The last time The Maccabees played at Concorde 2 was just prior to the release of their new Wall Of Arms album. On this occasion, the show was in preparation for Leeds and Reading festival appearances.

With two albums fully behind them now, it was easy to distinguish a difference in sound. A sense of ambition came to the forefront; exemplified by the bold use of a three- piece horn section.

The trade-off was the youthful tension generated by older tracks such as X-Ray and Precious Time – both of which sent fingers pointing to the air – even if the guitars were lost at first.

Vocals were lost too, but not in a technical sense. Like many singers recently, Orlando Weeks has an aversion to finishing his words. The desired effect is pretty in context, if possibly at the expense of some soul.

But therein lies a paradox as, while possibly adopted in a bid to sound earnest, the style is beginning to wear thin.

Instrumentally though, The Maccabees put in a solid performance and it’s refreshing to hear them blend darker, more atmospheric textures into their formative influences.

A stronger guitar sound would have topped it – something many indie bands could use.

The Maccabees are no different and may be a guitar hero short of becoming great.

It’s not an urgent criticism though and, providing the technical hitches are ironed out, both Reading and Leeds will have been in for a treat.