The Boat People, Dan Parsons and Lovecreep, Dead Letter Chorus, Jewel and the Falcon, Seagull, Blame Ringo, The Retreat
So, what do you do when the Troubadour closes down and leaves a whole lot of bands without venues to play? Book out the Old Museum, have all the bands play on the one night and call it a "mini festival"! Brilliant! As advertised, the first 200 people through the door get themselves a copy of the The Boat People's "Dear Darkly". I got there around 9.30 and as I walked into the Old Museum, there were still piles of CDs. Disheartening. As I walked into the room (which is freaking huge let me remind you) there would not have been more than 150 people there. And Never! had been going since 6pm... I felt kinda bad. Half of those that were there were industry people as well! The Boat People are such an incredible band, not to mention the other acts playing this night, like Dan Parsons, Dead Letter Chours and Blame Ringo! And shit like this always happens to them! ie. venues closing down thus having to change venues, and when eventually finding an venue, they double book the night with an orchestra concert. They did get the venue over the orchestra though, so that is a good thing. But still! It's just damn bad luck I say.
Missing the first three acts I walked in just as Dead Letter Chorus was about to start. At first I wasn't sold. The chick singer had a bit of a whiney voice, and that never really sits right with me, but as their set went on she actually had me slightly captivated. This is a good thing. And I ended up quite enjoying their set. Go figure. I did quite like their song about travelling. Something about it. Also, their latest single 'The Peaceful Sleep of Death' was awesome! They ended their set with all member ditching their instruments, picking up some drum sticks and going for broke on toms. T'was an epic end to their set. Tight also. Mmm. I dig. Oh! One thing I also just have to mention, the bass player's beard was quite possibly the most impressive beard I have ever seen. Period.
Ok, so I thought it was just some weird effect that the guitarist from Dead Letter Chorus had going on there, but no. Guitars sound really quite shit in the Old Museum. Opening his set with a solo guitar rif, it was probably not quite the sound Dan Parsons had in mind when he started up. His Lovecreep tonight only had Steve Grady on guitars, bass and vocals and one other on drums and synth up the back. A little more full on than what we're used to having heard more solo and duo shows of late. He played quite a lot of his newer material tonight as well as a selection off his latest record. This selection however has been quite the reworked! For example, 'Run with me'! It's quite different from the last time I heard it with his band. All the responses being "you don't know me" as opposed to "no one knows the answer, no one knows the way home". Different, but good. Mixes it up a little bit.
As The Boat People took to the stage, they insisted that those dedicated enough to stick the afternoon out to its conclusion (remember, the evening started at 6, and time now was easily after 11) come to the front instead of lurking in the seats at the back. Good call! James looked a little worse for wear, but nonetheless they put on a stellar show. Tonight was actually the first time I had heard 'Dance to My Pain' live. It was good to hear them put in a couple of different songs into their set, and as much as I love these guys, they have been playing the same set for quite some time now... As usual, they finished with 'Light of Love (You Got A...)' and I'll say it the perfect end to their set! But it is so expected now. I hate to say it, but they need to mix things up a bit set list wise.
What I saw of Never! was incredible. But the whole event wasn't thought out very well. If you want to throw a "mini festival" even at short notice more consideration needs to be taken for those attending. I think of the people who had been there from 6pm. Six hours at one venue is quite an epic endeavour, that's half a day when you think about it. People were running off here are there for food runs etc. Ah well. Let's put it down to short notice.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Triple J's AusMusic Month Party - 17 November 2010, The HiFi
John Steel Singers, Hungry Kids of Hungary, Ball Park Music
This is the big one. I actually can't imagine a better line-up for the Brisbane leg of Triple J's AusMusic Month Party. Combine up and coming superstars Ball Park Music with Hungry Kids of Hungary fresh off the back of the Sydney and Melbourne legs of their national tour and The John Steel Singers who just ooze with awesomeness and you have one hell of a party. Then throw in guests with names like Dave McCormack, Inland Sea, Seja, and Robert Forster, and... wow. Mind blowing. And if names alone weren't enough, the sets would certainly be enough!
Even as I arrived at the HiFi a bit after doors open there was still a line to get into the venue. A good sign! And walking in, it was already half full, and Ball Park Music were yet to start! And when they did, oh what a show they put on! Something quite special! Playing a mixed bag of their repertoire, they showcased just what a special band they are. Frontman Sam Cromack is an entity unto himself, lighting up the stage with his tireless vocals. And when Dave McCormack joined them on stage for a new take on Custard's classic 'Apartment', it was actually a sight to behold. To have Dave McCormack singing one of his own with the new kids on the block! Yeah, pretty special. They finished off their set with crowd favourite 'iFly'. As usual they took the time in the middle of the song to chill for a bit before continuing on, however tonight they honoured Triple J getting the crowd to chorus "We love music"! As they continued on for the end of the song guitarist Brock basically picked up frontman Sam, and launched him off the stage, over the barrier and into the crowd. Needless to say, this band can do no wrong.
