Peridots The
The Peridots from; Dublin Active; 1981 – 1982
Style; Electronic
Line up;
Vocals & Keyboards; Pete Hamilton
Guitar & Bass; Stan Erraught
Gavin Friday Vox #4
Overtly avant garde would not describe this amazing duo! The peridots the shock of new wave! Ireland’s first neo post tragic pre realist modern semi futurist dadaist surrealistic descriptive descartes combo. These boys go where no man dares to go, innovation to the hilt! peridots, watch them grow, soon they’ll be too big for you not to notice! peridots are now! Oh yes, one must mention the superb genius style of Stan guitarist with the peridots. peridots, the only true anarchy is peridots anarchy!
Peridots Hot Press Gig Review @ Magnet Bar Dublin
The peridots were headling tonight, but because of the technical difficulties involved in setting up their gear, they played first.
The Peridots are a duo, consisting of Stan Erraught on bass, and Pete Hamilton operating keyboards, synthesisers and the drum machine. You may remember the Modern Heirs, the previous incarnation which included Steve Rapid – the various forms have been in existence for about four years. Stan actually plays a six string guitar, using a pedal that gives the bassy sound.
A Fine Voice & Subtle Bass
They played a long set of seven or eight songs which at times induced yawns. There sound was such that concentration was difficult, and most people allowed themselves to drift in and out of the music. The drum machine sounded weak, but Pete has a fine voice that at times reminds of some of the darker, moodier Joy Division songs. Stan’s bass playing was subtle and intricate; something reminded me of Young Marble Giants.
Boddi’s E.P,
At times the Peridots were boring , but at others showed remarkable touches of class. They have a track on the Boddi’s EP, and presuming it’s reduced to three or four minutes should be a gem. But on stage certainly the Magnet is the least appropriate place to watch them, full of the Weekend People swilling pints and shouting for Ramones covers, but the Peridots tried very hard. Meantime, I’m waiting eagerly for the records.
The Ju Ju Gooks
The Ju Ju Gooks are a four piece consisting of Tom Doyle and Dessie Byrne on guitars, and Dave Hurley on drums, all three of whom played with the Letters, and a bass player whose name I forgot to find out. The large crowd who came obviously remembered the Letters, judging by their reaction to the old numbers, especially the classic “MacDonalds”.
The Dickies
Therein lies the Ju Ju Gooks’ problem however – two years on from the Letters there is no sign of development of progress. Worse still, they don’t have the zap! That made the Letters work. Dessie is agood vocalist, but the fact that he’s playing guitar as well puts him at a disadvantage when you remember the dynamic Spot. Still, the Ju Ju Gooks are fast and fun, and a lot of people had a great night bopping to what someone called the Irish equivalent of The Dickies.
Charlie Haughey Shuffle
Besides the afore mentioned “MacDonalds” and “Demolition Girl”, the highlight of the set was the hilarious “Charlie Haughey Shuffle”, which caused everyone to smile and tap their feet, except the bouncers who frowned on anyone who danced too enthusiastically.
Two very different bands served up a confusing night’s entertainment. I’d like to see both again soon.
Gerard Siggins Hot Press
Recordings
