We saw New Black Light Machine play at The Pleasure Unit. The New Black Light Machine boys strolled on stage with artful nonchalance. I was reminded of the ‘About’ statement on their MySpace page, ‘We are not here to entertain you: We do not want to, and simply couldn't care less’. Be as that may, New Black Light Machines’ brutal brand of post-punk noise won over a fair few supporters by the end of their act. After the standard annoyance of sound difficulties, the band recovered ground with Light Burns Black, delivering sharp drumbeats, rich and lucid synth sounds and an intense performance from Russell McNally, New Black Light Machine’s lead vocalist. Russell lived up to the punk **** you stance by turning his back on the audience and addressing his tortured lyrics and monotone vocals to the rest of the band. Rather than alienating the audience, the stunt seemed to draw listeners in with its clear, if arrogant, message: ‘This is about the music, not you’. A svelte black-haired lady even strolled up and groped Russell’s derriere – evidently a new convert. Although the outfit was not as tight as it could have been, New Black Light Machine created a dark and involving synth-soaked soundscape with raw bite and an immersing impact. Technical hiccups aside, New Black Light Machine delivered a gig with attitude. -Niki Seth Smith