NEIL MARCH REVIEWS MARZIHU @ THE LADYWELL TAVERN, LEWISHAM, LONDON SE13 7HS
Lewisham has long been in need of new grassroots venues so it was great to be in one of my local establishments seeing it in use as a music venue for the first time. The reason for this short excursion was an appearance by MARZIHU; the new project of Bedlam Furnaces’ Ian Allison. Described on the MARZIHU Soundcloud page as an ‘… Alt Rock side project’ from Bedlam Furnaces, the live incarnation of MARZIHU involves Ian on guitar (and vocals on one track too) plus a Bass Guitarist and, between them, a laptop and countless pedals that play a significant part in the sonic storm they treat us to.

From the outset, it is clear that this is not your average gig or band. Their otherworldly musical vision blends busy, melodic and intricate guitar and bass parts with spoken word samples and a growing array of synth, electronic and ambient sounds while they also build their harmonic footprint. I am joined by my good friends Ash (Fendahlene) and Kylie and we agree that there are echoes of Public Service Broadcasting and Jeff Wayne in the opener. As the set evolves, we hear Pink Floyd and even a little of Ennio Morricone as well as some psychedelic influences.

When Ian adds his beautiful, crystal clear tenor vocals to their sound, it is genuinely goose-bumping and leaves us wanting more. By this point, they have brought a growing crowd to the front of the stage as their futuristic Post-Rock fills the air and fuels the cool atmosphere at the Ladywell Tavern. Tonight has been a triumph for MARZIHU. Their combined musicianship, creative energy and expert use of a range of effects amount to a refreshingly unique and satisfying experience.