Gossip, The Bravery and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club

The aptly-named Gossip became household names when Standing in the Way of Control was used for the soundtrack to Skins on Channel 4. It was written by frontwoman Beth Ditto as a response to the US government’s decision to deny gay people the right to marriage, and launched her as a spokeswoman and media darling.
“Nobody in the States was that surprised or shocked by what Bush did, but it made everyone I know feel helpless and cheated,� she said. “I wrote the chorus to try and encourage people not to give up. It’s a scary time for civil rights, but I really believe the only way to survive is to stick together and keep fighting.�
New York rockers The Bravery are quickly making a name for themselves in this country. Initially they were accused of riding on the coat tails of The Killers' success, but an intensive touring schedule and some great writing have shown their true promise.
The excellent Black Rebel Motorcycle Club will be gracing the Academy following the release of their critically acclaimed fourth album Baby 81.
Fresh from their biggest headline tour to date in the US, they have sold out the entire run of West Coast shows. At the Chicago show the venue had a very early curfew, so the band took to the streets with acoustic guitars after the plug was pulled on their set and continued the gig in an alley until the police came and moved them on.
One of their biggest fans is Johnny Depp, who is often seen sporting a BRMC patch on his jacket. Rumours that Captain Jack Sparrow was actually based on Peter Hayes have been dismissed out of hand.
The Gossip play on Monday July 9, The Bravery play on Tuesday July 10, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club play on Wednesday July 11.
For more information see www.myspace.com/gossipband, www.thebravery.com and www.blackrebelmotorcycleclub.com.