2centsPlain Biog

2 cents Plain are an unsigned band with a bit of an Irish connection. Although the lads are maintaining an almost impenetrable air of mystery, I have managed to catch up with Paul Armstrong, who passed a hallowed demo CD into my hands. Paul's 2 Cents Plain buddies are Mike on lead guitar and backing vocals, Lee on drums and guitar and Foxy on bass and backing vocals.

The strange band name comes from the American slang for that universal hangover remedy, consisting of two aspirins (2 Cents) dropped into a glass of water (constituting the Plain). And this name isn't completely arbitrary. The lads do, it seems, enjoy many a good night and are quite accustomed to the morning after. But it's not doing any harm to their music to judge by their five track demo CD.

I was particularly impressed by 'I fell In Love Today' which is simply beautiful, showing off Armstrong's vocal skill perfectly. 'Killing Time' is also pretty impressive, which hints at something of the bands enjoyment of partying, one line 'I used to see one, and now I see three' speaks volumes about the excesses of rock and roll.

These guys may be keeping a low profile, but a band with this much talent won't remain unnoticed for long. A lead vocalist with a grainy, emotive sound, backed up with some fabulous instrumental skill and a passion that is palpable from that very first chord, is a good recipe for securing that first big musical break. 2 cents Plain have all these qualities, plus some stirring lyrics. And they're rather pleasant to look at too.

Lorraine Conway The Irish World