w/ Mosman Alder
And we're back at The Spiegletent as part of Brisbane Festival. This is a good thing in itself however, what makes it even better is the fact that the lovely and fabulous Kimbra was going to grace us with her music making.
Mosman Alder, it's been quite a while. And I'm delighted to say they've come a long way. I love the way the band incorporates a violin seamlessly into the texture of the songs, while also taking on the melody work on numerous occasions also. When this did happen, it was usually the violin and the keys playing a doubled melody while the rest of the band baked. This really did make for a texture unique to the band. Two things - first, if you're going to thank your audience, give them a chance to think for themselves and decide if they are actually going to applaud your work before thanking them for thanking you causing obligatory applause. That actually annoys me. Thank an audience after they start applauding your songs. And second, if you're going to play music as a profession, look excited to be there. Nuff said. In saying all this though, I do like this band, especially 'Raisin Heart'. The frontman's gorgeous baritone really does shine though in this.
Mosman Alder played an incredibly short set. This was both a good and bad thing - good in that we could get to Kimbra, and bad because I wanted to hear more. Seriously, I have to say this. There is a line between "amateur" professional musicians and professional musicians. Tonight it was obvious that the line between the likes of an act such as Mosman Alder and Kimbra was no fine line, but a vast field. The difference in the caliber of performance was phenomenal! What I'm talking about has nothing to do with the songs themselves, but in how they are delivered, presented, and more importantly, performed! Kimbra and her band (which included a guy on drums with his hair styled in a Flat Top, and a pretty impressive one at that) were what can only be described as tight. Flawless in their execution even. Not only is Kimbra herself as mad as a spoon in the best possible way when she performs, but also there was no hint of doubt, uncertainty or any of the like at any moment in her performance. Everything was planned down to the tee, and she even managed a costume change! Seriously! Who does that! It was freaking awesome. The band played on, and she left, and returned in a different dress two minutes later. On a musical note, Kimbra is insane. Just so, so incredibly talented. Her voice goes to extremes I could only dream of, yet it's so well controlled. Also, she works with the loop machine with such precision, laying down a dense foundation before layering the melody over the top. Words can not quite describe how incredible this young lady is. And when you're in a room with only a "few" other people (remember we're at The Spiegletent, and it's quite the tiny) it was something that I'm not going to forget for a long, long while.
I'm going to go out on a limb and say best gig of the year so far. Mmm. Yep.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Andy Bull & emma louise - 13 September 2011, The Spiegeltent
Andy Bull and emma louise
I's been a good five years since I'd been to the Spiegletent, the last time being Kate Miller-Heidke I'm guessing as part of the Brisbane Festival. Ans as soon as I walked in I remembered just what a beautiful thing the tent is. It's not just the tent itself that is beautiful, it's the whole atmosphere that's created. This is not like a gig at The Zoo, which, although is designed for live music, it's a very social place with a lot of ambient noise. Here, it's just the music. Both emma louise and Andy Bull played to complete silence. I didn't see any phone glows, nor anyone moving to get drinks. There are times and places for venues like this, and these two artists definitely deserve this type of respect every once in a while.
I know I was a bit harsh with emma louise at BIGSOUND, but i figured out what it was that was making me tick. It was the venue. She was not suited to a loud crowd where she is just a bit of background noise, even when people are paying to see her on stage there. She actually said it, "I've played a lot of pub gigs recently and you guys are really quiet. It's a little intimidating." Or something to that extent. Tonight, with the crowd who wanted to listen to, not just see, but actually listen she was stunning. Truly stunning. This is definitely the audience she deserves. Her voice was magical, twisting this way and that with the right amount of dexterity. And you know what? Even though I'd heard her not even a week ago, it was a totally new experience, with what sounded like new songs (even though I'd heard almost all of them previously). They had brand new life in this different setting, as you could actually hear the seep meanings she writes in the melodies and especially in the lyrics. I do apologies emma louise. You have completely turned my views around with this one. I'm converted.
Andy Bull is a completely different kettle of fish entirely to Miss emma louise. In response he her comments on how she staked him on myspace with no response, he joked what we as an audience already hate him. This theme is carried on throughout the set with much humor. And basically, he charms the pants of as all as he goes. Andy Bull is an interesting character in that his voice is just so damn high. I know he would get that a lot but still, it's unique and beautiful. He played a range of his older material, things that were more recent, and some things that he was trialing for the first time. He new songs 'Poison' was an absolutely phenomenal. Towards the end of the set, he welcomed the lovely Tara Simmons on stage for a rendition of 'Dog' which was stunning. He then welcomed Kane, a "Hungry Kid of Hungary" to the stage for his final songs. The thing about Andy Bull. You hear him on record and you like it, love it, however you feel. But then you hear it all live, and it's not just a reproduction of what he's put down on tape, it's a new take on a previously released song. That my friends, is the tell of greatness.