After getting the part started with Ball Park Music, Hungry Kids of Hungary took to the stage to continue with magic of their own. Playing a power set of current single and hits gone by, they wowed the crowd with renditions of 'Scattered Diamonds' and 'Let You Down'. They also played songs from their new record "Escapades", creating something quite special for this night with 'Eat Your Heart Out'. They welcomed to the stage all ten members of Inland Sea, Seja and also Meg from Little Scout to fill out the texture and give the crowd a stunning rendition on this song. Backing up this song was a cover of Kylie Minogue's 'Can't Get You Out Of My Head' where Seja took lead vocals and Inland Sea provided divine harmonies. All I can say is, I can't wait to hear this again when the Hungry Kids' set hits Triple J. Can't Wait!
It was a little disappointing to see the room empty a little after the Hungry Kids' set. Yes, it's a Wednesday night, and yes, some have school and work the next day, but seriously! Leaving before the headlining act!? Their loss I suppose. However, while watching the John Steel Singers, I felt a little lost. I feel as though they have lost that sparkle that made them such a stellar live band. Now that they have released their new record 'Tangalooma' it's like they have, I don't know, forgotten how to be a live band. Don't get me wrong, they were fantastic this night, but I suppose I was expecting just something a little bit more special. Robert Forster then joined the six-piece on stage for one of the JSS own and something a little bit different.
The finale of the concert was actually a sight to behold, welcoming back all the main acts for more Australian covers. To have Sam from Ball Park and Dean from Hungry Kids both singing lead on the one song was quite special. I keep saying that there were a lot of special moments this night, and I am not going to stop. The whole night was actually something more. So brilliant. The highlight of the night though for me would have to be Ball Park Music's set. They stole the show in my opinion, upstaging the John Steel Singers, and even Hungry Kids of Hungary. I do predict big things happening for these young whippersnappers.
This is the big one. I actually can't imagine a better line-up for the Brisbane leg of Triple J's AusMusic Month Party. Combine up and coming superstars Ball Park Music with Hungry Kids of Hungary fresh off the back of the Sydney and Melbourne legs of their national tour and The John Steel Singers who just ooze with awesomeness and you have one hell of a party. Then throw in guests with names like Dave McCormack, Inland Sea, Seja, and Robert Forster, and... wow. Mind blowing. And if names alone weren't enough, the sets would certainly be enough!
Even as I arrived at the HiFi a bit after doors open there was still a line to get into the venue. A good sign! And walking in, it was already half full, and Ball Park Music were yet to start! And when they did, oh what a show they put on! Something quite special! Playing a mixed bag of their repertoire, they showcased just what a special band they are. Frontman Sam Cromack is an entity unto himself, lighting up the stage with his tireless vocals. And when Dave McCormack joined them on stage for a new take on Custard's classic 'Apartment', it was actually a sight to behold. To have Dave McCormack singing one of his own with the new kids on the block! Yeah, pretty special. They finished off their set with crowd favourite 'iFly'. As usual they took the time in the middle of the song to chill for a bit before continuing on, however tonight they honoured Triple J getting the crowd to chorus "We love music"! As they continued on for the end of the song guitarist Brock basically picked up frontman Sam, and launched him off the stage, over the barrier and into the crowd. Needless to say, this band can do no wrong.
After getting the part started with Ball Park Music, Hungry Kids of Hungary took to the stage to continue with magic of their own. Playing a power set of current single and hits gone by, they wowed the crowd with renditions of 'Scattered Diamonds' and 'Let You Down'. They also played songs from their new record "Escapades", creating something quite special for this night with 'Eat Your Heart Out'. They welcomed to the stage all ten members of Inland Sea, Seja and also Meg from Little Scout to fill out the texture and give the crowd a stunning rendition on this song. Backing up this song was a cover of Kylie Minogue's 'Can't Get You Out Of My Head' where Seja took lead vocals and Inland Sea provided divine harmonies. All I can say is, I can't wait to hear this again when the Hungry Kids' set hits Triple J. Can't Wait!
It was a little disappointing to see the room empty a little after the Hungry Kids' set. Yes, it's a Wednesday night, and yes, some have school and work the next day, but seriously! Leaving before the headlining act!? Their loss I suppose. However, while watching the John Steel Singers, I felt a little lost. I feel as though they have lost that sparkle that made them such a stellar live band. Now that they have released their new record 'Tangalooma' it's like they have, I don't know, forgotten how to be a live band. Don't get me wrong, they were fantastic this night, but I suppose I was expecting just something a little bit more special. Robert Forster then joined the six-piece on stage for one of the JSS own and something a little bit different.
