w/ Montpelier, The Trouble with Templeton
In my 'haste' not to be early, I actually ended up being late and missing the entirety of The Trouble with Templeton. T'was such a shame, coz apparently they were pretty freaking good. Regardless, a gig with both Montpelier and Husky is an ok gig by me. Also, it was nice to be back at the Beetle Bar. A strange kind of a place that apparently holds 450 people... This I don't quite believe, but still, quite a nice place with a balcony and everything. It is however the standard in backpackers pubs, and unfortunately smells the part as well. Ok, now I'm just being harsh. The place is pretty rad, and has plenty of character. And also plenty of beetles decorating the walls, this is what makes it rad.
Moving on. Montpelier. It's been quite a while, and it's nice to see that the lads have lost none of their charm, but unfortunately, have not gained any interesting visuals while their on stage... This saddens me. They are kind of all kinds of brilliant, and when looking at them on stage, all you see is four heads down pulsing to the beat, engrossed in the music. Which is awesome, but there need to be a balance between that, and playing that connects with the crowd. Their songs though are just as stellar as they have always been. And I think I can finally conclude after numerous live performances and a recording, that the lyrics of 'Last Boat' go "Last boat out to see her" not "sea yeah". But you know what, I could still be wrong... Their new music is much the same kind of style as what they have been previously giving us, but I am stoked by this, and can't wait to hear it on record.
And Husky. Where do I even start with this band. They are kinds of incredible. Husky himself is a tiny red headed man, who is a little vertically challenged. This does not stop him from belting out a kick-ass ballad. We then move to the keys player Gideon. There are not too many bands that I know of who, mid set, will all sit down while the keys player plays a classical inspired number as an introduction to a song. I was blown away. It was beautiful, and straight after, right back into what they do best as a band. Their singles 'History's Door' and 'Hundred Dollar Suit' are definitely the songs that stand out, but that doesn't make their other songs any less brilliant. To top off their set, they performed a rendition of The Beatles' 'What Goes On', but with a slight twist. No mics, no amplification, just three voices, a guitar, some bells, and a shaker. I happened to be standing in the second row for this set, and as we all made room for them to come stand in the crowd, I ended up standing in the front, right next to them. And oh my, this was one of the single greatest musical moments I've ever experienced. They're harmonies were as tight as could be, and it was just so slick. I don't think I can adequately describe what an amazing experience this was. And you know what? In any venue apart from the Beetle Bar, this number probably wouldn't have worked. But being a long narrow venue with the balcony right above worked in Husky's favour.
One thing I have to add. Both Monpelier and Husky create perfect harmonies within their respective groups. There are bands that sing harmonies, and do it adequately, due to the fact that the guitarist probably isn't a singer, and then there are bands that have singers playing instruments. And what a difference that makes to the vocals. That's all I shall say, apart from the fact that this gig, and especially Husky, was something else.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Track and Field - 4 June 2011, The Old Museum
Last Dinosaurs, Ball Park Music, The Belligerents, The Jungle Giants
This was a gig that I wasn't going to go to. But you know what, I would have missed something truly special had I not gone, as it was something more. Great venue, great DJs and stellar bands!
First on were The Jungle Giants. I like what they have got going on here. A convergence of pop and something a little different and special. There's something, however, that I really don't get. They have a chick in their band playing guitar. I get that, but she didn't fit the rest of the portrait that the rest of the band were painting. They were all "rocking out" shall we say, and she was passively playing along. No doubt she's an amazing player, but sometimes you have to let your hair down as it were. Apart from that, I really liked. And I want to hear more. A lot more. Where do I get more!
The Belligerents are a bit of an enigma to me. I can't decide whether I love them or am indifferent. Two extremes, I know, but I can't decide. In one context, their songs all sound pretty much alike, however in another context, they're unique and intricate. Forgive me for being so indecisive. Regardless, they are an entertaining bunch of blokes, and that is one thing I do endorse.
