Tinyfish @ Cambridge Rock Festival

As Tinyfish took to the CRS stage this sunny Saturday afternoon in August, I knew we were in for a treat. This progressive rock band from South London has built up a small school of dedicated followers since the release of their self entitled debut album in 2006.

It is easy to understand why people was called into the tent during the 90 minute set by Simon Godfrey’s distinct voice and Jim Sander’s effortless mastery of his Gibson Les Paul guitar. The rhythm section of the world’s smallest prog band consists of Paul Worwood on bass and Leon Camfield behind the drums.

Often this backbone of a band does not get the credit it deserves, this is not the case when it comes to Tinyfish. Leon’s frenetic drumming and Paul’s driving bass-lines on songs like The Sarcasm Never Stops and Cinnamon makes you stomp your feet.

What sets Tinyfish apart from other progressive rock bands is the inclusion of spoken word in their performances. These are performed by the band’s chief audience frightener, Robert Ramsay.

Rob is not just another pretty face, alongside Simon he is responsible for most of the lyrics. You know you are in the presence of good songwriting when the songs are inspired by such diverse topics as Bill Hicks, antipathy towards motor cars and magick.

As usual Tinyfish won over the audience with their great songs and humorous banter. They have always been a fan’s band and I am sure that their fan base will have increased as a result of this performance.

If you missed this gig, you will still be able to enjoy Tinyfish live. The band has just released a live DVD, which is available through the bands website.