Professional players

Abu Dhabi Week heads down to the basement of Heroes at Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi to hang out with resident band, The International Playboys

The foursome that make up the International Playboys are a lively bunch, with a mix of drums, guitars and some rather good vocal talent making up the sound – a mix of pop rock that manages to bring the crowds to Heroes, something of a legendary venue in Abu Dhabi.

With a slight Indie edge the group perform a real range of popular hits, including the likes of No Doubt, and The Kooks.

“We’re a real band,” says band founder Andy. “We have to keep it fresh and original.”

Drummer Sam agrees. “We don’t want to be one of those bands who climbs on stage night after night like robots. We come with no backing tracks and no apologies,” he says while scribbling down the band’s set list for the night, only to be told by Andy that, “we’re not playing that!”

Up on stage the band are clearly in their element, dressed rather sharply in their “Reservoir Dogs meets James Bond” get up of sharp black and white suits, complete with skinny ties. Guitar pro and rock chick in the group, Belinda dresses up her rock punk instincts with a tartan skirt for the evening.

“We want people to feel like we’re performing in their living room,” says Sam. “This is, in my view, what live music is all about.”

Charlie Kennedy

When: The International Playboys
When? Tuesday-Friday from 10.30pm
Where? Heroes, Crowne Plaza Hamdan Street
Contact: 02 621 0000