So, wow. Awesome gig. It's obvious the Spiegletent brings out the best in people. I am looking forward to coming back very very soon indeed.
I's been a good five years since I'd been to the Spiegletent, the last time being Kate Miller-Heidke I'm guessing as part of the Brisbane Festival. Ans as soon as I walked in I remembered just what a beautiful thing the tent is. It's not just the tent itself that is beautiful, it's the whole atmosphere that's created. This is not like a gig at The Zoo, which, although is designed for live music, it's a very social place with a lot of ambient noise. Here, it's just the music. Both emma louise and Andy Bull played to complete silence. I didn't see any phone glows, nor anyone moving to get drinks. There are times and places for venues like this, and these two artists definitely deserve this type of respect every once in a while.
I know I was a bit harsh with emma louise at BIGSOUND, but i figured out what it was that was making me tick. It was the venue. She was not suited to a loud crowd where she is just a bit of background noise, even when people are paying to see her on stage there. She actually said it, "I've played a lot of pub gigs recently and you guys are really quiet. It's a little intimidating." Or something to that extent. Tonight, with the crowd who wanted to listen to, not just see, but actually listen she was stunning. Truly stunning. This is definitely the audience she deserves. Her voice was magical, twisting this way and that with the right amount of dexterity. And you know what? Even though I'd heard her not even a week ago, it was a totally new experience, with what sounded like new songs (even though I'd heard almost all of them previously). They had brand new life in this different setting, as you could actually hear the seep meanings she writes in the melodies and especially in the lyrics. I do apologies emma louise. You have completely turned my views around with this one. I'm converted.
Andy Bull is a completely different kettle of fish entirely to Miss emma louise. In response he her comments on how she staked him on myspace with no response, he joked what we as an audience already hate him. This theme is carried on throughout the set with much humor. And basically, he charms the pants of as all as he goes. Andy Bull is an interesting character in that his voice is just so damn high. I know he would get that a lot but still, it's unique and beautiful. He played a range of his older material, things that were more recent, and some things that he was trialing for the first time. He new songs 'Poison' was an absolutely phenomenal. Towards the end of the set, he welcomed the lovely Tara Simmons on stage for a rendition of 'Dog' which was stunning. He then welcomed Kane, a "Hungry Kid of Hungary" to the stage for his final songs. The thing about Andy Bull. You hear him on record and you like it, love it, however you feel. But then you hear it all live, and it's not just a reproduction of what he's put down on tape, it's a new take on a previously released song. That my friends, is the tell of greatness.
So, wow. Awesome gig. It's obvious the Spiegletent brings out the best in people. I am looking forward to coming back very very soon indeed.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Mardi Lumsden and the Rising Seas - 9 September 2011, Brisbane Powerhouse
Mardi Lumsden and the Rising Seas
First, kudos to this amazing band for their residency at the Brisbane Powerhouse. It is such an amazing opportunity to play this venue every Friday for a month. And seriously, who wouldn't want to come to the unique beauty that is the Powerhouse for a drink after work on a Friday evening. Um... pick me!
I have always loved the genuine charm that this band flaunts without even trying. It's simply beautiful. During this residency Mardi explained that they are going to mix things up quite a bit. This show, they played with a full contingency of band members, however next week we were told it would just be Pennay on Banjo and melodica, Mardi on guitars from the regular line up, but they would be joined by a string quartet as well as a flugelhorn player. I am very curious to see this. I shall have to try and make it. But... tonight. They played a whole bunch of the songs that we know and love, as well as quite a few new ones. I am liking the new material that Mardi is putting out. It incorporates her unique style and band instrumentation, yet is moving in new directions also.
I do hope to make it to another Friday night show, this would be a very good thing indeed.
First, kudos to this amazing band for their residency at the Brisbane Powerhouse. It is such an amazing opportunity to play this venue every Friday for a month. And seriously, who wouldn't want to come to the unique beauty that is the Powerhouse for a drink after work on a Friday evening. Um... pick me!
I have always loved the genuine charm that this band flaunts without even trying. It's simply beautiful. During this residency Mardi explained that they are going to mix things up quite a bit. This show, they played with a full contingency of band members, however next week we were told it would just be Pennay on Banjo and melodica, Mardi on guitars from the regular line up, but they would be joined by a string quartet as well as a flugelhorn player. I am very curious to see this. I shall have to try and make it. But... tonight. They played a whole bunch of the songs that we know and love, as well as quite a few new ones. I am liking the new material that Mardi is putting out. It incorporates her unique style and band instrumentation, yet is moving in new directions also.
I do hope to make it to another Friday night show, this would be a very good thing indeed.
