The moniker Biatch certainly doesn’t sound like it belongs to a hopeful, cheery, ‘Songs of Praise-esque’ gospel outfit. Instead it has connotations of moody Penneys wearing teenagers with bucket loads of pimples and attitude in equal measure. However that is just what this group is named and I say, why not?
Biatch are clearly making up their own rules and don’t feel the need to call the band The God Squad or something similarly stereotypical. They’re certainly an unusual bunch and seem refreshingly unconcerned with being cool and pretentious, with the obvious love for what they do leaping through their songs, be they originals or covers. The band is made up of Caroline Kiernan, Brian Roche, Dave McGuinness and Shelley Bukspan who interestingly describe their sound as ‘Cats with vibrato’. I’ve never heard that particular sound myself but I’ll take their word for it. Although I readily admit that gospel tunes aren’t usually my cup of tea as a rule, there’s something sweet and comforting about Biatch’s sound which is a welcome balm to the de rigueur moody mouthed skinny jean clad brigade that are knocking about at the moment. Their sound is almost nostalgic and harks back to a more innocent time, reminding me of 1950’s American gospel choirs.
If you’ve seen those films where everyone in the church goes mental and sings their heads off and always felt that you’d love to join in then leave your cynicism at home with your Smiths albums and give Biatch a go. Keep an eye on their MySpace page for upcoming gigs and to check out some tunes. So whether you’re religious or not try extending those arms and enjoy some wholesome praisin’!