Grand Finale Festival Concorde2 Brighton 24th-25th September

Known for their take on the Jona Lewie classic “You’ll always find me in the kitchen at parties” for the IKEA advert, the band are also known on the London circuit for their ska, grime, indie blend. The band’s brazen lyrics are less self-conscious than some of their musical counterparts, and revel in the realities, perks and calamity of being a young Londoner.

MLM’s live show now incorporates a full brass section and drummer, accentuating the elements of carnivalesque ska and heightening their collective energy. Supporting Johnny’s unique lyrical style, The brass forms a new fuller sound, merging their playful melodies with a powerful back line. With the rise of young British female singers Jessie Ware (also backing for Jack Penate) has also joined them to offer soulful vocals. Jessy is managing to foil Johnny’s antics and effortlessly carve herself a well earned place on stage. Johnny and her now have a presence between them that resonates an essence of playground antics paralleled with an artistic respect for one another’s talents.

This development in the set-up has risen from a new era in songwriting from front man Johnny Langer. The forthcoming album, to be released in May, reveals a more refined method of writing infectious and original British music. Their new approach to composition harbours their recognised style, whilst showing a progression as serious songwriters. For the release of their second album the band has been working with the likes of Clive Langer (Madness) & Charlie Andrews (Micachu & The Shapes, Laurel Collective), Charlie Hugall (Florence and the Machine, Crystal Fighters, Apples) & Niyi. Whilst developing the live sound of Man Like Me’s repertoire the band have also been working hard on their electronic roots and quietly developing a side project with other producers.

2009 and 2010 saw MLM supporting Hot Chip, Lady Sovereign, Zero 7 and Madness. They spent the summer playing stages at festivals including Glastonbury, Big Chill and Bestival.

Now more than ever Man Like Me reflect the melting pot that is the London music scene. They are combining genres and entering into creative collaborations on their new album, cementing their reputation as one of the most exciting and intriguing bands in the UK.

by Mike Best