Expensive Pencil-Sharper Than Ever!

Not so much a blast from the past, more a vision of the future.

The innovation of the Pencils is staggering! In this age of teeny bop pop and corporate megalomusicians it is both a surprise and a delight that even twenty five years on, Expensive Pencil are still leading the way. The Sheffield Arena double booking fiasco, allegedly fuelled by an old rift between Pencils front man Rocky Flame and high waisted music mogul Simon Carrow, meant that the recent gig had to be transferred to a random Bradford location. The Pencil's decision to step aside despite their obvious seniority in the music industry only serves as further testament to their ultimate professionalism and modesty.

Playing to a packed house, a quick scan of the audience revealed the eclectic appeal of this wonder group across all ages, genders and creeds…and they really Rocked! Billed as a 'Technicolor Collage' the band opened the second act with their latest creation 'Seventh Heaven' to an awed silence. Such was the impact of Damien's sepia riff, one well respected music connoisseur on the front row was heard to exclaim "Oh my God!" before blanching in what can only be described as reverence.

With their amps firmly fixed on eleven, the volume was only matched by the cheering of the crowd and Damien's bouffant hair. The tranquil calm of the middle eight providing a perfect counterpoint to the power of the main body of the track.

Resplendent in their traditional stage attire, Dougie in chain mail, Joe cloaked and hooded, the band reminded this reporter of the public school where Rocky Flame spent his formative years. And how proud they must be, for Chelmsford's favourite son just keeps going from strength to strength! The rumours of ritual cannibalism now firmly behind him, Rocky sang as never before! In tune and with surprisingly few mistakes and when the cacofanistic climax was reached, this reporter was left feeling drained but extremely satisfied.

The emotional roller coaster continues on into its 26th year and despite the inevitable peaks and troughs it's still got a few thrills to dish out to an ever-increasing fan base.

There's still lead in the Pencil!

Coming to a working men's club or scout hut near you soon!

Report by: Percy Pretsel-Shirt