Now, it's been a while, but I think I remember the sound of Ball Park Music. Aren't they the ones who sing about fucking loving someone? In all seriousness though, Ball Park Music are something of another caliber. From song one, they called Rich People Stupid, before moving on to saying it's Nice To Be Alive! Seriously guys, what do you want! Ok, seriousness. This band, especially their frontman, Sam Cromack have so much life and spirit in them it REEKS! And then spills into everyone in the room. This band have risen to such great heights since last I saw them, it's stupid. I believe they are going to have greatness thrust upon them, if they already haven't. One thing though, Paul wasn't up to his usual antics and is now a sitting keyboard player? When did that happen!
Finally, The Last Dinosaurs. They had big act to follow, and you know what, despite all the hipsters in the room, there was a certain vibe lacking from their set. It's been a good nine months since I saw these guys last, and I know they're going to have new tunes, but really in listening to them, their new songs did nothing for me. 'Honolulu' is still the hit, but there's nothing else that stood out... Is that a bad thing from a band that is so apparently liked? Also, have they got anything new out yet? Maybe they do, maybe they don't, but regardless of my ignorance, it hasn't really been that widely publicised. Forgive me if I am wrong. In saying all of that, they do what they do well, and I truly do like.
To top the night off, Dean from the Hungry Kids of Hungary played a DJ set, and you know what? It was all kinds of awesome. He could do no wrong, and had the whole place dancing up a storm until the Old Museum staff kicked everyone out... Such a shame. Regardless, the whole night was a stunning display of musical talent and opportunity. And hears hoping the next "Track and Field" in November will be just as wondrous.
This was a gig that I wasn't going to go to. But you know what, I would have missed something truly special had I not gone, as it was something more. Great venue, great DJs and stellar bands!
First on were The Jungle Giants. I like what they have got going on here. A convergence of pop and something a little different and special. There's something, however, that I really don't get. They have a chick in their band playing guitar. I get that, but she didn't fit the rest of the portrait that the rest of the band were painting. They were all "rocking out" shall we say, and she was passively playing along. No doubt she's an amazing player, but sometimes you have to let your hair down as it were. Apart from that, I really liked. And I want to hear more. A lot more. Where do I get more!
The Belligerents are a bit of an enigma to me. I can't decide whether I love them or am indifferent. Two extremes, I know, but I can't decide. In one context, their songs all sound pretty much alike, however in another context, they're unique and intricate. Forgive me for being so indecisive. Regardless, they are an entertaining bunch of blokes, and that is one thing I do endorse.
Now, it's been a while, but I think I remember the sound of Ball Park Music. Aren't they the ones who sing about fucking loving someone? In all seriousness though, Ball Park Music are something of another caliber. From song one, they called Rich People Stupid, before moving on to saying it's Nice To Be Alive! Seriously guys, what do you want! Ok, seriousness. This band, especially their frontman, Sam Cromack have so much life and spirit in them it REEKS! And then spills into everyone in the room. This band have risen to such great heights since last I saw them, it's stupid. I believe they are going to have greatness thrust upon them, if they already haven't. One thing though, Paul wasn't up to his usual antics and is now a sitting keyboard player? When did that happen!
Finally, The Last Dinosaurs. They had big act to follow, and you know what, despite all the hipsters in the room, there was a certain vibe lacking from their set. It's been a good nine months since I saw these guys last, and I know they're going to have new tunes, but really in listening to them, their new songs did nothing for me. 'Honolulu' is still the hit, but there's nothing else that stood out... Is that a bad thing from a band that is so apparently liked? Also, have they got anything new out yet? Maybe they do, maybe they don't, but regardless of my ignorance, it hasn't really been that widely publicised. Forgive me if I am wrong. In saying all of that, they do what they do well, and I truly do like.
To top the night off, Dean from the Hungry Kids of Hungary played a DJ set, and you know what? It was all kinds of awesome. He could do no wrong, and had the whole place dancing up a storm until the Old Museum staff kicked everyone out... Such a shame. Regardless, the whole night was a stunning display of musical talent and opportunity. And hears hoping the next "Track and Field" in November will be just as wondrous.
Hungry Kids of Hungary - 28 May 2011, The HiFi
w/ The Chemist, Andy Bull, Daniel Lee Kendall
This is one of the gigs where the supporting acts together themselves would make a stellar lineup, and would draw a rather nice crowd. But, throw in one of Brisbane, no Australia's finest up and comings in the Hungry Kids of Hungary and you have yourself a line up that won't come around again in a hurry.