Monday, September 12, 2011
BIGSOUND Live - 8 September 2011, Fortitude Valley
Night 2 - The Jungle Giants, Jakarta, Owl Eyes, Jonathan Boulet, San Cisco, Tin Can Radio, Eagle & The Worm, Ball Park Music
And so we continue. This night was way worst for missing things I wanted to see. Andy Bull, Millions, Big Scary, Mosman Alder, Papa vs Pretty, Husky, Guineafowl. I wanted so much to go see all of these acts as well as the ones I saw, however, time. There just wasn't enough of it, especially if you wanted a half decent spot for acts like Eagle & The Worm and Ball Park Music (or just want to get through the door...)
The night once again began again at The Zoo, this time with The Jungle Giants. I'd only seen these guys once before and really quite like them, although I remember the chick in the band annoying me. I will say that they were pretty stellar. But again! The chick! What was she thinking. When you play guitar in a band on a stage it might make sense to wear pants or a dress with tights or something. Seriously, this girl was wearing a dress that would barely covers her ass in a normal situation, but add a guitar to this mix, it was just way to short. I bet the guys standing around me would have though it awesome, but seriously. Dress appropriately for the genre of music you are playing. If you're playing Indie music, (and I laugh at myself saying this, but) be an Indie! No one really wants to see a skank onstage. You might think I'm being harsh, but I just write what I see. Regardless, I do like this band, and really so want to hear more of what they have to offer. They put on a good show.
I ran off to Jakarta at Electric Playground next. And The more I go to the venue, the more I like it. Shame it has to be a whorehouse on a regular weekend. Anyway... Jakarta were really pretty rad. They had something that made them special, yet for the life of me I can't work out what it was. I suppose sometimes you find yourself liking something even in spite of yourself. I will definitely have to find out more about this Vancouver based band.
I ran out of this showcase in order to catch the beginning of Owl Eyes at The Zoo. And I walked in to a familiar songs. I won't lie, I was thinking, awesome, this should be good. But you know what? I could not stay. The frontwoman, Brooke Addamo was a nutcase. She was all over the show with what she was doing on stage. From the moment the next song started to when it ended she did not stop using her arms in a swimmers dance kind of fashion. Sometimes you actually need to stop moving like a fish, and stand and sing. Yes, yes, she was getting into the music the only way she knows how and such. But really. There's a line you can cross when it starts looking stupid. And so I departed feeling rather disappointed. I had heard such awesome things about that band, and I'm sure on record they are awesome, but live, not so much.
I then made my way to The Aviary to catch a glimpse of the renown Jonathan Boulet. After hearing his song 'A Community Service Announcement' as single of the week on iTunes I was hooked. But when I got his album I could never really get into it. This has since changed. His set was phenomenal! Every song had it's place in the set and flowed smoothly from one to the next. It takes not only a skilled musician to plan a successful set list, but also a clever one. One that can work it so it plays the crowd right into their hands. Master Boulet did indeed take us on the journey that he had planned for us, and it worked a treat. After now hearing a whole bunch of his songs live, I come back to the record and find myself listening to it on repeat. I find it fascinating how a live show can either make or break an artist in the personal opinion of the crowd members. And when he eventually play 'A Community Service Announcement' the crowd did go a little more wild. It's still by far his best song.
After a trek down a dark and sightly creepy alleyway I found the Woodland Bar, where San Cisco were already playing. Again the first hearing of this band came courtesy of iTunes single of the week. And these guys are pretty serious stuff! I did enjoy them quite immensely. They sometime get a little generic in their Indie sound, but still I do like a bit of generic Indie every now and again. The thing they do have going for them, is their girl drummer. She was awesome! I do like it when a chick plays drums. Also she was the only girl in the band. This makes it all the more awesome. My thoughts are I will probably not see them the Perth lads again for some time, due to them coming from Perth and all.
On my way back to Mosman Alder at the Aviery, I discovered a little BIGSOUND unofficial showcase at The Press Club which at that moment in time happened to have Tin Can Radio playing. And I just happen to like these lads quite a bit, so tossed up my options... Mosman Alder (who I will see next week supporting Kimbra) or pop in to see Tin Can Radio who I haven't seen in months. Guess who won. Even although I could only stay for four songs this band made me grin like I hadn't grinned most of the night. A little unexpected, but very, very welcome. This band create such a great atmosphere when they play. It makes you want to get up and move. EVERY TIME! Without fail. That! Is what I love about this band. However you're feeling, they make you feel better. This is what music should do.
