The Prohibition

It has been a while since I have been inspired enough to write a blog post and thank goodness I have been given the urge to write about one of my favourite up and coming bands in the Bath/Bristol area.

I am lucky enough to know the members of The Prohibition well but I assure you, I write this review with no bias towards them; I truly think this band will succeed.

The Prohibition formed around October 2017 and since then, they have played numerous gigs, earning them headline slots at places like Moles and now, The Pig and Fiddle. It has been obvious since the beginning that they owned their craft but being able to watch them develop into professionals has been impelling and last night’s gig showcased just that.

The Pig and Fiddle is perhaps a smaller stage than they are used to and so this time, Sam Showler (bass guitar) did not slather his chest in war paint. Instead, his freshly shaved head bounced from the springs of his neck, completely concentrated on the detailed bass lines that seem to be composed with such ease and played with such dexterity.

Incorporate this with Jesse Roache’s dreamy guitar tones, and you have the basis of an already amazing band. As they played you could see the thought process behind the guitar’s composition and how the delicate use of pedals became a breeding ground for new ideas for the rest of the band. It creates an atmosphere as well as a melody that is so perfectly crafted and executed. On top of that, Jesse had a natural way with smiling at the crowd and flirting with the camera that instantly displayed the ease and joy this music gives him.

Behind these two sat Sam Cother on the drums. Unfortunately, Sam is always hiding, being the drummer, but there is absolutely no doubt in his abilities and showmanship. When I did manage to catch a glimpse, Sam was giving it his all. The many faces of concentration and the heat that radiated from the drum stall gave the band another side to them…an energy that uplifted the entire performance. If it wasn't for Sam’s unique drumming style, The Prohibition would not be the same. He seems to lead the songs in directions that I would not expect, using every part of the kit to create new textures and shifts in the songs. It’s thrilling, inventive and classy.

Meg Jones brings a whole new level of class to The Prohibition with her extraordinary vocals, she writes melodies that I could only wish I had created myself. The dark stories she tells through wistful and metaphorical top lines never fails to amaze me and I can only ready myself for more. In fact, last night we heard a new song. Completed only a few hours before playing live, I was in awe. Not only were the lyrics a beautiful reflection on Meg’s talent, but the introduction of a piano also captured the haunting tale and sent it into the realms of heaven. This is dream rock at its finest.

The Prohibition have become a huge inspiration of mine. They have captured exactly what they need to be a successful band and enhanced that with their own individual talents and creative brains. I hope my enthusiasm encourages you to go to their next gig and keep your eyes peeled, ready for the announcement of a possible EP. I can undoubtedly say you will be impressed. Each song is an ear-worm that will happily nest in your head. Be prepared to be inspired and take beauty from their sorrows. It is powerful music.