Friday 18th March saw the start of The Program Initiative’s Mercury: Phase One tour and what better place to start than The Joiners in Southampton.

The intimate venue proved perfect for the band who played a mesmerising set. I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many people enthralled.

The Program Initiative were supported by two bands. First on was A Ninja Slob Drew Me , an eclectic duo who completely tore the stage up. Their melodic rhythms combined with distinctive guitar riffs made for an absolutely epic performance.

The Longest Day were next on. Their performance demanded attention with their unique mix of passionate, brooding-yet catchy rock music. Front man Dan Henry and the band gave an enigmatic performance that is sure to put the Dorset boys on the map.

The Program Initiative is anything other than ordinary and after hearing about the band I was in a state of anticipation. Were they going to be as good as I had heard they were? In fact they were better.

The live show incorporated a video made by the band projected on to a screen whilst they played behind it, effectively providing the soundtrack.

Each song told a story, and combined with the media, made the content very subjective. The lack of words encouraged you to create your own interpretation rather than being told what to think.

If you’re sick of being spoon-fed mainstream music than these are the guys to get behind and support.

The Program Initiative shall be releasing their long awaited "Phase 1" album, The Longest Day are promoting their debut album "A State of Indifference” and A Ninja Slob Drew Me shall be releasing the pre-album EP "We Are”.