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Meursault and Happy Particles - Glasgow Science Centre, Sun 9 Oct 2011

Science meets creativity for a night beneath the stars
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Meursault and Happy Particles - Glasgow Science Centre, Sun 9 Oct 2011

Science meets creativity for a night beneath the stars

Ever the fan of showcasing musical talent in the most unusual of circumstances, Detour teamed up with Glasgow Science Centre (GSC) for two shows during their Capture Space weekend. Held in the planetarium inside the centre, Detour selected two bands per night to provide the sonic ambience – Remember Remember and Miaoux Miaoux on Saturday (criteria: be so good they named you twice) and Happy Particles and Meursault on the Sunday.

The show opens with some tips for star-gazing and explanation for those unfamiliar with the ins and outs of the galaxy from GSC staff. Happy Particles then careen through an atmospheric set, alternating between scuzzy Pavement-style solos and more delicate, rippling parts. The reverb-slathered vocals recall My Morning Jacket, accompanied by keys and saxophone with melody always at the forefront. Despite a lack of much between song banter, this music in undeniably fitting underneath the swirling skyscape.

Meursault, fresh from a European tour, seem to have adapted their sound of late. Gone are the laptops and hefty beats, to be replaced by a more laidback, more obviously folk approach. Neil Pennycook’s incredibly individual voice is prominent as ever, tonight accompanied by lush piano and a handful of guitars, with new material as well as tracks from All Creatures Will Make Merry played before the silent, sold-out audience.

The success of tonight’s gig could not come at a more poignant time, with the announcement that BBC Introducing in Scotland - the Radio 1 show fronted by Ally McCrae of Detour - may be scrapped in the next round of BBC revamps and replaced with one UK-wide show. Have your say via the petition to keep the show and the BBC consultation, which is online until December.

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