Republic of Safety

Undeterred by the competing nation-building exercise of the Blow, the newfangled Republic ground their way gradually into the hearts and minds of new adherents. Though the band’s usual fiery passion was initially reserved, musically they were wound up good and tight, and it took only an impromptu punk rock call-to-arms to bring the colour to front-woman Maggie Macdonald’s cheeks (and audience members to the stage). Passers-by noticing the frenzied masses screaming "I Like! To Fuck!” shot only quizzical looks, now reconciled to the brave new world of Hillside. HZS