Review: Molotov Jukebox, The Fleece

Molotov Jukebox are a rare sort of band that have the unique power of turning each and every one of their live shows into a full-on floor-filling party and it’s safe to say that their show at the Fleece was never going to be the exception.

The bands become a favourite in Bristol’s tightly packed gig schedule and they frequently sell out shows in the city, enticing audiences with their intoxicating mix of reggae, gypsy dance and funk wrapped together with catchy pop hooks. This year they come to Bristol in celebration of the ten year anniversary of the band’s formation and there’s no better place to be.

Singer and accordion player Natalia Tena (better known for her acting roles in Game of Thrones and Harry Potter) kicks off the show in a way that can only be followed by Molotov Jukebox as she announces, “If you’re not here to dance, drink, buy us a drink or get laid then you can fuck off.” It’s clear that nobody is starting to move for the door.

The band launch straight into it and drag up old classic, I Need It. While the crowd almost immediately take to dancing it’s clear that something is quite working as expected as Nat and singer/violinist Sam Apley share concerned looks as he runs around her frantically. Unfortunately, it’s a problem with a vital ingredient for the band, the accordion, and they laugh while saying “this could be the most interesting gig we’ve ever played.”

Not one to keep a crowd waiting the band launch into the, fortunately, accordion light track, Leave Your Light On as Sam shuffles to the side to rustle up some magic. By the time the song draws to a close Nat has her instrument around her neck again and with much delight they announce the first prize of the evening.

Prizes at a Molotov Jukebox gig can be won for a number of reasons such as, having a great ratio between smiling and dancing, for coming all the way from Toronto or just being sexy, but this time the prize goes to a gentleman who happened to have some handy knowledge about putting wind instruments back together.

Over the course of the evening, the band cover the highlights from both of their albums and the plethora of singles from their decade-long career. First albums Balkan based swing slides in comfortably with the sophomores tropical vibes and there isn’t a still body in the house – hen parties are dancing alongside a guys night out while a couple of children bang their feet on top of the bar.

Closing out the set are firm favourites Neon Lights and Gypsy Funeral, the latter a tour-de-force of a live song that rams the dancefloor with flailing bodies of gradually increasing intensity until everyone is left sweaty and exhausted. Earlier in the evening, Nat asked the crowd how many people were seeing their first Molotov Jukebox show and was answered with a sea of hands – if I had to make a bet I would say that it won’t be their last.