I was so disappointed to miss most of Daniel Lee Kendall's set tonight. When they say doors at 8, you generally thing that getting there right on 8.30 will see you in time for the first act, but alas, he was most of the way through his set. That'll learns me. However, I did catch his single 'Lost in the Moment' and that's pretty much the reason why I love this guy. His other songs are awesome acoustic numbers that really are gorgeous, and I wish I'd been early enough to hear some more of these gems. Sigh, next time.
Next up was the stupidly talented Andy Bull, and when I say stupidly talented, I really mean it. Everything about him screams pizzazz. His voice it so deep in the complete opposite meaning of the word, yet, that's what I find myself thinking as I watch and listen to him perform. He tonight is performing with his band, which is something I have not experienced. The first and only time I have seen him was at the Troubadour (RIP) as a solo gig. This was something more. His band filled out everything that may or may not have been missing and just made it something special. We heard also from Tara Simmons on the track 'Dog' which was a little exquisite, but, and I won't lie, I was a little disappointed not to hear 'Last Waltz' in which the Hungry Kids feature. Regardless, t'was still an incredible set.
The Chemist followed on from Master Bull, and pretty much rocked. The only thing? Sound was CRAP! The HiFi is a hard venue to get right sound wise, so I've been told, and they really didn't sound all that great at all! Too much bass and drums, and not much anything else. A tad disappointing, but you know what? I love this band too much to let that get me down. I do love when they do the loops with 'End of July'. It's rad. They've got a couple of new ones since the last time I heard them, and I like! Can't wait to get another listen to them sometime soon hopefully. I will just also add, that the fact that they have a Piano Accordion in their band just makes them all that much cooler.
It's been a while since I've seen the Hungry Kids. They've done a whole tour, been overseas, and done another tour in which this is the final date. And you know what? They're in a whole different ball park then they were last time I saw them at the beginning of that previous tour. Remy now fits into the band like an old hand, and they just look so good. And sound, well Andy Troy did a sensational job, and made them sound quite the amazing. They opened with a new-y, and it was pretty awesome. I like where they're going with things. Also! They played 'Last Waltz' with Andy Bull on lead! (as well as all their awesome music) But I am quite partial song. I do like that they closed with my favorite this time around 'Let You Down'. And then really finished with 'Set it Right'. Nice set boys.
So. Wow. T'was a good night of brilliant music. Mmm...
This is one of the gigs where the supporting acts together themselves would make a stellar lineup, and would draw a rather nice crowd. But, throw in one of Brisbane, no Australia's finest up and comings in the Hungry Kids of Hungary and you have yourself a line up that won't come around again in a hurry.
I was so disappointed to miss most of Daniel Lee Kendall's set tonight. When they say doors at 8, you generally thing that getting there right on 8.30 will see you in time for the first act, but alas, he was most of the way through his set. That'll learns me. However, I did catch his single 'Lost in the Moment' and that's pretty much the reason why I love this guy. His other songs are awesome acoustic numbers that really are gorgeous, and I wish I'd been early enough to hear some more of these gems. Sigh, next time.
Next up was the stupidly talented Andy Bull, and when I say stupidly talented, I really mean it. Everything about him screams pizzazz. His voice it so deep in the complete opposite meaning of the word, yet, that's what I find myself thinking as I watch and listen to him perform. He tonight is performing with his band, which is something I have not experienced. The first and only time I have seen him was at the Troubadour (RIP) as a solo gig. This was something more. His band filled out everything that may or may not have been missing and just made it something special. We heard also from Tara Simmons on the track 'Dog' which was a little exquisite, but, and I won't lie, I was a little disappointed not to hear 'Last Waltz' in which the Hungry Kids feature. Regardless, t'was still an incredible set.
The Chemist followed on from Master Bull, and pretty much rocked. The only thing? Sound was CRAP! The HiFi is a hard venue to get right sound wise, so I've been told, and they really didn't sound all that great at all! Too much bass and drums, and not much anything else. A tad disappointing, but you know what? I love this band too much to let that get me down. I do love when they do the loops with 'End of July'. It's rad. They've got a couple of new ones since the last time I heard them, and I like! Can't wait to get another listen to them sometime soon hopefully. I will just also add, that the fact that they have a Piano Accordion in their band just makes them all that much cooler.
