December saw the launch of Love Music, Hate Racism, a campaign organised by People Before Profit in South East Dublin. Taking its inspiration from the eponymous campaign by the Anti-Nazi League and Unite Against Fascism in London, Love Music, Hate Racism aims to build a music network to highlight and oppose the growth of racist attitudes as the economic situation becomes harder for ordinary working people.
The initial gig was held in Madison’s Bar, Rathmines on 5 December and proved a great success. A large crowd, including representatives from the Immigrant Council, local ethnic communities and activist groups were treated to a night of music and anti-racism which featured five live acts.
First to the stage were Radical Picnic, a hotly anticipated debut act combining a radical political message with an edgy sound: an audio-visual blast to start the evening. A Capoeira performance – an energetic combination of martial arts moves and the throwing of some athletic shapes – was performed by Brazilian and Irish dancers and certainly caught the eye. Next, an acoustic set was performed by frontman Billy of The Dead Flags, a Monaghan band breaking into the big time; Billy delivered some catchy tunes that had both gusto and vocal power. Snowdial followed: Eamon and Cathy (minus drummer Paul) belt out indie music you can dance to, and didn’t disappoint with lush lyrics and melodies that possess all the beauty, wince and passion of a love affair. The evening was rounded off by the polished but uncompromising sound of Aortal, a band with a big following offering punky, spirited and well constructed tunes.
Thanks to all the bands and people who supported a great evening.
