By Digestive Biscuit, Music Columnist 

Playing to a packed crowd at the Bearfield Halls last week, The Complainers were in fine form. That is to say, there was the usual minimalist stage set, with poor lighting and absolutely no special effects.  

Hundreds of bears flocked to Bear Central for this one off concert and the two famous Pessabears did not disappoint. That is to say, they were deeply disappointed, and it came across in every lyric. 

Their latest album, Can’t Win For Losing has been enormously popular, and the Bearfield Halls, were crammed with fans eager to hear the latest tunes. When I say tunes, I mean dirges, monotonal rants and the occasional off-key ballad. The Complainers faces grew more sour with every number, particularly when the crowd roared their approval and sang along with hits like: “It Never Rains But It Pours”, “I Knew This Would Happen” and “Scraping The Bottom Of The Barrel”.

Strangely enough, despite the clear attempt to bring everyone down, their gigs always seem to have the opposite effect. I spotted more than a few miserable faces in the audience leaving the venue smiling and laughing. 

Another complete disaster for The Complainers of course – as everyone clearly missed the point of their music. They have just announced a tour of Outer Beargolia where they are undoubtedly hoping for a low turnout because of the distance bears would have to travel. Somehow, I suspect they are going to be disappointed.

A win-win for every bear!