own voice.

They played a couple of instrumental numbers, one of which sounded a lot like a Hotel California and Sultans of Swing mash-up, and the drummer and lead singer swapped roles for the last song, which added interest.

It was a fun and lively show. The band seemed pleased to be there and to enjoy playing for us, which isn't a given at SXSW, but is always appreciated.

Other SXSW reviews from Broken Biscuit Records:
My Jerusalem, Maggie Mae's
Dawes, Stages on Sixth
Tom Odell, Haven
Lord Huron, Mohawk
Thao and the Get Down Stay Down, Stages on Sixth
Jake Bugg, Radio Day Stage