The Sundials are band that want you to dance. And they have the songs, the musical chops and the swagger to make that happen. Their sound and appearance is undeniably retro, but their performance is fresh and alive. It sure as hell isn’t just window dressing.

Last night at the Lowlife Bar they played a short but very sharp set of Stonesy rockers with a few funkier numbers thrown in for variety. Their originals are well written, catchy and danceable. It’s easy to get caught up in their impeccable vibes and forget that you just had terrible day at the office. The rhythm section captures the groove of the Stones at their loosest but tighten it up a bit. The guitarists lay down a combination of razor-sharp riffs and bluesy and at times melodic solos. Singer Dieter Horvat has a keen ear for melody and a powerful and blues tinged vocal delivery that suits the band’s sound and swagger to a tee. He rarely stands still, often running out off the stage and singing and dancing with the audience – it’s a good way to get some crowd participation happening. He also threw in the odd harmonica solo to mix things up a bit.

The Sundials are a fun band to watch. The 12 string Rickenbacker guitar adds to the late 60s/early 70s vibe, as do the band’s clothing. Their searing cover of the Stones “Bitch” slotted seamlessly into the set. The Sundials musicianship is top notch and they have the songs and intensity to match – and probably have about an albums worth of originals already – I’m very keen to see where they go next. Check them out live if you can, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.