I ended up getting an ok spot for Eagle & The Worm at The Zoo, due to the fact that I stayed a little longer than I planned to at Tin Can Radio. I've loved this band since the first time I saw them, but they annoyed the shit out of me tonight. BIGSOUND is an even where the sets are ridiculously short. You only have half an hour to show the best you have in you right? The frontman of this band just kept yakking on and on and on. And he was yakking on about trying not to take up too much time because of short sets! What the! And to top it all off, they finished a couple of minuted early... They so could have easily played an extra song, maybe two, if they hadn't talked so much between songs. But maybe this is me being greedy. I do like the guitarist specially designed slide guitar. It's pretty cool to watch him play it also.
I decided to intentionally miss Guineafowl (who I was dying to see) in order to get a good spot for Ball Park Music back at Woodland Bar. This decision turned out to be the right one, as it was already packed when I got there, and I heard that it filled to capacity not long after. It was an absolute treat to witness these kids on stage. They have come such a long way in such a short period of time. And they're at the stage where they can begin their set with iFly rather than end with it. That's a good sign. This showcase was another example of just how important a perfect set list can be. They moved from one song to the next seamlessly, and brought the entire crowd with them. 'It's Nice to Be Alive' brought the house down. At one stage the band stopped, (they do do this on a regular basis with iFly now with this song also) and the entire crowd just kept going singing what was meant to come next. Master Cromack, the frontman looked a little stunned for a millisecond before gathering his thoughts. Right now however, 'Literally Baby' is my favourite song. It's genius. Nothing less. For me, I couldn't imagine ending my BIGSOUND experience on something any better.
And so that brings to a close the epic two days that was BIGSOUND Live. A lot of awesomeness, a little disappointment, and a whole lot of lovin' for Jinja Safari, Jonathan Boulet and Ball Park Music. Nuff said.
And so we continue. This night was way worst for missing things I wanted to see. Andy Bull, Millions, Big Scary, Mosman Alder, Papa vs Pretty, Husky, Guineafowl. I wanted so much to go see all of these acts as well as the ones I saw, however, time. There just wasn't enough of it, especially if you wanted a half decent spot for acts like Eagle & The Worm and Ball Park Music (or just want to get through the door...)
The night once again began again at The Zoo, this time with The Jungle Giants. I'd only seen these guys once before and really quite like them, although I remember the chick in the band annoying me. I will say that they were pretty stellar. But again! The chick! What was she thinking. When you play guitar in a band on a stage it might make sense to wear pants or a dress with tights or something. Seriously, this girl was wearing a dress that would barely covers her ass in a normal situation, but add a guitar to this mix, it was just way to short. I bet the guys standing around me would have though it awesome, but seriously. Dress appropriately for the genre of music you are playing. If you're playing Indie music, (and I laugh at myself saying this, but) be an Indie! No one really wants to see a skank onstage. You might think I'm being harsh, but I just write what I see. Regardless, I do like this band, and really so want to hear more of what they have to offer. They put on a good show.
I ran off to Jakarta at Electric Playground next. And The more I go to the venue, the more I like it. Shame it has to be a whorehouse on a regular weekend. Anyway... Jakarta were really pretty rad. They had something that made them special, yet for the life of me I can't work out what it was. I suppose sometimes you find yourself liking something even in spite of yourself. I will definitely have to find out more about this Vancouver based band.
I ran out of this showcase in order to catch the beginning of Owl Eyes at The Zoo. And I walked in to a familiar songs. I won't lie, I was thinking, awesome, this should be good. But you know what? I could not stay. The frontwoman, Brooke Addamo was a nutcase. She was all over the show with what she was doing on stage. From the moment the next song started to when it ended she did not stop using her arms in a swimmers dance kind of fashion. Sometimes you actually need to stop moving like a fish, and stand and sing. Yes, yes, she was getting into the music the only way she knows how and such. But really. There's a line you can cross when it starts looking stupid. And so I departed feeling rather disappointed. I had heard such awesome things about that band, and I'm sure on record they are awesome, but live, not so much.
I then made my way to The Aviary to catch a glimpse of the renown Jonathan Boulet. After hearing his song 'A Community Service Announcement' as single of the week on iTunes I was hooked. But when I got his album I could never really get into it. This has since changed. His set was phenomenal! Every song had it's place in the set and flowed smoothly from one to the next. It takes not only a skilled musician to plan a successful set list, but also a clever one. One that can work it so it plays the crowd right into their hands. Master Boulet did indeed take us on the journey that he had planned for us, and it worked a treat. After now hearing a whole bunch of his songs live, I come back to the record and find myself listening to it on repeat. I find it fascinating how a live show can either make or break an artist in the personal opinion of the crowd members. And when he eventually play 'A Community Service Announcement' the crowd did go a little more wild. It's still by far his best song.
