The Ting Tings

Salford duo, The Ting Tings have found themselves at the top of various ‘ones to watch out for in 2008’ tip lists. Whilst this obviously means generating a lot of hype this can also be a double edge sword as it means people who do turn up to your gigs will be expecting something special. Their sound is catchy, chart friendly indie-pop with much of the music appearing out of the ether via the magic of technology. Various loop machines give them a bigger sound and also give singer Katie White space to pout, clap, strut and yelp her way through their short but punchy 30 minute set.
Their set is full of indie dance floor gems and there are some fine hooks, particularly in the singles ‘That's Not My Name’ and ‘Great D.J’ which gets the arriving crowd toe tapping. The band confess they find it hard to come on first, especially after the party they put on in Manchester the previous night and although their party sound may suit a crowd already warmed by support acts they do a good job of getting the crowd going. It is not hard to imagine the Ting Tings putting on a good party, as the next act ‘Does It Offend You, Yeah’ vouch for, in the interview they talk of their wide range of music tastes and their love of eccentric D.J mixes, it is apparent that they have as much fun off stage as they do on it. On this evidence it seems the ting tings are a name to watch out for in 2008. Their infectious pop songs have rightly generated interest from big names (including Rick Rubin of all people) and on tonight’s showing look set to become regulars on dancefloors everywhere.

Review by Christian Allen