A Monday night venture into an extremely damp Soho led me to the welcoming bosom of Madame Jo Jo’s, hosting a single launch by up-and-coming band The Outside Royalty. Sheltering from the elements, we were treated to two other acts in support, so a big “big up” to the wonderful Penny Black Remedy and their mix of psychobilly country skank and to the powerful voice and big piano sound of Ciara Haidar.

A couple of years ago the Outside Royalty took an almighty leap of faith and moved from their native Pittsburgh to London, acquiring an English bassist and French cellist along the way. They’ve quickly built up a sizeable and dedicated following, garnered some favourable reviews and late last year supported Young Knives on tour. Tonight we were promised the last airing of some favourites from their current repertoire before they disappear on a mini UK tour, road testing some new material.

Musically, the Outside Royalty blend electro-acoustic guitar, violin, cello and synths to create a euphoric blend that is by turns reminiscent of Arcade Fire, Pulp and early Roxy Music (amongst others), and vocalist Adam Billings’ voice has a definite hint of the Ferries and Bowies about it. Before launching into their renowned version of Eleanor Rigby, they joked that they haven’t yet made it to Liverpool, so they don’t know what sort of reception their cover would receive round those parts. The debut single, Falling, is an insistent track with a memorable chorus that quickly embeds itself in the little grey cells and, after a bit of a false start of an encore, they finished with the driving Liquid.

Stepping back into the sodden Soho streets, I think it is time for people to welcome in the Outside Royalty. Watch this space.