November evenings are some of the dreariest of the year, but the evening of Friday 8 November was certainly not one of those – the termly RockSoc concert had arrived! The event began with provision of ear protection that was enthusiastically cast away into pockets by most then put in ears. When all attendees were admitted, the host signalled for silence, a silence soon broken by the thunderous guitar tone of the Arctic Monkeys’ R U Mine?
Ten songs in total were played by four of Eton’s finest rock bands, ranging from a rendition of Live Forever that rivalled even the Gallagher brothers themselves, to a more soothing performance of Toploader’s Dancing in the Moonlight. With the screaming approval of alternative rock and Dave Grohl fans, Nirvana’s Come As You Are and the Foo Fighters’ Monkey Wrench were played. The former’s iconic opening riff, while not difficult on a technical level, stunned everyone with the evident passion and love the band treated it with.
Whether the audience were jumping up and down, swaying their arms (with an impressive synchronicity), or simply observing from the sidelines, it was clear that everyone was thoroughly enjoying the diverse selection.
However, there was even more to be enjoyed than just music: the lighting! Each band was lit up in constantly changing, vibrant colours that captured the emotional power of each song and amplified it for the audience.
Sadly, it had to end, but the final act did not disappoint. The Annex came onto stage to perform just one song: The Proclaimers’ I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles). They passed the microphone from band to audience, audience to band, lyrics flying everywhere. While the crowd’s vocals needed some work, the vocalists of The Annex showed a clear mastery of the song’s iconic folk-rock style.
As the last note faded out, cries for an encore could only be met with sad glances towards the clock. Everyone left with their ears ringing, but also with a deeper appreciation for the skill of Eton’s rock bands and the creative talent of rock legends of the past.
