Getdown Services call themselves “Britain’s best band,” and honestly, after last night, I’m not arguing. The Minehead-born, Bristol-based lads turned Camden’s Electric Ballroom into a sweaty, chaotic sermon of sarcasm, funk, and full-throttle weirdness. The kind of gig where you lose a shoe, gain a bruise, and still call it the best night of the year.
Schoolmates from Minehead, a town better known for its Butlins than its bands, Josh and Ben have built something far louder, funnier, and far more subversive. Earlier in the night, the best pals were down in the crowd, clearly enjoying the support band Gans and soaking up the atmosphere. It’s the kind of thing that sums them up perfectly: grounded, genuine, and fuelled by the same energy they give back on stage.
Storming onstage to Status Quo’s “Whatever You Want,” they launched straight into a set that was equal parts chaos and charisma. Dressed like time-warped 80s footy players with the attitude of two blokes who couldn’t care less about fitting in, they tore through tracks like “Head Down for the Conversation,” “Evil on Tap,” and “Crisps.” Each one hit with that trademark Getdown blend of sharp wit, deadpan delivery, and pure danceable defiance.
The crowd roared every word, especially during the brilliantly stupid and irresistibly catchy line, “I’ve got choccy in my pocket!”, shouted back at full volume by hundreds of grinning voices. It’s moments like that where the line between performer and audience completely disappears; everyone’s part of the same sweaty, ridiculous movement.
Their lyrics bite at modern Britain with wit, cynicism, and enough groove to make rebellion feel like a party. Anti-establishment to the core, Getdown Services don’t just play gigs; they lead a sweaty, grinning revolt against the ordinary.
Between songs came the usual banter. Irreverent, funny, and just the right side of confrontational. At one point, they took a swipe at London, earning a few playful boos from the Camden crowd. Classic Getdown Services, poke the bear, crack a grin, then drop another tune that makes everyone lose it all over again.With more UK and European dates lined up and a fanbase that’s growing faster than they can play shows, it’s clear Getdown Services are only just getting started. Last night in Camden was further proof that they’re not riding the wave; they’re creating it.