It's been a while since I've seen the Hungry Kids. They've done a whole tour, been overseas, and done another tour in which this is the final date. And you know what? They're in a whole different ball park then they were last time I saw them at the beginning of that previous tour. Remy now fits into the band like an old hand, and they just look so good. And sound, well Andy Troy did a sensational job, and made them sound quite the amazing. They opened with a new-y, and it was pretty awesome. I like where they're going with things. Also! They played 'Last Waltz' with Andy Bull on lead! (as well as all their awesome music) But I am quite partial song. I do like that they closed with my favorite this time around 'Let You Down'. And then really finished with 'Set it Right'. Nice set boys.
So. Wow. T'was a good night of brilliant music. Mmm...
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Lissie - 16 May 2011, The Zoo
w/ Emma Louise
It's been a while. Almost three months since I last went to a gig. And after going to two and three gigs a week, I won't lie, coming back was like being an addict having a relapse. But oh what a wondrous relapse it was. Lissie is something else. After hearing her song 'Everywhere I Go' on the finale of Dollhouse I was in love with her music. It took me a couple of months after that to acquire her album, and when I did, it was bliss. Just so, so amazing. And I could not imagine anyone more perfect to support her than now Brisbane based singer-songwriter Emma Louise.
Emma Louise is a songstress in the making. Her songwriting is so tender and heartfelt, with each song having a particular place in her heart. This much is clear. Something else that has been solidified in my mind after this night, is that she is going to go far. I have seen her gig once before, and even then she blew my mind. Tonight was a notch above that, something even more special. Her final song of the set (and her current single) 'Jungle' was easily the highlight of the set, going that bit over and above where her other songs had been sitting. While her songs are divine, sometimes they sound a little the same.. However if she can produce another Jungle-esk song, mmm.. I can't even begin to imagine what we might be in for. It will be a treat. That's all I know.
I actually can not believe how excited I was for Lissie to come on stage. I'm pretty sure this is the most excited I have been at a gig in a good long while. Yes, it has been a while, but then again, it was Lissie! And can I say right now, I was not disappointed in the slightest. Hearing someone on record is one thing, hearing who they really are in a live situation is something else. I had seen a couple of YouTube clips prior to this gig, and had found it curious just how raw and untamed her voice was in comparison to her record and actually being in the room was just something else. She is a free spirit. There is no other way to describe her performance and ever Lissie, the person, in general. There was just so much heart and soul in everything she performed, and her rendition of 'In Sleep' was utterly sensational, while 'When I'm Alone' brought the crowd to the forefront. 'Everywhere I Go' however was my personal highlight, but then I am quite partial to that song. It is in watching someone like this that I realise just how far Brisbane bands have to progress before they even start to be in the same league as international acts, even that of someone like Lissie.
If this is my relapse into the world of gigs, oh my, what a wonderful relapse it was, and will be! I am quite the excited to see what next time brings me and I am hoping it is sensational!
It's been a while. Almost three months since I last went to a gig. And after going to two and three gigs a week, I won't lie, coming back was like being an addict having a relapse. But oh what a wondrous relapse it was. Lissie is something else. After hearing her song 'Everywhere I Go' on the finale of Dollhouse I was in love with her music. It took me a couple of months after that to acquire her album, and when I did, it was bliss. Just so, so amazing. And I could not imagine anyone more perfect to support her than now Brisbane based singer-songwriter Emma Louise.
Emma Louise is a songstress in the making. Her songwriting is so tender and heartfelt, with each song having a particular place in her heart. This much is clear. Something else that has been solidified in my mind after this night, is that she is going to go far. I have seen her gig once before, and even then she blew my mind. Tonight was a notch above that, something even more special. Her final song of the set (and her current single) 'Jungle' was easily the highlight of the set, going that bit over and above where her other songs had been sitting. While her songs are divine, sometimes they sound a little the same.. However if she can produce another Jungle-esk song, mmm.. I can't even begin to imagine what we might be in for. It will be a treat. That's all I know.
