Image by joedawson via FlickrThe NME Awards Tour arrived in Leeds and we were there to sample the vocals, guitars and bass. I have been excited for this ever since we received tickets from my sister for Christmas. I had previously attended the Brixton Academy show, which was amazing and this year provided an even more intriguing mix of talent which included The Vaccines, Everything Everything, Magnetic Man and Crystal Castles.Arriving on massive hype after finishing third in the BBC's Sound of 2011 poll - The Vaccines started proceedings, playing tracks from their debut album What Did You Expect from the Vaccines? which will be released in March. I wish we had arrived earlier to fully appreciate their set but waiting for people to style their hair is an important ritual. Next were Everything Everything, I have seen them a few times with their show at Abbey Road Debuts making a lasting impression. Not to dismiss this performance but that one was incredible given the setting and acoustics. Magnetic Man aren't really anywhere near where I would be located on the musical horizon but Benga, Skream and Artwork provided an entertaining and experimental set that pounded our bodies with basslines. I have admired the live persona of Alice Glass for a while, and with Crystal Castles headlining I was excited to get a first taste of her energy. Unfortunately her leg was in a cast but that wasn't going to hold her down and arms flailing she still managed to whip up the crowd. They have a great sound but I was disappointed not to witness the complete stage performance. Ah well, there's the festival season approaching for another chance and here's hoping that she will be recovered then...