After a trek down a dark and sightly creepy alleyway I found the Woodland Bar, where San Cisco were already playing. Again the first hearing of this band came courtesy of iTunes single of the week. And these guys are pretty serious stuff! I did enjoy them quite immensely. They sometime get a little generic in their Indie sound, but still I do like a bit of generic Indie every now and again. The thing they do have going for them, is their girl drummer. She was awesome! I do like it when a chick plays drums. Also she was the only girl in the band. This makes it all the more awesome. My thoughts are I will probably not see them the Perth lads again for some time, due to them coming from Perth and all.
On my way back to Mosman Alder at the Aviery, I discovered a little BIGSOUND unofficial showcase at The Press Club which at that moment in time happened to have Tin Can Radio playing. And I just happen to like these lads quite a bit, so tossed up my options... Mosman Alder (who I will see next week supporting Kimbra) or pop in to see Tin Can Radio who I haven't seen in months. Guess who won. Even although I could only stay for four songs this band made me grin like I hadn't grinned most of the night. A little unexpected, but very, very welcome. This band create such a great atmosphere when they play. It makes you want to get up and move. EVERY TIME! Without fail. That! Is what I love about this band. However you're feeling, they make you feel better. This is what music should do.
I ended up getting an ok spot for Eagle & The Worm at The Zoo, due to the fact that I stayed a little longer than I planned to at Tin Can Radio. I've loved this band since the first time I saw them, but they annoyed the shit out of me tonight. BIGSOUND is an even where the sets are ridiculously short. You only have half an hour to show the best you have in you right? The frontman of this band just kept yakking on and on and on. And he was yakking on about trying not to take up too much time because of short sets! What the! And to top it all off, they finished a couple of minuted early... They so could have easily played an extra song, maybe two, if they hadn't talked so much between songs. But maybe this is me being greedy. I do like the guitarist specially designed slide guitar. It's pretty cool to watch him play it also.
I decided to intentionally miss Guineafowl (who I was dying to see) in order to get a good spot for Ball Park Music back at Woodland Bar. This decision turned out to be the right one, as it was already packed when I got there, and I heard that it filled to capacity not long after. It was an absolute treat to witness these kids on stage. They have come such a long way in such a short period of time. And they're at the stage where they can begin their set with iFly rather than end with it. That's a good sign. This showcase was another example of just how important a perfect set list can be. They moved from one song to the next seamlessly, and brought the entire crowd with them. 'It's Nice to Be Alive' brought the house down. At one stage the band stopped, (they do do this on a regular basis with iFly now with this song also) and the entire crowd just kept going singing what was meant to come next. Master Cromack, the frontman looked a little stunned for a millisecond before gathering his thoughts. Right now however, 'Literally Baby' is my favourite song. It's genius. Nothing less. For me, I couldn't imagine ending my BIGSOUND experience on something any better.
And so that brings to a close the epic two days that was BIGSOUND Live. A lot of awesomeness, a little disappointment, and a whole lot of lovin' for Jinja Safari, Jonathan Boulet and Ball Park Music. Nuff said.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
BIGSOUND Live - 7 September 2011, Fortitude Valley
Night 1 - Inland Sea, Gossling, Tiny Ruins, Boy in a Box, emma louise, The Medics, The Chemist, Jinja Safari, The Paper Scissors, Velociraptor
BIGSOUND. 8 venues. 30 minute sets. 20 minute turnaround. And it's back with a vengeance for another year, trying to be bigger, better and louder then the years gone by. The line up itself was truly stunning, and with so many bands that I wanted to see, it was a mission to try and fit them all in. I totalled 18 sets over two nights. That's personal improvement over last years effort. A had planned at least 4 more on top of that, but you know event such as this. It doesn't always go according to plan. My overall plan was to see those that I loved, but to try an experience as many new bands as possible also. Yes, yes, this is only a snapshot of what's on offer from these talented people, but if it isn't the best they have to offer then there's something wrong!
First up for my night was the orchestra that is Inland Sea showcasing The Zoo. With 10 members in the band, seven of who are frontline, it baffles me as to how this band can function. Having seen them a couple of times now, I have come to understand that every member does have their own role and has their own opportunity to stand out. The strings for example are not just accompanying instruments like in other bands, but actually carry the melodies through different pieces. The lead vocals are also shared around the different members of the group which provides an interesting variety between the songs. I do enjoy what these guys have to offer, it is something completely different to bands of a smaller size, just because of the different combinations of instruments they can utilise.
A short walk away was Gossling at the Black Bear Lodge. This particular showcase for me was a bit of a chance due to the fact that I hadn't heard of her before. However, this chance was more than worth the risk. She was simply stunning - just a young woman and her piano Her voice is to date the squeakiest sounding thing I have ever heard, yet, it was beautiful. As I walked up the stairs of the venue she was already singing, and i believed this to be just her singing voice, but no, this is her normal voice also. I won't lie, it was a little surprising. Her songs were all so different yet unified under her niche. I really do want to find her EPs and listen to some more of what I've heard, because I would love to delve deeper into what she has to offer.
