Patrick Cooper reviews Goat Patrol at The Cock in Bishop’s Stortford
Patrick Cooper, aka The Cat in the Hat, went to see rock-synth covers band Goat Patrol at The Cock in Bishop’s Stortford on Saturday May 25
Saturday night and it’s down Hockerill crossroads for a pub gig. The intriguingly-named Goat Patrol are playing their two-man configuration so they can fit into the bay window space. Scott on keys and harmonies, Andy on lead guitar and vocals. Both sport white Ts featuring goat heads.
From my seat I see them, and Hockerill Street, in the late dusk. St Michael’s spire glows on the hill. A 16th-century view and a 21st-century band.
They open with a rousing I Fought the Law. Appropriate backing comes from a police car, sirens screaming as it runs the reds into London Road.
Andy has a passionate voice and shows it off for a sinister Paint It, Black. Scott puts the keys into Hammond mode while Andy wellies the Weller for Town Called Malice.
An immediately recognisable electronic intro heralds Enola Gay, but Andy retains a cockney snarl that puts an edge on this dreamy tune. He cheers up for Happy Hour and there’s jigging about on the small floor. It’s Chasing Cars, a break and time for a pint and a chat.
The lads have been playing together since 2007. “Goat Patrol?” I ask. “Snow tribute?” Apparently not, they had wanted Patrol and an animal, and Goat had a nice assonance that seemed to fit. They tell me they do have a drummer and bassist, but brought the electronics instead for this gig.
During the second half, friends and family, including their mums, bob about happily, really enjoying Baggy Trousers and One Step Beyond. This kind of pub gig is a direct descendant of old-timey sing-songs down the pub. We thought they’d gone, but they had just evolved. So glad they’re still here.
The Cat was most impressed with Let’s Dance. Now, you don’t get a lot of Bowie on the covers scene. The guys do it well, I loved it.
Wonderwall gets played loads, but it’s right for tonight. Everyone joins in. One more? Hi Ho Silver Lining.
Like I say, traditional sing-song down the boozer.
