Rating: 4/5

With Zane Lowe paying a visit to Sheffield University Union's Octagon, JD Roots decided to get involved in a celebration of local talent.

With a line-up boasting sets by JD Roots winners Young Peculiar, and celebrated local rockers Dead Sons and Drenge, it is clear that the Octagon is set to explode in a cacophony of sound to celebrate Bank Holiday Monday.



As upcoming troupe, and The Yorkshire Times EP of 2012 winners, Young Peculiar unveil their new line-up (which still consists of vocalist Bernadette Dales, Michael Hukins, Chris Boswell and Martin Bullock, but with Joseph Ibbett added to the line-up) with a confident set.

With the audience enticed by vocalist Bernadette's undeniable charm and sensational vocal, each band member is given a moment to shine.



While their now signature cover of 'Maneater' works the audience into a singalong frenzy, it is the irrepressible 'Chemical Comedienne' and new song 'Who You Are' (which is to be found on 'JD ROOTS: STRONGROOM 2013' EP) that really stand out.

Having first surfaced for Tramlines 2010, Dead Sons have become something a local legend. With their heavy sound and dazzling light show, Dead Sons are masters of their craft. While their explosion of sound may not have captured immediately everyone's imagination, their set is enticingly addictive and as the sounds brew, the band's audience swells through its journey. With a sheer ferocity, Dead Sons set is a thrilling ride.

With their minimalist setup far from restricting their sonic output, brothers Eoin an Rory Loveless ensure that Drenge's set is immediately compelling. As they blast out an array of thrilling chants, Drenge set heart beats pounding. With a focussed energy, Drenge are an act that are set to define the British two piece. While there are echoes of many great partnerships - notably White Stripes as the set kicks off, growing into The Black Keys as the set continues. A dynamic duo, Drenge are an exciting proposition.

Having suitably warmed the audience into a frenzy, the bands make way for the DJs and the party explodes.