I took another chance with Tiny Ruins, another female singer songwriter at Ric's Bar, and you know what? After hearing Gossling not two minutes before it was a complete let down. I'm sure she is wonderful in her own right, but after hearing something so unique and beautiful, she was lacking something special, something that made you go WOW. And so I left her play to Ric's Bar, and headed off to the Bakery Land Stage to catch the end Boy in an Box. I'd hear of these guys, and one of their songs, however, not much else. So it was great to be able to see them for the first time, and come away knowing straight away that I wanted to hear more. They had presence, they had good songs, and to top it all off, they had matching white shirts. Cute.
emma lousie is an interesting character. She stormed into he music scene earlier this year and since then has taken a firm standing with very little effort. Whatever she does, she is loved and she has a blue parrot which goes almost everywhere with her. I like what she does and what she has to offer, but at the same time, I don't quite get all the hype. She is brilliant, don't get me wrong, but I can't put my finger on it. 'Jungle' is a stellar song and I love that every song has a story behind it. She is a wonderfully talented songwriter, maybe it's just they all sound a little similar sometimes? I don't know. Maybe I'm just being harsh. Regardless, her performance on stage at The Zoo brought a massive crowd, and she did not disappoint them at all. For me, this is the first time I had seen the beautiful Hannah Shepherd join her in her entourage, and it made a lovely difference to the texture in her live sound.
The first time I saw The Medics was this time last year, and I remember being impressed with the diversity that they brought to the stage. Tonight's showcase at the Bakery Lane Stage was no different. Having looked them up a little more, and become more familiar with their work, it was brilliant to hear a amazing rendition of 'Joseph', which is easily my favourite song of theirs. With these guys maybe its a case of the more you listen to something, the more you like it. The different vocal tones colours between the main vocalist, and the drummer was an interesting contrast that works in the bands favour. This showcase made me want to scroll down in my music library and rediscover what else this band has to offer! This is a good thing.
A new addition to BIGSOUND this year was the inclusion of Electric Playground as a playing venue. I'd never been to this place before, and was a little sceptical as to how it was going to go as a live music venue, but you know what? It's pretty rad! And to see The Chemist here was a wondrous things. I love this band to pieces! They are pretty freaking talented. I also love what they do as a band. It's all a bit different, for example the way the frontman plays he guitar. At one point her was playing a riff that included the strumming of the strings above the neck of the guitar, near the pegs to create one of the notes. Just watching this band gives a whole new meaning to live music. You can listen to this band on record and have no idea of the intricacies of that is involved in playing the particular song. I also dig the old school effects mic that is used. It creates such a unique sound that we've all come to know and love about this band.
Making a dash back to The Zoo, I was only a tiny bit late for the start of Jinja Safari. I still managed to get a good spot for the set though which I was the best things that happened all night. Again with this band, I know and love them on record, but had not heard them live. And, oh my. The are freakingsweet! I don't know of any other band that not only uses a keytar, but also a sitar! Who uses a real sitar in live performances nowadays! Jinja Safari that's who! These hippies were easily the highlight of my night making me grin like a maniac for the entire set. For me? That is rare. More often than I'd like to admit, I'm the kind of person to get distracted during a set and check my phone, but not with this band. This is probably the only set apart form Gossling who managed to achieve this. 'Peter Pan' for me is a big winner for this band. It is an amazing song that captures everthing this band is about. Wow. That's all.
I decided to head back the the Black Bear Lodge to catch a bit of The Paper Scissors but you know what? I just couldn't stay. I was on such a high from Jinja Safari that I was in need of something that would keep that vibe going. Unfortunately that was not this band at that point in their set. So I decided to try Velociraptor, but as soon as I walked into Electric Playground it was overflowing with people, and I just didn't want to deal with that.
So as it turned out, Jinja Safari was the last real set in my night. And what a night it was. So much amazing music. So much damage to my poor ears. So much sleep lost. But you know what? So totoally worth it. One of the best musical experiences to date. And the best part? It all started again at 8pm the next night. Bring it on!
BIGSOUND. 8 venues. 30 minute sets. 20 minute turnaround. And it's back with a vengeance for another year, trying to be bigger, better and louder then the years gone by. The line up itself was truly stunning, and with so many bands that I wanted to see, it was a mission to try and fit them all in. I totalled 18 sets over two nights. That's personal improvement over last years effort. A had planned at least 4 more on top of that, but you know event such as this. It doesn't always go according to plan. My overall plan was to see those that I loved, but to try an experience as many new bands as possible also. Yes, yes, this is only a snapshot of what's on offer from these talented people, but if it isn't the best they have to offer then there's something wrong!