I actually can not believe how excited I was for Lissie to come on stage. I'm pretty sure this is the most excited I have been at a gig in a good long while. Yes, it has been a while, but then again, it was Lissie! And can I say right now, I was not disappointed in the slightest. Hearing someone on record is one thing, hearing who they really are in a live situation is something else. I had seen a couple of YouTube clips prior to this gig, and had found it curious just how raw and untamed her voice was in comparison to her record and actually being in the room was just something else. She is a free spirit. There is no other way to describe her performance and ever Lissie, the person, in general. There was just so much heart and soul in everything she performed, and her rendition of 'In Sleep' was utterly sensational, while 'When I'm Alone' brought the crowd to the forefront. 'Everywhere I Go' however was my personal highlight, but then I am quite partial to that song. It is in watching someone like this that I realise just how far Brisbane bands have to progress before they even start to be in the same league as international acts, even that of someone like Lissie.
If this is my relapse into the world of gigs, oh my, what a wonderful relapse it was, and will be! I am quite the excited to see what next time brings me and I am hoping it is sensational!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Float On... Night Two - 7 February 2011, The Hifi
Regurgitator, John Steel Singers, The Boat People, Ball Park Music, Numbers Radio
So back I go for Float On... Night Two! More Regurgitator with possibly my favourite band, The Boat People and a whole bunch of other talent! After all the good times that happened the night before I am guessing shenanigans run amok tonight.
Up first were Numbers Radio and it was a little disappointing to see that they played to an empty room. With the set times having them start 15 minutes after doors open, I suppose that was to be expected. Still, a little saddening, because they were awesome and sounded so incredible. From what I've heard the Hifi can be a difficult room to play sometimes due to sound issues, however, they sounded incredible! I would like to hear more of this band, they intrigued me. I do like it when a band intrigues me.
Next on were the ever impressive Ball Park Music. Tonight they completely mixed up their set, and it was brilliant. To a music fan who goes to almost every gig of a particular band, the last thing they want to hear is the same set over and over again, with almost no variation. They still want to hear all the songs, but they don't want to hear them in the same format, in the same order every time. That's the way to make a fan not come to gigs. Ball Park Music don't do this. They completely rearranged some of their songs tonight, adding a ballad-esk intro to one of the favourites, and playing 'iFly' much, much earlier in the set. Also they keep a range of song both old and new. Things from their first EP through to things they are currently recording. This alone makes them interesting to watch, as you never know what you're going to get. Also, they are far from a boring band to watch.
The Boat People. Where do I start... This band changed my life. Yet of late I find myself not wanting to go to their gigs. Because of the what makes Ball Park Music so interesting to follow. Their set has basically been the same since when they released their album in July of last year. They play almost only songs from this record, forgetting about those that made them great. They play nothing from "yesyesyesyesyes" and only 'Light of Love (You Got A...)' from "Chandeliers", and to tell you the truth, (and 'Light of Love' is quite possibly my favourite song of theirs, so it hurts me to say this) 'Light of Love' is sounding tired. For as long as I've heard them play, it has been their final song. And it works so well as a final song, but... I would love to hear them play some old stuff, 'Unsettle My Heart' is nothing short of brilliant. Bring that back maybe? Enough said on this.
It was the John Steel Singers that brought forward the crowd into the bottom level of the Hifi and really kicked off the night. Their mix of lush vocals harmonies, guitars, and those ever present brass sounds really brings out what this band are really about. While some other occasions JSS haven't captured me, tonight they were on fire. I would quite like to understand whey bands change their stage set up from gig to gig. Compared to Laneway, only a couple of days previous, they had swapped the staging of the keys with the 12-string guitar. Hungry Kids of Hungary do this on a regular basis also, as I'm sure most bands do, but I would love to know what the reasoning is behind this. Regardless, these guys play a killer set, even when told that they are going quite the overtime and have to cut some of their set, making the bass player struggle on a bass with different tuning... Poor guy.