The finale of the concert was actually a sight to behold, welcoming back all the main acts for more Australian covers. To have Sam from Ball Park and Dean from Hungry Kids both singing lead on the one song was quite special. I keep saying that there were a lot of special moments this night, and I am not going to stop. The whole night was actually something more. So brilliant. The highlight of the night though for me would have to be Ball Park Music's set. They stole the show in my opinion, upstaging the John Steel Singers, and even Hungry Kids of Hungary. I do predict big things happening for these young whippersnappers.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
A Troubadour Farewell Soiree - 16 November 2010, The Troubadour
Skinny Jean, Little Scout, Re:enactment, The Slow Push, Mosman Alder
This is the final week of Brisbane live music as we know it. The end of the Troubadour. I know I am devastated so I can't even imagine how others are fearing! But in times of crisis we come together and drink obscene amounts of cider. It makes everything bearable. Sam, doorman for the Troub and drummer for Skinny Jean put together tonight's line up. An interesting array of bands that actually complemented each other quite well. I wouldn't have though thought putting Mosman Alder straight before The Slow Push would have quite worked because they are just so completely different, but you know what? It actually worked really well.
Getting down to business first up were Mosman Alder. These guys have a fascinating thing going on. Where most bands stick to the "four to the floor" kind of time signatures for almost an entire set, Mosman had quite a substantial portion of songs in either 3/4 or 6/8. And it wasn't strange nor weird, but more captured what the band is really about. They write quite a catchy tune, and while I am usually one to dismiss the addition of a violin to the everyday workings of a band, they did really well to incorporate it while not making the texture too full and heavy. These guys have untapped potential. T'will be a group to look out for.
Like I said before, having The Slow Push straight up after Mosman Alder would not have been my choice, but it kinda worked. Again, I'd never heard of these guys, and to tell you the truth, they are not my cup of tea. Regardless they actually had me captivated by the end of their set. Go figure. Combining a frontman vocalist, a chick singing and dabbling on the synth, guitar and tambourine, a guy on bass, another on guitar and a kit player, the five piece created a sound that was uniquely their own. The whole ensemble had relentless energy despite the ever increasing heat in the venue, but the chick was actually a little mind blowing. There was not a second in the entire set where she let her energy lapse. Also she was wearing maroon culottes overalls! A winner in my books, always.
Since last I heard Little Scout almost 6 months ago the bad has undergone a rather large transformation. While still retaining their quirky pop nature, they have matured their sound quite a bit. I think recording with Jonathan Boulet has done them the world of good, and has influenced their sound taking it in all new and exciting directions. Most of their new material have frontgirl Mel freeing herself from bass duties (Shem from Skinny Jean picked it up instead) which allowed her to more freely explore the presence she can create on stage. She did however retake the bass for their older song, which was nice. Mix it up a little bit. While I was relishing in the material of their previously released EPs, I do quite like the new direction they are going with their songwriting and arrangements and am quite the exited to hear what is going to come out of the studio.
Skinny Jean. I do quite like this band. And they played a fitting set to farewell The Troubadour the way it should. Their set was tight as usual, but I think they need to find a little bit more focus in the direction they are going with the band. In saying that their rendition of 'Ape' was mind blowing. Dedicated to the landlord causing all the problems at the venue, it had so much passion and fire, and was a fitting end to their stellar set.
By this stage in the night, the room had been packed for a good portion of it, and the heat was getting unbearable! So I just couldn't stay for Re:enactment, which I was quite disappointed about. i would have loved to see what they would have done with a full audience as opposed to the three groups of people they had at the last gig I saw them at. But alas. Another time... maybe.
This is the final week of Brisbane live music as we know it. The end of the Troubadour. I know I am devastated so I can't even imagine how others are fearing! But in times of crisis we come together and drink obscene amounts of cider. It makes everything bearable. Sam, doorman for the Troub and drummer for Skinny Jean put together tonight's line up. An interesting array of bands that actually complemented each other quite well. I wouldn't have though thought putting Mosman Alder straight before The Slow Push would have quite worked because they are just so completely different, but you know what? It actually worked really well.
Getting down to business first up were Mosman Alder. These guys have a fascinating thing going on. Where most bands stick to the "four to the floor" kind of time signatures for almost an entire set, Mosman had quite a substantial portion of songs in either 3/4 or 6/8. And it wasn't strange nor weird, but more captured what the band is really about. They write quite a catchy tune, and while I am usually one to dismiss the addition of a violin to the everyday workings of a band, they did really well to incorporate it while not making the texture too full and heavy. These guys have untapped potential. T'will be a group to look out for.
