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The blustery gales around Belfast have blown an ample crowd into the Time to Be Proud gig in the Black Box this evening. It's the debut gig for four piece indie pop group 3D Shark and they kick off tonight's action with enthusiasm and vigour.

Their songs are upbeat with catchy lyrics and lead vocals that sound distinctively akin to Fergal Sharkey. The audience are clearly charmed by their charismatic performance and seem genuinely disappointed when their short set comes to an end. It's a great first performance from 3D Shark, and theres every chance they could be a band to look out for in the future.

The kAMIkIDS quartet pump out a set of pulsing indie electro tunes crammed full of captivating hook line riffs, a perfect combination to pull some shapes to, but the lethargic crowd are happy to just sit back and enjoy the music this evening. There is a lovely dynamic created between the male and female vocalists and together they deliver cleverly written and heartfelt lyrics. "The Inquisition" and "Candide" are particular attractions in a tight sounding performance from a band that brings a very refreshing and unique sound to the hiving local scene, and will no doubt gain even more momentum from their many upcoming gigs.

Next on tonight's menu is an energetic and lively performance from Stop! Stop! Start Again. It's difficult to pin point their exact genre, but rock 'n' roll seared with punk appears to be an accurate synopsis. Rigorous guitar riffs twined with the front man's energy encourage a few intrepid individuals to leave their seats and take to the floor. At times the vocals seem a little weak but admittedly they improve as the set goes on, and the band are generally well received by the on lookers. They finish up with a reputable cover of Placebo's "Nancy Boy".

During a lengthy interval Terri Hooley (founder of Good Vibrations records) and friends take to the stage to perform a stirring rendition of "Excuse Me Mr." Terri's thick Belfast twang makes the songs' poignant message resonate and he gets a standing ovation from a large section of the crowd.

Old punk hands The Defects are the headline act this evening. Their fast paced and raucous performance is evidentially lost on many of the punters, some of whom gradually leave. Meanwhile the band belt out songs that are seething with rebellion and angst. The amount of passion that they play with must be admired, as should the stunning guitar solos. A handful of hardcore fans spend the duration of the set head banging and chanting along to every song, and the lead singer even shares the mic with them on many occasions.

This truly is a Time to Be Proud of local music, and this evening has showcased an interesting and diverse mix of the old and of the new.

Jamie Glover