Martin Langhorn goes to see a performance from the rockers who shoot to thrill.

The Rifles, the indie band from Chingford, have had their fair share of ups and downs over the years – including being on a Mafia wanted list apparently after one of them chatted up the wrong lady, and a split in 2009.

But tonight, for the first time since the split, the original line up is back together in Oxford. And they are ready to make up for those lost years. November sees the release of their latest single, which is just a taster of what’s to come on new album, None The Wiser, out in January.

With the exception of two new songs, recent single Heebie Jeebies and new track Minute Mile — which both go down like old favourites — tonight’s set largely consists of tracks from their first two albums: 2006’s No Love Lost and 2009’s Great Escape. Both were recorded with the line up on show tonight.

A textbook performance is turned in from start to finish from opener She’s Got Standards and Hometown Blues from their debut, right through to the closer When I'm Alone.

The crowd do not let up throughout the upbeat set, shouting the band’s name like a football chant. There are even a few stage-invaders, much to the annoyance of security — though the band seem to laugh it off in good humour.

We also get treated to a short acoustic set, with tracks Spend a Lifetime and Rock the Boat showcasing the band’s lighter side as seen on the recent acoustic tour.

Throughout the night, at in every gap between songs, the crowd chanting and sing the chorus to favourite Romeo and Julie. However, due to a combination of late stage time, and fears over over-running, the crowd are sent home without hearing it.

Their new album might not set the world alight, but tonight’s performance show The Rifles are majorly underrated.

The Rifles
O2 Academy, Oxford