Like I said before, having The Slow Push straight up after Mosman Alder would not have been my choice, but it kinda worked. Again, I'd never heard of these guys, and to tell you the truth, they are not my cup of tea. Regardless they actually had me captivated by the end of their set. Go figure. Combining a frontman vocalist, a chick singing and dabbling on the synth, guitar and tambourine, a guy on bass, another on guitar and a kit player, the five piece created a sound that was uniquely their own. The whole ensemble had relentless energy despite the ever increasing heat in the venue, but the chick was actually a little mind blowing. There was not a second in the entire set where she let her energy lapse. Also she was wearing maroon culottes overalls! A winner in my books, always.
Since last I heard Little Scout almost 6 months ago the bad has undergone a rather large transformation. While still retaining their quirky pop nature, they have matured their sound quite a bit. I think recording with Jonathan Boulet has done them the world of good, and has influenced their sound taking it in all new and exciting directions. Most of their new material have frontgirl Mel freeing herself from bass duties (Shem from Skinny Jean picked it up instead) which allowed her to more freely explore the presence she can create on stage. She did however retake the bass for their older song, which was nice. Mix it up a little bit. While I was relishing in the material of their previously released EPs, I do quite like the new direction they are going with their songwriting and arrangements and am quite the exited to hear what is going to come out of the studio.
Skinny Jean. I do quite like this band. And they played a fitting set to farewell The Troubadour the way it should. Their set was tight as usual, but I think they need to find a little bit more focus in the direction they are going with the band. In saying that their rendition of 'Ape' was mind blowing. Dedicated to the landlord causing all the problems at the venue, it had so much passion and fire, and was a fitting end to their stellar set.
By this stage in the night, the room had been packed for a good portion of it, and the heat was getting unbearable! So I just couldn't stay for Re:enactment, which I was quite disappointed about. i would have loved to see what they would have done with a full audience as opposed to the three groups of people they had at the last gig I saw them at. But alas. Another time... maybe.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Montpelier - 13 November 2010, The Zoo
w/ The Art of Sleeping, Jac Stone, Kate Martin
Just a short one from me, just hitting up The Zoo for Montpelier rather than the entire night of live music. So here's the thing. I love Montpelier to pieces. Their songs just sit right with me. However live, they are losing me! I have seen them a couple of times of late, and the first couple of times were incredible, but as things continue, the less I enjoy myself. I think that they are just a little boring to watch on stage, and I hate myself for even thinking such a thing, but it's true... Despite the fact that they had numerous guests on stage this night, including, Dave Di Marco, Hannah Shepherd and Will Weightman from Charlie Mayfair as well as Tom Wearne from Tin Can Radio on trumpet, I still found them to be a little dull. Here is my theory. I know that when playing live, you want to give something more than what is already on record, however that doesn't mean that in every song you need to add a long instrumental bridge or intro or outro. And Montpelier seemed to do this to most of their songs tonight. There is a fine line between keeping a track from what is on record, and changing and adding so much to it that it loses the conciseness and cohesion that made the song great in the first place.
Ok, so despite my criticism, I really did enjoy their set tonight. Their new single 'Last Boat' is stunning, and caught my attention from the very first gig of theirs I attended. Keep on keeping on!
Just a short one from me, just hitting up The Zoo for Montpelier rather than the entire night of live music. So here's the thing. I love Montpelier to pieces. Their songs just sit right with me. However live, they are losing me! I have seen them a couple of times of late, and the first couple of times were incredible, but as things continue, the less I enjoy myself. I think that they are just a little boring to watch on stage, and I hate myself for even thinking such a thing, but it's true... Despite the fact that they had numerous guests on stage this night, including, Dave Di Marco, Hannah Shepherd and Will Weightman from Charlie Mayfair as well as Tom Wearne from Tin Can Radio on trumpet, I still found them to be a little dull. Here is my theory. I know that when playing live, you want to give something more than what is already on record, however that doesn't mean that in every song you need to add a long instrumental bridge or intro or outro. And Montpelier seemed to do this to most of their songs tonight. There is a fine line between keeping a track from what is on record, and changing and adding so much to it that it loses the conciseness and cohesion that made the song great in the first place.
Ok, so despite my criticism, I really did enjoy their set tonight. Their new single 'Last Boat' is stunning, and caught my attention from the very first gig of theirs I attended. Keep on keeping on!
Monday, November 8, 2010
The Basics - 5 November 2010, Clubhouse: Tempo Hotel
w/ Georgia Fair, Bang Bang Boss Kelly
So tonight brought much the same type of crowd to Tempo as last night, however what was nice to see was that is was much larger. As for how many people actually came for the music though is another story (tonight being a Friday night as opposed to a school night).