First up for my night was the orchestra that is Inland Sea showcasing The Zoo. With 10 members in the band, seven of who are frontline, it baffles me as to how this band can function. Having seen them a couple of times now, I have come to understand that every member does have their own role and has their own opportunity to stand out. The strings for example are not just accompanying instruments like in other bands, but actually carry the melodies through different pieces. The lead vocals are also shared around the different members of the group which provides an interesting variety between the songs. I do enjoy what these guys have to offer, it is something completely different to bands of a smaller size, just because of the different combinations of instruments they can utilise.
A short walk away was Gossling at the Black Bear Lodge. This particular showcase for me was a bit of a chance due to the fact that I hadn't heard of her before. However, this chance was more than worth the risk. She was simply stunning - just a young woman and her piano Her voice is to date the squeakiest sounding thing I have ever heard, yet, it was beautiful. As I walked up the stairs of the venue she was already singing, and i believed this to be just her singing voice, but no, this is her normal voice also. I won't lie, it was a little surprising. Her songs were all so different yet unified under her niche. I really do want to find her EPs and listen to some more of what I've heard, because I would love to delve deeper into what she has to offer.
I took another chance with Tiny Ruins, another female singer songwriter at Ric's Bar, and you know what? After hearing Gossling not two minutes before it was a complete let down. I'm sure she is wonderful in her own right, but after hearing something so unique and beautiful, she was lacking something special, something that made you go WOW. And so I left her play to Ric's Bar, and headed off to the Bakery Land Stage to catch the end Boy in an Box. I'd hear of these guys, and one of their songs, however, not much else. So it was great to be able to see them for the first time, and come away knowing straight away that I wanted to hear more. They had presence, they had good songs, and to top it all off, they had matching white shirts. Cute.
emma lousie is an interesting character. She stormed into he music scene earlier this year and since then has taken a firm standing with very little effort. Whatever she does, she is loved and she has a blue parrot which goes almost everywhere with her. I like what she does and what she has to offer, but at the same time, I don't quite get all the hype. She is brilliant, don't get me wrong, but I can't put my finger on it. 'Jungle' is a stellar song and I love that every song has a story behind it. She is a wonderfully talented songwriter, maybe it's just they all sound a little similar sometimes? I don't know. Maybe I'm just being harsh. Regardless, her performance on stage at The Zoo brought a massive crowd, and she did not disappoint them at all. For me, this is the first time I had seen the beautiful Hannah Shepherd join her in her entourage, and it made a lovely difference to the texture in her live sound.
The first time I saw The Medics was this time last year, and I remember being impressed with the diversity that they brought to the stage. Tonight's showcase at the Bakery Lane Stage was no different. Having looked them up a little more, and become more familiar with their work, it was brilliant to hear a amazing rendition of 'Joseph', which is easily my favourite song of theirs. With these guys maybe its a case of the more you listen to something, the more you like it. The different vocal tones colours between the main vocalist, and the drummer was an interesting contrast that works in the bands favour. This showcase made me want to scroll down in my music library and rediscover what else this band has to offer! This is a good thing.
A new addition to BIGSOUND this year was the inclusion of Electric Playground as a playing venue. I'd never been to this place before, and was a little sceptical as to how it was going to go as a live music venue, but you know what? It's pretty rad! And to see The Chemist here was a wondrous things. I love this band to pieces! They are pretty freaking talented. I also love what they do as a band. It's all a bit different, for example the way the frontman plays he guitar. At one point her was playing a riff that included the strumming of the strings above the neck of the guitar, near the pegs to create one of the notes. Just watching this band gives a whole new meaning to live music. You can listen to this band on record and have no idea of the intricacies of that is involved in playing the particular song. I also dig the old school effects mic that is used. It creates such a unique sound that we've all come to know and love about this band.
Making a dash back to The Zoo, I was only a tiny bit late for the start of Jinja Safari. I still managed to get a good spot for the set though which I was the best things that happened all night. Again with this band, I know and love them on record, but had not heard them live. And, oh my. The are freakingsweet! I don't know of any other band that not only uses a keytar, but also a sitar! Who uses a real sitar in live performances nowadays! Jinja Safari that's who! These hippies were easily the highlight of my night making me grin like a maniac for the entire set. For me? That is rare. More often than I'd like to admit, I'm the kind of person to get distracted during a set and check my phone, but not with this band. This is probably the only set apart form Gossling who managed to achieve this. 'Peter Pan' for me is a big winner for this band. It is an amazing song that captures everthing this band is about. Wow. That's all.
