The music room at Monkey Chews is like someone's living room and it is obvious that this was part of the landlord's residency at some point! Once upon a time a (un)wise person once said I know, lets knock down a wall, stick in a bar and some speakers in and call it a music venue. Sadly they omitted the facts that adequate ventilation and most importantly a sound man should be provided! However after putting these obstacles to one side this turned out to be one of the best nights of the year to date on the indie pop circuit!

Tonight The Cut-Outs are missing organ player Marisa. I for one have not been all that endeared to the bands 1960's cartoon pop sound but they have slowly grown on me for the sheer fact that they seem to be on the bill at every gig I seem to go to at present. Minus the organ and in such close surroundings (I was standing right next to guitar player Sean) I finally appreciate how lovingly crafted, well written and catchy their songs are, none more so than the excellent Leave Her Alone.

Sadly the sound problems affected Cooties Attack. One of the microphones had stopped working meaning the girl/boy songs were left out and then the drum machine had to go because of feedback problems. However that did not prevent me enjoying their set of charming, fun packed songs which they played with smiles on their faces. They sounded a bit like BiS being fronted by Helen Love and as they are soon relocating to London I am sure it will not be too long before I see them with all their working parts in order!!!

Strawberry Story recently reformed for a charity gig back in June and it went so well they decided to play a few more dates. Tonight is the first of those dates and it was clear to see that a few people of a certain age, myself included, had come to see them now they are out of retirement. The band were humbled by the reaction and that was clear to see. Whilst their children and friends handed out free CD's and Strawberry Story knickers (!) to those who danced or begged they delivered the musical goods.

Hayley's voice has not been troubled one iota by the intervening years and she passed the test that was Ashlands Road with flying colours. We were even treated a new song. The fuzzy numbers came thick and fast towards the end and they soon ran out of songs but still managed an encore. Wonderful nostalgic stuff and long may the comeback continue.

I was surprised by Bunnygrunt. I have heard a few tracks without claiming to be a fan and I was surprised how good (and loud) they were. I always thought they were twee-er than that. Their frantic guitar based songs are short to say the least. Not one seemed to last more than a couple of minutes and they came thick and fast. The band also promoted their brand new tour EP from Wee Pop which arrived that day playing two songs from that release - I am sure a few copies of those were shifted during and after the gig. They finished with a damn fine cover of Status Quo's Mean Mean Girl and exited stage left with other Quo recommendations from the audience - all polite I hasten to add!

I couldn't think of a better way to spend a Friday night - even the venue grew on me towards the end. Superb.