I missed Big Band Boss Kelly this night, and I have to admit, Georgia Fair were not one to catch my attention. When they began a hushed silence came across the room in anticipation, however the longer their set continued, the more of the crowd they lost, or at least this is what I found. I won't lie, they lost me pretty early on their set... It's not that they weren't tight, or they didn't have brilliant songs, it's just that each one had the same type of vibe to it. Having the same energy for an entire set just doesn't sit right for me. I don't know. Maybe give me another listen to them sometime in a room that doesn't utterly sap the life-force from my body.
Tonight was my first Basics experience, and I was hoping for greatness, as, like I said, this venue was draining the life from me. But oh my, they were absolutely freaking fantastic. For one, they all wore suits. There is nothing better than a suit, and every man living on this earth looks better in one. Just quietly... Moving on. These seasoned musicians really do know how to put on a good show. Moving from one hit to the next, I saw groups upon groups of people dancing and singing along. It was encouraging to see, and also made me a little sad, as these guys are taking quite a substantial break (if they come back together at all) so that they can focus on individual projects. This has mainly come about from Wally (Aka Gotye) working on the release of new material. It's funny how easily you could tell with these guys who wrote which song. I know Kris and Wally sing the songs they write, but their style of songwriting is do diverse yet they complement each other so well.
Having just got into The Basics, I am quite the sad that I won't be able to see them again for a good long while, so I can only image what long time fans would be feeling. Let us all hope though that they do reconnect in the future for some more fun filled gigs like this one.
So tonight brought much the same type of crowd to Tempo as last night, however what was nice to see was that is was much larger. As for how many people actually came for the music though is another story (tonight being a Friday night as opposed to a school night).
I missed Big Band Boss Kelly this night, and I have to admit, Georgia Fair were not one to catch my attention. When they began a hushed silence came across the room in anticipation, however the longer their set continued, the more of the crowd they lost, or at least this is what I found. I won't lie, they lost me pretty early on their set... It's not that they weren't tight, or they didn't have brilliant songs, it's just that each one had the same type of vibe to it. Having the same energy for an entire set just doesn't sit right for me. I don't know. Maybe give me another listen to them sometime in a room that doesn't utterly sap the life-force from my body.
Tonight was my first Basics experience, and I was hoping for greatness, as, like I said, this venue was draining the life from me. But oh my, they were absolutely freaking fantastic. For one, they all wore suits. There is nothing better than a suit, and every man living on this earth looks better in one. Just quietly... Moving on. These seasoned musicians really do know how to put on a good show. Moving from one hit to the next, I saw groups upon groups of people dancing and singing along. It was encouraging to see, and also made me a little sad, as these guys are taking quite a substantial break (if they come back together at all) so that they can focus on individual projects. This has mainly come about from Wally (Aka Gotye) working on the release of new material. It's funny how easily you could tell with these guys who wrote which song. I know Kris and Wally sing the songs they write, but their style of songwriting is do diverse yet they complement each other so well.
Having just got into The Basics, I am quite the sad that I won't be able to see them again for a good long while, so I can only image what long time fans would be feeling. Let us all hope though that they do reconnect in the future for some more fun filled gigs like this one.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
The Chemist - 4 November 2010, Clubhouse: Tempo Hotel
w/ re:enactment, Lion Island
So The Chemist sound amazing on record and I was more than anything wanting them be as good live as I hoped they would be. And to my delight, they did not disappoint in the slightest. In fact, they blew my mind. And you know what, I was totally ok with that!!
So Clubhouse has moved from the seclusion of the Stage door, (the downstairs room at the Tempo Hotel) to the main room upstairs. It's not really a venue for an act such as The Chemist or any serious band for the that matter. Opening the night was a solo guy playing Crowded House and Matchbox 20 covers. Not really the opening act Lion Island had in mind I can imagine. They set up to the typical bar crowd, but I do believe that Tempo brought out the best of the bogans in the Valley this night. Lion Island have an interesting thing going on. Take a band with seven members - a kit, two guitarists, a bass player, a violinist, a trumpeter, and the frontman on vocals and guitar. Seven members, and only one vocal mic. With almost every song having all three guitars, the violin and the trumpet. For me, I thought it was just too busy, so many different melody and counter melody lines, but no solid harmony lines. I found myself wishing for a little less of the in your face solidness of the sound, and a little more of the delicate intricacies that make a good band.
re:enactmanet were up next with their own style set of wild idea. To tell you the truth though, something just didn't seem right with this band tonight. I have heard that they are phenomenal live, but today they seemed a little off their game. I blame it on the terribly dodgy venue, and the lack of supportive punters. By this stage in the night, and the night only began at 9:30, there were probably 2 maybe three groups of people actually interested in what was going on on stage. The rest were interested in the music and more interested in sitting outside getting pissed. The joys of a gig in the main room of a pub.