Last up this night were Regurgitator. And if the previous night's performance left you wanting the rest of the set, tonight more than covered it! I was worried that they would be playing almost the same set as the night before with a coupld of changes, but no. They played a completely different set, dropping many, but adding many more, while keeping the big favourites. It was like tonight completed the set they didn't get to finish the night before, and made for the full experience. For me tonight, I ventured away from the safety towards the middle of the room, and thrust myself in amongst it. And you know what? It was freakingsweet! So, so awesome! Such a different experience than just standing watching a gig. To be in the mosh for a band like this... mmm. Awesome.
And thus ends the epicness that was Float On. I do truly hope that a shitload of money was raised for the floods, because you know what? These two nights have probably been the best musical experience of my life so far. And I believe more than a couple of those who were there would be saying the same thing.
So back I go for Float On... Night Two! More Regurgitator with possibly my favourite band, The Boat People and a whole bunch of other talent! After all the good times that happened the night before I am guessing shenanigans run amok tonight.
Up first were Numbers Radio and it was a little disappointing to see that they played to an empty room. With the set times having them start 15 minutes after doors open, I suppose that was to be expected. Still, a little saddening, because they were awesome and sounded so incredible. From what I've heard the Hifi can be a difficult room to play sometimes due to sound issues, however, they sounded incredible! I would like to hear more of this band, they intrigued me. I do like it when a band intrigues me.
Next on were the ever impressive Ball Park Music. Tonight they completely mixed up their set, and it was brilliant. To a music fan who goes to almost every gig of a particular band, the last thing they want to hear is the same set over and over again, with almost no variation. They still want to hear all the songs, but they don't want to hear them in the same format, in the same order every time. That's the way to make a fan not come to gigs. Ball Park Music don't do this. They completely rearranged some of their songs tonight, adding a ballad-esk intro to one of the favourites, and playing 'iFly' much, much earlier in the set. Also they keep a range of song both old and new. Things from their first EP through to things they are currently recording. This alone makes them interesting to watch, as you never know what you're going to get. Also, they are far from a boring band to watch.
The Boat People. Where do I start... This band changed my life. Yet of late I find myself not wanting to go to their gigs. Because of the what makes Ball Park Music so interesting to follow. Their set has basically been the same since when they released their album in July of last year. They play almost only songs from this record, forgetting about those that made them great. They play nothing from "yesyesyesyesyes" and only 'Light of Love (You Got A...)' from "Chandeliers", and to tell you the truth, (and 'Light of Love' is quite possibly my favourite song of theirs, so it hurts me to say this) 'Light of Love' is sounding tired. For as long as I've heard them play, it has been their final song. And it works so well as a final song, but... I would love to hear them play some old stuff, 'Unsettle My Heart' is nothing short of brilliant. Bring that back maybe? Enough said on this.
It was the John Steel Singers that brought forward the crowd into the bottom level of the Hifi and really kicked off the night. Their mix of lush vocals harmonies, guitars, and those ever present brass sounds really brings out what this band are really about. While some other occasions JSS haven't captured me, tonight they were on fire. I would quite like to understand whey bands change their stage set up from gig to gig. Compared to Laneway, only a couple of days previous, they had swapped the staging of the keys with the 12-string guitar. Hungry Kids of Hungary do this on a regular basis also, as I'm sure most bands do, but I would love to know what the reasoning is behind this. Regardless, these guys play a killer set, even when told that they are going quite the overtime and have to cut some of their set, making the bass player struggle on a bass with different tuning... Poor guy.
Last up this night were Regurgitator. And if the previous night's performance left you wanting the rest of the set, tonight more than covered it! I was worried that they would be playing almost the same set as the night before with a coupld of changes, but no. They played a completely different set, dropping many, but adding many more, while keeping the big favourites. It was like tonight completed the set they didn't get to finish the night before, and made for the full experience. For me tonight, I ventured away from the safety towards the middle of the room, and thrust myself in amongst it. And you know what? It was freakingsweet! So, so awesome! Such a different experience than just standing watching a gig. To be in the mosh for a band like this... mmm. Awesome.
