Conventionally most music can be fitted into neat categories or genres; but sometimes there are exceptions to this rule, and Brown Torpedo are most definitely an exception. They describe themselves as fitting into many genres including Electro, Performance Poetry, Improv, Psychedelic and R&B. But to try and put their style into words, I would say they are experimental, unconventional and definitely unpredictable.

Brown Torpedo came onto the stage, with one member dressed as a woman in a sparkly vest and long blonde wig and the other member dressed in a Pikachu onesie (this has to be seen to be believed – video below) Sound wise Brown Torpedo use a selection of effect pedals, chaos pads, Korg montrons and drum machines to create a totally unique sound with space age sound effects, big bass and distorted vocals. Brown Torpedo also used some more unusual and improvised instruments including a children’s voice distorting microphone. In some songs the vocals were improvised to fit the sounds being created, and in others a poetry book was recited from. Brown Torpedo are the type of music that is best appreciated live, as their performance and the atmosphere they create is key to the overall enjoyment of the music.

You’re probably thinking that this sounds like an inaudible combination, but the sounds being produced by duo were mesmerising and soon got the crowd going, with one lady showing off her best rave dance moves for us all. The member of Brown Torpedo dressed as Pikachu (Dan Cooper: AKA Puppy Bucket from previous Cheltenham group ‘Puppy Bucket and Donny Choonara) also came down from the stage and rolled around on the floor at one point and then danced with a member of the audience, which was a very surreal experience.

I probably won’t find myself listening to Brown Torpedo on my ipod on the way to work, mainly because their recordings are just not quite the same as the live experience. But I would definitely jump at the chance of seeing Brown Torpedo perform again, a truly unique performance by a truly unique duo.

Here’s a video that shows Brown Torpedo’s opening song at the Frog & Fiddle. Enjoy!