This was the same story for The Chemist in that the room was equally as empty. And you know what, it seriously broke my heart. These guys have such an amazing act going on, and should be so much more recognised then was evident this night. But enough on my rant on the room. This quartet have so much talent stored up inside themselves they're about ready to pop! Their infectious refrains in "Lullaby #1 (Mercy)" just reek of awesomeness. Throughout their set many infinitely cool things happened. For one, frontman Ben Witt brought out his effects mic, for which they performed "Sweet Dreams", a song which utilises a bells riff on the keyboard as well as heaps of other sounds backing the solo voice, including a drum stick being scraped and dragged vertically across a cymbal, and the bass creating a feedback loop. It was phenominal, and would have been the perfect opener to their set. Maybe in a different set list. The other cool thing that makes this band just that much more awesome is that face that they bring a Piano Accordion to the mix. See, that's just cool. Their final song "End of July" ended leaving Witt alone onstage with his effects mic and a loop machine. This ending just topped of the set for me.
You may think I am getting a little too excited about this band, but take my word for it, next time they are in town, and hell, even if their not, go out of your way to see these guys. It is more than well worth it. I am just so disheartened that they played to an almost empty room. It just goes to show which direction Brisbane music is heading. We receive the news today that The Troubadour is going to close its door for the last time and people go ape-shit saying it's "one of Brisbane's finest live music venues" (which is a truth), yet the same day, I find myself at a gig put on by respected bands, playing to an empty room. If we want the live music scene in Brisbane to continue, or hell, even grow, things need to change!! At least this is my opinion. Take it, or leave it.
So The Chemist sound amazing on record and I was more than anything wanting them be as good live as I hoped they would be. And to my delight, they did not disappoint in the slightest. In fact, they blew my mind. And you know what, I was totally ok with that!!
So Clubhouse has moved from the seclusion of the Stage door, (the downstairs room at the Tempo Hotel) to the main room upstairs. It's not really a venue for an act such as The Chemist or any serious band for the that matter. Opening the night was a solo guy playing Crowded House and Matchbox 20 covers. Not really the opening act Lion Island had in mind I can imagine. They set up to the typical bar crowd, but I do believe that Tempo brought out the best of the bogans in the Valley this night. Lion Island have an interesting thing going on. Take a band with seven members - a kit, two guitarists, a bass player, a violinist, a trumpeter, and the frontman on vocals and guitar. Seven members, and only one vocal mic. With almost every song having all three guitars, the violin and the trumpet. For me, I thought it was just too busy, so many different melody and counter melody lines, but no solid harmony lines. I found myself wishing for a little less of the in your face solidness of the sound, and a little more of the delicate intricacies that make a good band.
re:enactmanet were up next with their own style set of wild idea. To tell you the truth though, something just didn't seem right with this band tonight. I have heard that they are phenomenal live, but today they seemed a little off their game. I blame it on the terribly dodgy venue, and the lack of supportive punters. By this stage in the night, and the night only began at 9:30, there were probably 2 maybe three groups of people actually interested in what was going on on stage. The rest were interested in the music and more interested in sitting outside getting pissed. The joys of a gig in the main room of a pub.
This was the same story for The Chemist in that the room was equally as empty. And you know what, it seriously broke my heart. These guys have such an amazing act going on, and should be so much more recognised then was evident this night. But enough on my rant on the room. This quartet have so much talent stored up inside themselves they're about ready to pop! Their infectious refrains in "Lullaby #1 (Mercy)" just reek of awesomeness. Throughout their set many infinitely cool things happened. For one, frontman Ben Witt brought out his effects mic, for which they performed "Sweet Dreams", a song which utilises a bells riff on the keyboard as well as heaps of other sounds backing the solo voice, including a drum stick being scraped and dragged vertically across a cymbal, and the bass creating a feedback loop. It was phenominal, and would have been the perfect opener to their set. Maybe in a different set list. The other cool thing that makes this band just that much more awesome is that face that they bring a Piano Accordion to the mix. See, that's just cool. Their final song "End of July" ended leaving Witt alone onstage with his effects mic and a loop machine. This ending just topped of the set for me.
