B E X; not for the faint of heart

The type of flawless and engaging performance you would expect to see in the pit at reading or download festival.

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by Leah Parks-Davies

31th of October 2021

photo by Jonny Nolan

Anger embraces Bex. The way she talks to the pub audience of 75 as if they’re protesters out in their 1,000's all fighting for her cause; it is astonishing and is a must see experience.

I spot her, about to walk onto stage playing with the ends of her top, trying not to look out into the crowd, observing her bandmates set up. Taking a big breath, she launches herself into the spotlight and screams the opening line of Tiptoe. Just like a switch, she is possessed by the spotlight.

The rambunctious redhead throws her body around to Humbug, still not missing a beat on her bass or vocals. No fucks given. Her sickeningly sweet lyrics layover everything else, taking their place at the top of the stacks of sound blasting in my face. The second her lungs run out of air they are full again, as if she doesn't have time to breathe; what she's saying is too important for oxygen.

The band's close friends and family surround me at the foot of the stage jumping on the beat to stomp, the final song of the evening. Hypnotised by the crowd's movements I can't help but join in.

The two bassists force me to move with the shear power of the vibrations, as if they are moving the floor. It’s a test to see if I can keep my stance. A test to see if I am the right person for her music.

You can’t just choose Bex, Bex chooses you.