After promise of an appearance from the infamous Pete Doherty - or should I say Peter? - at Southampton’s intimate Joiners to celebrate the venue’s 40th anniversary, the place was packed out with a buzzing crowd, all holding their breath with drunken excitement and anticipation for what the night had in store.

First up were Wave Machines, a funky little Scouse quartet that immediately turned heads with their resonating sound. A mix of synth, indie guitars, soulful lyrics and even the odd clarinet, the guys certainly did make waves - excuse the pun - amongst a tough audience.

These guys were also pretty good at hiding their identity, not only did I have a real struggle finding out a little more about the foursome, but the show itself was done entirely behind the haunting masks worn by Tim Bruzon and Co., which had the audience captivated before they’d even played a note.

Flitting between vocals from front man Tim and drummer Vidar Norheim throughout the set, Wave Machines took the audience on a journey from synth-lead pop ‘I Go I Go I Go’ to the dark ‘Dead Houses’ with ease, ending with single ‘Punk Spirit’ leaving the Doherty clan pleasantly surprised.

Unfortunately, I’m unable to tell you about Petey’s performance, as surprise surprise the cockney fella didn’t show. Wave Machines did a stonking job warming up however, I just hope next time the crowd are there to see these promising chaps instead.