You may think I am getting a little too excited about this band, but take my word for it, next time they are in town, and hell, even if their not, go out of your way to see these guys. It is more than well worth it. I am just so disheartened that they played to an almost empty room. It just goes to show which direction Brisbane music is heading. We receive the news today that The Troubadour is going to close its door for the last time and people go ape-shit saying it's "one of Brisbane's finest live music venues" (which is a truth), yet the same day, I find myself at a gig put on by respected bands, playing to an empty room. If we want the live music scene in Brisbane to continue, or hell, even grow, things need to change!! At least this is my opinion. Take it, or leave it.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Andy Bull - 3 November 2010, The Troubadour
w/ Tara Simmons
Two talented singer songwriters, one keyboard, a couple of Hungry Kids, and a stupidly small audience all graced the Troubadour with their presence this night, the eve of the most devastating news. T'was Andy Bull with Tara Simmons that brought these surprisingly few people to the Troubadour. And I can not for the life of me work out why there would not be more people. Ok, given it was a Wednesday night, but really, the music was all wrapped up by 10.30. Also Andy Bull was phenomenal! So I really can't fathom why they both played to a stupidly small gathering of people. *sigh*
Tara Simmons opened the night playing a solo set of songs both new and old. Dropping her usual entourage, it was lovely to see her in a solo capacity. She did mention that her set this night consisted of mainly reworked or new songs, and she was a little worried about the set. She shoulnd't have been. I am very excited to hear what she is going to do with her new songs, as obviously they won't stay arranged as solo keys and voice, but as to how they will turn out in the future, t'will be exciting to find out. Amongst all her songs, 'Rosemary' was the one that stood out for me tonight. It works so beautifully as a solo number, not needing anything else to augment it in any way. Her final number for the night was 'All You Can' and this one she insisted on audience participation to which usually she condones. So for a whole song we were slapping and clapping, and clapping and slapping. It was fun, yet utterly draining. Kinda worked well though, despite an obvious drop in audience participation as the song continued.
Andy Bull was next on and I will admit, I had heard the name dropped around the place, but never heard of any of his music. As soon as he opened his mouth, I was blown away. I didn't think that a sound that pure (and high and light) could come out of that body! He had a completely different act going on than Tara Simmons despite the fact that he also was going with the solo act. He had such a diverse array of sounds programmed onto his keyboard, but it was not only that, it was the fact that his songs were so diverse that the different sounds lended themselves perfectly to what he was creating. He talked and told stories a great deal while he was on stage, and they were quite captivating, but a little too frequent if you ask me. I did giggle a little from the story accompanied by the song 'Small Town Asshole'. Nutshell: Radio interview, gig the same night, guy with barbed wire tattoo confronts Andy telling him he's a fag, he doesn't give him anything. The tough guy tries again, telling him he's a little girl. Still gets nothing. Walks away pissed. Ends up dancing away in Andy's set. Haha! Classic. Dean and Kane from the Hungry Kids also took to the stage along with Tara Simmons to perform a live rendition of 'Last Waltz' which was quite stunning. I am very excited to hear more from Master Bull, and hear what else he has to offer.
See, Wednesdays nights can be good fun. They don't have to be spent cooped up at home with no fun to be had. I do believe that more people should make the effort to come out for some good music on Wednesday nights. And you know what, if there's a mid-week cider thrown in as well, That's totally ok by me.
And that devastating news? On the 21st of November, The Troubadour will be calling last drinks :(
Two talented singer songwriters, one keyboard, a couple of Hungry Kids, and a stupidly small audience all graced the Troubadour with their presence this night, the eve of the most devastating news. T'was Andy Bull with Tara Simmons that brought these surprisingly few people to the Troubadour. And I can not for the life of me work out why there would not be more people. Ok, given it was a Wednesday night, but really, the music was all wrapped up by 10.30. Also Andy Bull was phenomenal! So I really can't fathom why they both played to a stupidly small gathering of people. *sigh*
Tara Simmons opened the night playing a solo set of songs both new and old. Dropping her usual entourage, it was lovely to see her in a solo capacity. She did mention that her set this night consisted of mainly reworked or new songs, and she was a little worried about the set. She shoulnd't have been. I am very excited to hear what she is going to do with her new songs, as obviously they won't stay arranged as solo keys and voice, but as to how they will turn out in the future, t'will be exciting to find out. Amongst all her songs, 'Rosemary' was the one that stood out for me tonight. It works so beautifully as a solo number, not needing anything else to augment it in any way. Her final number for the night was 'All You Can' and this one she insisted on audience participation to which usually she condones. So for a whole song we were slapping and clapping, and clapping and slapping. It was fun, yet utterly draining. Kinda worked well though, despite an obvious drop in audience participation as the song continued.
