THEY have never shied away from making their voices heard -- frontman Itch recently guest editored The Big Issue -- and the band managed to bring their passion to the Rescue Rooms.

From the anthemic opener of Let's Hang The Landlord to the heartfelt I Got Love, the raw DIY approach and unique British lyrical style won the hearts of the throng.

With fiery speeches in between songs preaching love and unity, their dedication was apparent.

As well as old favourites such as Mr Music Man, the band peppered the crowd with an excitable cover of Dizzee Rascal hit Bonkers.

However, the highlight was Itch's poetry on What If Punk Never Happened, an excellent dedication to the punk movement and a life-affirming encore.

Despite playing a mere one hour set, they managed to cram every ounce of soul into each number. Having prospered so much over the last few years, the next time The King Blues come to Nottingham they deserve to be much bigger.

Matthew Smith