The Underworld Camden – 20 Nov 2021
Jubilant release party show for DIY punks Wonk Unit
With their decidedly idiosyncratic, left field approach Wonk Unit are a band that I have been meaning to see live for a long time. As one of the mainstays of the UK DIY scene they have steadily built up a devoted, and if this gig was anything to go by, overwhelmingly friendly following. The venue was The Underworld in Camden, which was bustling but not rammed. There was room to move around with a drink and the crowd was an excitable but respectful one.
This was the London leg of their tour in support of the recently released Uncle Daddy album. Put together over the last often highly tempestuous eighteen months it captures the full gamut of emotions that have been stirred up by such unpredictable times. Fortunately within all the more negative stirrings there is an undercurrent of joy and, whisper it, hope. Gigs have been up and running more or less as normal for a few months now, at least in England. Though there were temperature checks in operation at the door. There is still a feeling of relief that feels palpable between both bands and audience. Potentially I'd had one too many pre-gig beers but there was a jubilant tone to the nights proceedings.
Unfortunately a slight delay in getting to the venue meant that I wasn't able to catch the openers Sid. However the main support came in the form of the highly enjoyable Pizzatramp. The Welsh hardcore outfit present themselves with an air of chaotic dishevelment. However this on stage persona is coupled with a musical edge that is incandescent and tighter than they let on . The drums are consistent and relentless. There was a stand in for their usual bassist but he did exceptionally well. In fact had it not been pointed out by frontman Jimmy that he had learnt the songs only a few days prior I wouldn't have noticed at all.
Pizzatramp barreled through a set which included one of my favourite tracks “My backs fucking fucked”. As a metonym for their approach this song is a fine example. Ostensibly on the cusp of shambolic but actually holding together with a unified core strength. There were a number of dodgy jokes and a good banter with the crowd. All in all it was strong set.
Next up was Wonk Unit who performed a mix of newer tracks with some classics thrown in from their back catalogue. They're a band who have incorporated many different aspects into their sound and there was good demonstration of their unique idiosyncratic take on punk music. From the strange yet captivating song “Horses” to more obviously punk-flecked numbers like “Je'mapelle Alex” and “Christmas in a Crack House.” Other highlights were “Traditional Punk Song”, with its highly chantable refrain of ‘Don't blame me I didn't vote Tory' resonating around the room. They also included the single “Raise My Glass” in which Vez takes on vocal duties, doing a fine job of it too.
In the true spirit of that which is best about the DIY scene Wonk Unit have built up a loyal following and engender a familial and friendly atmosphere. There was moshing and plenty of stage diving but the crowd were all respectful. It was particularly heartening was seeing an older lady crowdsurf. An occurrence that front man Alex ensured went smoothly. The band radiates enthusiasm and the current line up gives off an air of really getting a lot out of playing together. It is a hugely enjoyable dynamic to see coming together on stage.
After the gig the band stayed around chatting to fans, and at least a few members went onto the Black Heart over the road. Alex described the gig ‘as one of the most life affirming' he had ever played and I can understand why he feels that way. For me it was up there as one of the best gigs I've seen this year.