IF songs, performance and impact are the true measures of a band's greatness, The Kills have them in abundance.
If arrogance, style and attitude create the chemistry for that "X" factor then The Kills have them in equal measure too.
As the duo -- English guitarist Jamie Hince and American lead singer Alison Mosshart -- release their debut album, they've generated a sense of expectation that most new bands would die for.
Drawing their influences from the Jesus and Mary Chain, Velvet Underground and PJ Harvey, with savage guitar playing and angst-ridden lyrics, they made for captivating viewing.
After a slow start with album opener Superstition, by the time the angry and bitter Cat Claw had kicked in the sell-out crowd were all on side.
The Kills don't do the sort of happy, sunshine music that's likely to put a spring in your step but it certainly makes you feel glad to be alive.
THE KILLS
Manchester Roadhouse
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