The Crave hit York on the final date of their current tour in support of their Uber-approved debut long player 'Breaking The Silence' and, with such a cracking album still fresh in my mind, I head in expecting good things.

Obviously, due to it being the final date the band take to the stage dressed in support band Tiger Please t-shirts and if they are disappointed by the poor turnout (40ish at a guess) then it does not show. Beckoning the crowd toward the stage as they launch into the set, vocalist Ryan Burnett immediately claiming his place, a good frontman who is animated throughout, as are the rest of the band, guitarist Carlos Garcia, bassist Tom Swann and dreadlocked drummer CJ Evans, all energetic, give it their all.

The songs are as strong live as on the album, particular fave 'High' is played early, its lush harmonies are spot on, great to see the whole band adding backing vocals. I was interested to see if the songs would sound as good live as with such a crisp production job on the album there was always going to be a risk capturing it live. But the band do not disappoint, if anything in a live setting it gives the songs a bit more of a raw edge that compliments the melodic hooks.

A new song 'Star Tripping' (I think) is played, again instant and catchy and shows more promise for the future. What this band have in abundance are cracking tunes. Radio friendly and anthemic they bring to mind Gun, Def Leppard and even 'Reckless'-era Bryan Adams. Particular highlights are 'Mercenary Man', 'Breaking The Silence' and 'Something Beautiful'.

They finish the set joined on stage by Tiger Please (dressed in The Crave t-shirts and mad Scream masks) for a bizarre run through what sounded like the Mission Impossible theme which was quite dancey and trippy.

The Crave sound fresh, are an energetic live band and, with a very strong set of songs, are destined for bigger things. If they had been around during the heady days of 'Brit Rock' in the 90s you would be seeing them on Top Of The Pops alongside Terrorvision and The Wildhearts. They deserve to be playing bigger crowds than this, but with many festivals and support tours under their belts they are proving themselves on the live circuit and I am sure it is only a matter of time before they get the recognition they deserve. 'Brit Rock' is making a comeback ladies and gentlemen, and The Crave are one of the ones to watch.

 Photo kudos to Dorian Higgins