We Are Scientists, London Rough Trade East

We Are Scientists

June 16, 2010

To kick off the release of their fifth studio album Barbara, New York indie rockers (or “Brooklyn indie wankers”, as Chris Cain later calls his band) We Are Scientists recently embarked on a short series of in-store performances to sing, tell some jokes, sign some CDs and occasionally dance for their fans.

The Scientists stop by Rough Trade East on London’s Brick Lane on Wednesday to play for a small crowd of fans lucky enough to score wristbands. In fact, by the time the doors open, the queue is already stretching to across the road, while a few hopefuls stand by eager to somehow make their way in without wristbands.

Rough Trade East is a small record store, and a perfect setting to see a band like We Are Scientists. Going to see WAS perform is not just about going to hear some live music. The hilarious dynamic between Keith Murray and Chris Cain flows so easily as they carry out their witty, playful banter. And the recent addition of drummer Andy Burrows (formerly of Razorlight) seems appropriate, as he occasionally joins in the fun.

During their 40-minute set, the band play a large selection of tracks from the latest album, including ‘Nice Guys’, ‘Rules Don’t Stop’ and ‘Pittsburgh’ (during which Burrows joins in on vocals).

Considering the album has only been out for a few days (legally), only some members of the audience are singing along to many of the songs. But when WAS break into older classics ‘Nobody Move, Nobody Gets Hurt’ and ‘After Hours’, every single punter seems to be singing along. This is all interrupted by a short dance interlude, though, which is somehow brought on after a few minutes of joking about working on a track with Bono.

When We Are Scientists perform live, their pure excitement is infectious. During the entire set, Keith Murray has a huge smile on his face, even while singing. It’s impossible to watch them and to not feel happy inside.

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