Panamanian Divorce

Yesterday, I saw one of the last gigs by the Panama Kings. I've watched them maybe a dozen times since my introduction to the gang in November 2007 and on many occasions they have been exciting and funny and bold. They've put out a series of great tunes and I was moved to write a cover story about them for AU magazine.

They got to follow up on some of that potential, with a 26 date tour supporting Ash and some useful experiences in England. But they also arrived at a time when the music industry is panicked and cautious, and some of the expected breaks weren't forthcoming.

So my heart was a bit sore when they played the Volume Control birthday party. Bass player Luke was absent (but will return for the final show at Radar, QUB, November 4). They resumed many of the big songs, and the more techno-minded aspect of their evolution was fiercely met. I'm personally sad that there's no album to document the legacy, and no chance to see 'On My Side' realise its destiny as one of the billowing NI anthems. Sigh.