Camden Rocks 2016: The Cribs, Carl Barat and Young Guns fire up the evening bill

Camden Rocks has returned this June with its fifth yearly helping of more beer, head-banging and rock and roll than you can shake a guitar at. Packing in over two hundred bands across twenty of Camden’s coolest and most prestigious gig venues, this event marks the start of London’s summer festival season so our writers Helen and Michelle rocked up to check it out.

Victoria at Be at One

An exciting upcoming band to watch this year, Victoria is a young five piece with their roots placed firmly in London. Playing the small but cool Be at One on the high street the band fill the bar with their intense but catchy tunes and strong lead vocals.

Colt 45 at the Forge

Rocking the Forge with all the aggression that their name would require, Colt 45 played an energetic set to a small but enthusiastic following. With force behind their lyrics and an impressive drum backing they didn’t disappoint.

Zebrahead at Underworld

Pikachus, pink bunnies and bouncing inflatable balls: classic Zebrahead. Bursting off the small stage in the back corner of Underworld, the Californian punk rap group’s energy spread contagiously through the venue with not a single person left able to stand still.

Carl Barat and the Jackals

Former frontman of The Libertines and Dirty Pretty Things, Carl Barat takes to the stage at the Electric Ballroom to perform to a packed room of excited fans. Accompanied with his band the Jackals, Barat delivers an upbeat and lyrically strong punk indie set. The energy and passion with which they perform backs up Barat’s earlier statement that he particularly enjoys playing Camden stages.

Yuck at Barfly

Yuck is a band that oozes cool and squeezed into the upstairs room of Barfly they exude a raw mellowness that delights their audience. Their alternative sound, often likened to Sonic Youth and Dinosaur Jr, is complimented perfectly by the intimate venue.

Falling Knives at the Hawley Arms

At the Hawley Arms, a venue known for its cult status thanks to its association with Amy Winehouse, the powerful sound of Falling Knives is disappointingly wasted on a not-so-full room. Undeterred, the band carry on rocking right through their set with an impressive energy from start to finish.

The Cribs at the Electric Ballroom

A highlight of Camden Rocks, The Cribs own their headline spot at the Electric Ballroom with impact and attitude. Their first London gig since they played Camden’s Roundhouse in October of last year, the set is crisp and fun with a sophisticated feel but no lack of punchy riffs and mosh pit opportunities.

Young Guns at Dingwalls

Just as the day is starting to wind down and bands can be seen packing their gear into vans on the streets, Young Guns explode onto the stage at Dingwalls and instantly bring the party back to life. The alternative rock band’s fans are out in force and the atmosphere is electric as the charismatic group belt out both old and new tunes. Perfect preparation for the Camden Rocks after party!

Michelle Keepence
Photos: Erol Birsen

For further information about Camden Rocks 2016 visit here.