As the subjects of an award-winning documentary backed by the likes of Angelina Jolie, Paul McCartney and Keith Richards, Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars might have expected a sell-out UK debut. The underwhelming reality didn't bother them any.

"Wow, we're in London!" declares frontman Reuben Koroma, beaming at a room that was, for him, half-full. When you've experienced the carnage of civil war and the desolation of west African refugee camps, as all seven band members have, you learn a thing about perspective.

Refugee All Stars were formed in exile. They used music as therapy and turned professional when a Canadian aid organisation supplied instruments and a PA. Their album, Living Like a Refugee, showcases their fondness for guitar-stylings and what might be classic roots reggae - but isn't. Live, their traditional baskeda rhythms get lift off with guitar riffs, congas, kit drums and showmanship. A rapper toasts like Busta Rhymes.

A bassist plays his instrument on his head. Koroma, who like most of the band, lost family and was tortured, sings, dances, banters. Left-handed guitarist Franco Langba and vocalist Abdul Rahim Kamara get turns in the spotlight. But there was little onstage bonhomie, let alone eye contact. It's as if after all they have been through, each man needs his space.