Patricians aren't just the most fun band in all of fair Sheffield, they're also one of the most likely to escape it on their own terms.

They have tunes in abundance, that almost goes without saying, but it's the joyous manner in which they convert 90 per cent of the audience in this bizarre venue to their way of thinking.

The other ten per cent? Forget about them, they're not here for the music despite sitting themselves resolutely down at the table in front of the stage. Yes, that's right, in front of the stage. Haven't really thought this one through, have you West Street Live? More negative points for the tacky rock memorabilia, but that's enough because, after all, this isn't a venue review and it's Patricians we're here to get excited about.

Back in Spring, armed with a four-track EP and bags of enthusiasm, they showed no little potential (“the foetus of a great band”, I gushed) but now we're starting to see them bloom – and how! New tracks 'Pick Up The Pieces', given a title only tonight after singer Bob Saull asked the audience to name it, and forthcoming release 'Lethargy In The UK' are both full of ideas other local bands seem to be lacking at the moment – namely good ones. The former features a glorious dual vocal from Bob and bassist Sarah Barker, while the latter sports not only a pertinent title but also the kind of summertime funk-rock groove that could get polar bears dancing with eskimos. Yep, that good.

But the real highlight tonight is 'Rock & Roll Girls', featuring a Bonham-esque drum solo from Ollie Leach and some particularly sterling work from Doug Needham – quite possibly Sheffield's most underrated guitarist. Say hello to my new favourite band.

Photo by Gary Wolstenholme