Cajun Dance Party, Joiners Arms, Southampton

EVERY now and then, a band comes along that are surrounded in so much hype that going to see them live will result in a disappointing gig that will not meet the expectations.

This certainly was not the case with Cajun Dance Party.

Frontman Danny Blumberg can best be described as Bob Dylan meets Robert Smith with a fresh energy and passion. He sings over clever layers of guitars and keys that are neither monotonous nor dull but constantly change the directions of the tracks and maintain the exciting feel to the set.

Guitarist and chief song writer Robbie Stern has an assurance and swagger that belies his youth. His riffs and chords are reminiscent of early Radiohead and Britpop. Meanwhile, the keys and synths of the constantly smiling Vicky Freund add another dynamic to the already eclectic sound.

Their debut single, The Next Untouchables, seems an apt name for this tune from this band. It is played with such a gusto and energy that is gleefully received across the whole venue that makes you feel that for once, listen to the hype.