I decided to head back the the Black Bear Lodge to catch a bit of The Paper Scissors but you know what? I just couldn't stay. I was on such a high from Jinja Safari that I was in need of something that would keep that vibe going. Unfortunately that was not this band at that point in their set. So I decided to try Velociraptor, but as soon as I walked into Electric Playground it was overflowing with people, and I just didn't want to deal with that.
So as it turned out, Jinja Safari was the last real set in my night. And what a night it was. So much amazing music. So much damage to my poor ears. So much sleep lost. But you know what? So totoally worth it. One of the best musical experiences to date. And the best part? It all started again at 8pm the next night. Bring it on!
Mucho-Bravado BIGSOUND Warm-Up - 6 September 2011, Black Bear Lodge
w/ Hungry kids of Hungary, Ball Park Music, Charlie Mayfair, Spring Skier, City Riots
Black Bear Lodge, the new Troubadour. It felt so good to be back, and yet it was a very strange sensation. It was the same but completely different. With the whole back office section being opened up, it gives the room a much bigger feel, which is a good thing. And there's now actually a proper bar, instead of a desk you could fit like two people in front of. This is also a good thing. They have kept some of the wall decors that were Troubadour favorite, and added a whole bunch that are completely new. It has a completely different feel now. But! The best thing they've done? More seating. It think this is what they were going tof, more of a lounge bar, rather than just a music venue. I like it, I think...
Despite all the strangeness of the "new" venue, it was great to see some stripped down music from Ball Park Music, and Hungry Kids of Hungary. I was disappointed to have missed Charlie Mayfair, and Spring Skier also though. This is now a typical gig you would see at Black Bear Lodge I understand. More stripped back performances, rather than full set ups. Also, this is apparently the first time since opening that they've used the big stage. Usually music is now played at the opposite end to where the old Troubadour stage was. Ball Park's Sam Cromack and Jen Boyce played stripped down versions of all the favourite tunes, but for me it was 'Glass Jar' that really hit the spot. Having heard the demo for this song months ago, it was great to see them light up the stage with it's brilliance. I am also excited to see what they've done with it on their album. In this setting though, it was perfect. Simply stunning. Even though the duo only played a handful of songs, they really did show us where Ball Park Music comes from.
The boys from Hungry Kids of Hungary were up next with their small snatch of songs. In contrast to the Ball Park Music duo, all the boys from the band made their way onto stage as per normal, with the only difference being the radically reduced kit size. I am loving the new material coming from these guys. 'Up for Air' is certainly one to listen out for. The boys really do have something special. Even in an "acoustic" setting such as this, they put on one heck of a show, drawing the crowd into the world of sound that is created.
It really was good to be back, not only at the old Troubadour, but also back in general to the world of live music. It's been a while. And with an amazing event like this as a warm-up to BIGSOUND it looks like it's going to be a crazy couple of days filled with some kick-ass music.
Black Bear Lodge, the new Troubadour. It felt so good to be back, and yet it was a very strange sensation. It was the same but completely different. With the whole back office section being opened up, it gives the room a much bigger feel, which is a good thing. And there's now actually a proper bar, instead of a desk you could fit like two people in front of. This is also a good thing. They have kept some of the wall decors that were Troubadour favorite, and added a whole bunch that are completely new. It has a completely different feel now. But! The best thing they've done? More seating. It think this is what they were going tof, more of a lounge bar, rather than just a music venue. I like it, I think...
Despite all the strangeness of the "new" venue, it was great to see some stripped down music from Ball Park Music, and Hungry Kids of Hungary. I was disappointed to have missed Charlie Mayfair, and Spring Skier also though. This is now a typical gig you would see at Black Bear Lodge I understand. More stripped back performances, rather than full set ups. Also, this is apparently the first time since opening that they've used the big stage. Usually music is now played at the opposite end to where the old Troubadour stage was. Ball Park's Sam Cromack and Jen Boyce played stripped down versions of all the favourite tunes, but for me it was 'Glass Jar' that really hit the spot. Having heard the demo for this song months ago, it was great to see them light up the stage with it's brilliance. I am also excited to see what they've done with it on their album. In this setting though, it was perfect. Simply stunning. Even though the duo only played a handful of songs, they really did show us where Ball Park Music comes from.
The boys from Hungry Kids of Hungary were up next with their small snatch of songs. In contrast to the Ball Park Music duo, all the boys from the band made their way onto stage as per normal, with the only difference being the radically reduced kit size. I am loving the new material coming from these guys. 'Up for Air' is certainly one to listen out for. The boys really do have something special. Even in an "acoustic" setting such as this, they put on one heck of a show, drawing the crowd into the world of sound that is created.
It really was good to be back, not only at the old Troubadour, but also back in general to the world of live music. It's been a while. And with an amazing event like this as a warm-up to BIGSOUND it looks like it's going to be a crazy couple of days filled with some kick-ass music.
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