Cash+David at Birthdays

Londoners by nature, electro-pop duo Cash+David took to the stage at Birthdays last night with the confidence of political tyrants, yet the energy and heart of two musical soulmates with assured city swagger.

Two of the band’s older tracks, Pulse and Funn, have amassed passionate fans for the twosome. Considering that finding one’s way through Dalston’s musical sprawl is no easy feat, the live act, who admitted this was their first gig together, almost effortlessly delivered what could have been an established set to a full house – including a performance of new single Bones.

When asked in an interview to describe their musical style, Cash+David said: “Singing Like a Virgin in a desert karaoke booth, with Sleigh Bells on percussion and M83 on guitars.” Their performance fits this description fairly accurately, but with the additional presence of strong, repetitive guitar riffs played by Tim Ross, aka Cash (after the great Johnny, of course).  

The other half of the collaboration – Liz Lawrence by birth and David by night (Bowie is an idol) – continuously and relentlessly delivered lyrics anchored in the experience of love and heartbreak. Having performed guest vocals for Bombay Bicycle Club, David knows how to manipulate her voice; her vulnerability is in perfect balance with Cash’s consistent guitar input.

Funn, the fourth track in their short but sweet set, featured achingly heavy singing, contrasting with the high notes of the xylophone. Cash+David were layered and full on this song, their melodies seeming to wrap around the heavy bass lines – the perfect bait for drum and bass remix versions. 

Conviction in every note and precision in every line, If I Told You opened with thick drums in the intro, leveling off to reveal a European electro-inspired sound. It seems as though the two are focused on where they are headed but refuse to forget their influences and roots.

Cash+David’s big sell is that they are not an electro-pop act that only sounds great on record. Their music was created for live performance and the electro element is in perfect harmony with the instruments they use to great effect. Slow dancers and moshers alike will find the perfect rhythm in this band’s meticulously created sound.

Genevieve Akindele

For further information about Cash+David and future events visit here.

Watch the video for Bones here: