Jaws at Heaven

Indie pop Brummie foursome Jaws took the stage at Heaven on Wednesday night, delivering a solid set for their fans.

Coming to prominence in 2012 as part of the emerging B-Town scene (a term which even makes its coiners cringe), Jaws have done quite well quite quickly. More importantly, they have done it with a relaxed effortlessness, as though they don’t really care how famous they do or don’t become, which, ironically, might be the very key to their success.

After about a decade of relative obscurity in the 1990s, the Birmingham music scene has been on the British radar for the past couple of years as a centre of new indie talent. Gone are the days of munching on bat heads, Osbourne style: what is happening in Birmingham now is much less aggressive.

Like their peers Swim Deep and Peace, Jaws offer an interesting blend of sounds. Described as a mixture of indie pop, dream pop, surf pop, synth pop and alternative rock, their music is whimsical and blissed out, with definite hints of the ocean. But it is anchored in a strong rock beat and, especially in its guitar riffs and vocals, has many hints of grunge, which seems much more appropriate for their grey Midlands hometown. 

The set opened with fast-paced 2012 track, Donut, which got everyone bopping. Frontman Connor Schofield is the epitome of shy confidence. He gets on with the show without much chatter, fanfare or “look at me” bravado, but does everything with an inconspicuous competence that urges you to stare.

Next up was the sweetly whimsical Surround You, followed by the more grungy, down-beat Time. The highlight was 2014 track Think Too Much Feel Too Little, the title of which alone is profoundly relevant to the predominantly Gen Y/Millennial fan base. Another hit was Home, which has a bassline so grunge that you feel as though you’ve stepped right back into the 90s.

All in all, Jaws’ set was consistently fan-pleasing. They are ones to watch, not only within the Birmingham scene, but also in the increasingly interconnected global indie landscape.

Erin Bassett
Photos: Zak Macro

For further information about Jaws and future events visit here.

Watch the video for Be Slowly here: