About This Footage
The grainy footage of "There's a Riot going on - Ruby Edge" is a rare gem that offers a glimpse into the pre-Kaiser Chiefs era of Bob Mortimore and his cohorts. Recorded at Alan Warner's Lane Studios in an unknown year, this clip is a significant find for fans of the band and those interested in the indie rock scene of the early 2000s.
At the time of filming, Kaiser Chiefs were still known as Runston Parva, having formed in 1996 under that name. They would go on to release one studio album, "22", in 2003 before renaming themselves Kaiser Chiefs later that year. The band's sound was still evolving, and this footage provides a fascinating insight into their early days.
What makes this clip so notable is its connection to the pre-Kaiser Chiefs era of Bob Mortimore and his bandmates. Ruby Edge, as they were known at the time, consisted of Mortimore on lead vocals and keyboards, Alan Warner on guitar and vocals, Kerry Murray on drums and vocals, and Dave Mansell on guitar and vocals. The chemistry between these musicians is palpable in this footage, even if it's not entirely clear what year it was recorded.
The clip itself is a energetic performance of "There's a Riot going on", with the band members trading vocals and instruments in a way that foreshadows the Kaiser Chiefs' signature sound. The song's title would later become synonymous with the band's breakthrough single, but here it's just another track in their nascent discography.
For fans of Kaiser Chiefs, this clip is a must-watch for its historical significance alone. It offers a unique glimpse into the band's early days and provides context for their eventual success. For those new to the band, this footage serves as an introduction to their sound and style, which was still in development at the time.
One thing that stands out about this clip is its raw energy. The band members are clearly passionate about their music, and it shows in every note they play. Even if the production values are low, the performance itself is infectious, making "There's a Riot going on - Ruby Edge" a compelling watch for anyone interested in indie rock.
In watching this clip, viewers will get a sense of the band's early days and how their sound evolved over time. They'll see the seeds of Kaiser Chiefs' signature style being sown, even if it's not yet fully formed. And they'll be reminded that even the most successful bands have humble beginnings, often marked by rough-around-the-edges performances like this one.
The footage itself is a testament to the band's dedication to their craft and their willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles. Even in its rough form, "There's a Riot going on - Ruby Edge" is a compelling listen that showcases the band's chemistry and energy. As such, it's a valuable addition to any fan's collection of Kaiser Chiefs memorabilia.
Ultimately, this clip serves as a reminder that even the most successful bands have their roots in humble beginnings. It's a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create something new and exciting. And for fans of Kaiser Chiefs, it's a must-watch for its historical significance alone.
Curated from public records and music databases.