Andy Bull was next on and I will admit, I had heard the name dropped around the place, but never heard of any of his music. As soon as he opened his mouth, I was blown away. I didn't think that a sound that pure (and high and light) could come out of that body! He had a completely different act going on than Tara Simmons despite the fact that he also was going with the solo act. He had such a diverse array of sounds programmed onto his keyboard, but it was not only that, it was the fact that his songs were so diverse that the different sounds lended themselves perfectly to what he was creating. He talked and told stories a great deal while he was on stage, and they were quite captivating, but a little too frequent if you ask me. I did giggle a little from the story accompanied by the song 'Small Town Asshole'. Nutshell: Radio interview, gig the same night, guy with barbed wire tattoo confronts Andy telling him he's a fag, he doesn't give him anything. The tough guy tries again, telling him he's a little girl. Still gets nothing. Walks away pissed. Ends up dancing away in Andy's set. Haha! Classic. Dean and Kane from the Hungry Kids also took to the stage along with Tara Simmons to perform a live rendition of 'Last Waltz' which was quite stunning. I am very excited to hear more from Master Bull, and hear what else he has to offer.
See, Wednesdays nights can be good fun. They don't have to be spent cooped up at home with no fun to be had. I do believe that more people should make the effort to come out for some good music on Wednesday nights. And you know what, if there's a mid-week cider thrown in as well, That's totally ok by me.
And that devastating news? On the 21st of November, The Troubadour will be calling last drinks :(
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Parsons/Grady - 31 October 2010, Brisbane Powerhouse
Dan Parsons, Steve Grady
I do believe the Powerhouse on a Sunday afternoon for Live Spark is one the most pleasurable ways to do away with day of weekends end. And then bring together Dan Parsons and Steve Grady playing a joint acoustic show and I do not believe you can do wrong. I do quite enjoy the fact that there are rows of couches lined up in front of the stage, with tables and chairs behind that. Such a chilled atmosphere, and so appropriate for a Sunday afternoon.
Celebrating the release of Steve Grady's new single 'Concrete Garden' Parsons and Grady teamed up to play both new and old songs in acoustic fashion. Steve opened with one of his previous singles, then passed over to Dan. This trend continued throughout the show, one of Steve's songs, followed by one of Dan's. I was surprised at how many new tunes Steve Grady had up his sleeve. I think he only played one tune off his previous release "Hotel Chelsea", and this is very good to see! His new songs have a certain sophistication and show that he has become a much more mature songwriter and has so much more to give. Dan showcased many songs off his most recent release "Firestarter" but in stripped back arrangements, as well as a couple of newies. During Dan's songs where Steve was playing a supportive guitar part, I kept noticing how much he was tapping his guitar. It was really prominent in the mix, and it almost killed the actual sound of the chords he was playing. I don't know, maybe that was just me, but I kind of found it a little irritating, as every time he has a sections with tapping, it was just so prominent! Regardless, the set was tight, and utilised quick changes from Dan between his guitar and his ganjo. (Self explained as a "banjo for lazy people like me") It's a pretty cool instrument, sounds like a banjo, but has six strings, thus can be played exactly like a guitar. Steve's new single 'Concrete Garden' is stunning. I do very much like it. However his last song, 'Did You Make It Home' was my personal favourite.
A chilled afternoon, with some stellar tunes. So as I said before, a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
I do believe the Powerhouse on a Sunday afternoon for Live Spark is one the most pleasurable ways to do away with day of weekends end. And then bring together Dan Parsons and Steve Grady playing a joint acoustic show and I do not believe you can do wrong. I do quite enjoy the fact that there are rows of couches lined up in front of the stage, with tables and chairs behind that. Such a chilled atmosphere, and so appropriate for a Sunday afternoon.
Celebrating the release of Steve Grady's new single 'Concrete Garden' Parsons and Grady teamed up to play both new and old songs in acoustic fashion. Steve opened with one of his previous singles, then passed over to Dan. This trend continued throughout the show, one of Steve's songs, followed by one of Dan's. I was surprised at how many new tunes Steve Grady had up his sleeve. I think he only played one tune off his previous release "Hotel Chelsea", and this is very good to see! His new songs have a certain sophistication and show that he has become a much more mature songwriter and has so much more to give. Dan showcased many songs off his most recent release "Firestarter" but in stripped back arrangements, as well as a couple of newies. During Dan's songs where Steve was playing a supportive guitar part, I kept noticing how much he was tapping his guitar. It was really prominent in the mix, and it almost killed the actual sound of the chords he was playing. I don't know, maybe that was just me, but I kind of found it a little irritating, as every time he has a sections with tapping, it was just so prominent! Regardless, the set was tight, and utilised quick changes from Dan between his guitar and his ganjo. (Self explained as a "banjo for lazy people like me") It's a pretty cool instrument, sounds like a banjo, but has six strings, thus can be played exactly like a guitar. Steve's new single 'Concrete Garden' is stunning. I do very much like it. However his last song, 'Did You Make It Home' was my personal favourite.
A chilled afternoon, with some stellar tunes. So as I said before, a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
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