And thus ends the epicness that was Float On. I do truly hope that a shitload of money was raised for the floods, because you know what? These two nights have probably been the best musical experience of my life so far. And I believe more than a couple of those who were there would be saying the same thing.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Float On... - 6 February 2011, The Hifi
Regurgitator, Custard, Kate Miller-Heidke, Hungry Kids of Hungary, Screemfeeder, Gentle Ben & His Sensitive Side, Little Scout
I don't know how to even begin thinking about this line-up. Only a natural disaster could bring together such a talented bunch of people. Not to mention reunite one of Brisbane's greatest band of the 90s! Custard! After the line up that was Laneway, follow it two days later with this, and my musical dreams have almost been fulfilled. I kind of wish I had been this age in the 90s so I could appreciate these bands in their peak as well as all the weird and wonderful musical sensations that were the 90s. Sigh.
Opening the night was the big talent that is Little Scout. I have never heard this band sound so loud! Given I've never heard them in a bigger venue than The Troubadour, but still, this was a little much. For me, the thing this band have going for them is their quirkiness, which mainly comes from drummer Miro Mackie's riffs. Tonight however the kit was so heavy that these light idiosyncrasies were lost in the mix. This especially happened in 'Shakes and Rattles' where the kick over powered everything else. I would like to see this band continue to hold on to that quirkiness that makes me adore them, but if this is more the direction they are heading in, so be it. Regardless, their new material is solid, and I do look forward to hearing it on record.
Gentle Ben & His Sensitive Side were up next, and while I appreciate what they have going on, they're not my cup of tea. I did however marvel at their frontman and his antics. He has so much energy on stage, and that combined with good musical ideas is what makes a band. Its one thing to play well. It's another thing to look sort of interested on stage, but it takes something special to capture a crowd just with the antics of even one person in the band. I'm not saying that this band didn't play good music, they most certainly did! It's just not my particular cup of tea.
See, now Screemfeeder are amazing. I swear I've never heard the sound system at the Hifi quite this loud before. It kind of blew my mind, and my ears. Like Gentle Ben, but in a completely different way, I really didn't enjoy Screemfeeder. Just so obsenely loud! I actually don't get it. I tried to appreciate this band, I really tried. But when all I can hear is a kick drum, and the bass with a hint of guitars and a tiny inkling that the vocals, it's a little difficult. Maybe it's because I actually like to listen to the lyrics of songs. I believe that this is where the heart and soul of an artist comes to life. And with this band, I couldn't get anything. You can be a loud band while still being able to get the vocals above the sound of everything else in the band. On record it's probably a completely different story, but these are my thoughts on the subject, and I shall say no more.
Hungry Kids of Hungary took to the stage next with their particular brand of awesomeness. They played through their power set with such an ease that it brings the crowd (or at least those who made the perilous journey to the front) to life from the word go. So Remy is now officially a member of this band. Hurray! He brings another personality to the already brimming presence that they have on stage, and also fills out the texture of both the instrumental and vocal sides of the music. I do particularly like how his voice blends in with the harmonies, and adds that extra mmm.
For me, it's been probably two years since I had seen Kate Miller-Heidke live. I think the last time was at the Tivoli, years ago... Anyway, since then she has toured around the world, most recently with the obscenely talented Ben Folds. And what a difference a couple of years can make in regards to the growth of a musician. While she has lost none of her quirkiness musically, she brings a much more reserved approach to her set, augmenting it tonight with guest harmonies, and a hint of rhythm. From what I understand though, she has been recently just been performing as a duo with Keir. And this actually works surprisingly well. I had reservations about the 'acoustic' set, but like I said, she has grown so much since last I saw her, and really honed her flair for performance. (It's not like it wasn't there in the first place though). Also, Keir is a freaking ah-mazing guitarist.
I still can not believe that I witnessed the reform of Custard! It's actually quite the mind blowing! This is the first club gig they have played in 10 years. And you know what? I actually have no idea where to even begin with these guys. For one, they played about 15 mins over time, and you know what? I think that would have totally been ok with everyone in the room! I don't know if I am qualified to do justice to this set. It was beyond anything I could have possibly imagined. And probably one of the best sets I have possibly ever seen.
