Gig Review: No Joy @ The Social, Oxford Circus, London

Not knowing what to expect is what gives the two piece group 'No Joy' guitarist/vocalist Jasmine White-Glutz and Laura Lloyd a distinctive edge.

Without any introduction they emerged onto the stage armed with guitars and masses of long blond hair, accompanied by a bassist and drummer. As they began to sing, their usual inaudible vocals turned into a whisper due to the poor sound quality. This was not helped by the drummer’s decision to use sticks, suited more for a larger venue unlike The Social, where the choice of rods would have been much more appropriate. As a result of this, the sound became a little deafening at times; however No Joy were not discouraged, putting on a head-banging performance amongst a wash of delay.

Technically No Joy are spot on. With electrifying riffs and decent pedalboard work they steadily kept the attention of the audience, introducing those unfamiliar with their music.

Shrouded by an air of anonymity and without any crowd interaction, it felt like they were in their own little world, Hawaii their first single released from the album ‘Ghost Blonde’ was immediately the most recognisable track from their set and instantly seemed to be a hit amongst the curious crowd. 

As their set ended to a round of applause both Jasmine White-Glutz and Laura Lloyd seemed a little distracted, totally oblivious to their surroundings and the effect they had on their audience.