Regurgitator have always been in my life I have recently found out. It may be quite naive of me to say this, but you know when you are exposed to music, but you don't really take an interest, then realise who it is later in life and go a little bit nuts? Yeah, this happened to me a week ago. In acquiring Regurgitator's music off my brother, I realised that I could belt out the lyrics to more than a couple of their songs without even trying! I also realised that I do love this band, and had forgotten them. Woops... Anyway, their set this night was incredible! I would never have thought that I would see myself at a Regurgitator gig, but you know what! I loved it, so very very much! Highlights for me were easily 'Polyester Girl' and 'Fat Cop' but you know what, they did no wrong. I was a little disappointed that they left off some important singles, but fingers crossed tomorrow night's set will cover these missing songs!
This gig could quite possibly be the greatest thing I will ever see! I just do not see how it can be topped. The artist that got me into the live music scene, Miss Kate Miller-Heidke, one of my favorite Brisbane bands at present, Hungry Kids of Hungary, Brisbane legends Custard, and Regurgitator. I do not see how this will be topped... Wow. That is all.
I don't know how to even begin thinking about this line-up. Only a natural disaster could bring together such a talented bunch of people. Not to mention reunite one of Brisbane's greatest band of the 90s! Custard! After the line up that was Laneway, follow it two days later with this, and my musical dreams have almost been fulfilled. I kind of wish I had been this age in the 90s so I could appreciate these bands in their peak as well as all the weird and wonderful musical sensations that were the 90s. Sigh.
Opening the night was the big talent that is Little Scout. I have never heard this band sound so loud! Given I've never heard them in a bigger venue than The Troubadour, but still, this was a little much. For me, the thing this band have going for them is their quirkiness, which mainly comes from drummer Miro Mackie's riffs. Tonight however the kit was so heavy that these light idiosyncrasies were lost in the mix. This especially happened in 'Shakes and Rattles' where the kick over powered everything else. I would like to see this band continue to hold on to that quirkiness that makes me adore them, but if this is more the direction they are heading in, so be it. Regardless, their new material is solid, and I do look forward to hearing it on record.
Gentle Ben & His Sensitive Side were up next, and while I appreciate what they have going on, they're not my cup of tea. I did however marvel at their frontman and his antics. He has so much energy on stage, and that combined with good musical ideas is what makes a band. Its one thing to play well. It's another thing to look sort of interested on stage, but it takes something special to capture a crowd just with the antics of even one person in the band. I'm not saying that this band didn't play good music, they most certainly did! It's just not my particular cup of tea.
See, now Screemfeeder are amazing. I swear I've never heard the sound system at the Hifi quite this loud before. It kind of blew my mind, and my ears. Like Gentle Ben, but in a completely different way, I really didn't enjoy Screemfeeder. Just so obsenely loud! I actually don't get it. I tried to appreciate this band, I really tried. But when all I can hear is a kick drum, and the bass with a hint of guitars and a tiny inkling that the vocals, it's a little difficult. Maybe it's because I actually like to listen to the lyrics of songs. I believe that this is where the heart and soul of an artist comes to life. And with this band, I couldn't get anything. You can be a loud band while still being able to get the vocals above the sound of everything else in the band. On record it's probably a completely different story, but these are my thoughts on the subject, and I shall say no more.
Hungry Kids of Hungary took to the stage next with their particular brand of awesomeness. They played through their power set with such an ease that it brings the crowd (or at least those who made the perilous journey to the front) to life from the word go. So Remy is now officially a member of this band. Hurray! He brings another personality to the already brimming presence that they have on stage, and also fills out the texture of both the instrumental and vocal sides of the music. I do particularly like how his voice blends in with the harmonies, and adds that extra mmm.
For me, it's been probably two years since I had seen Kate Miller-Heidke live. I think the last time was at the Tivoli, years ago... Anyway, since then she has toured around the world, most recently with the obscenely talented Ben Folds. And what a difference a couple of years can make in regards to the growth of a musician. While she has lost none of her quirkiness musically, she brings a much more reserved approach to her set, augmenting it tonight with guest harmonies, and a hint of rhythm. From what I understand though, she has been recently just been performing as a duo with Keir. And this actually works surprisingly well. I had reservations about the 'acoustic' set, but like I said, she has grown so much since last I saw her, and really honed her flair for performance. (It's not like it wasn't there in the first place though). Also, Keir is a freaking ah-mazing guitarist.
I still can not believe that I witnessed the reform of Custard! It's actually quite the mind blowing! This is the first club gig they have played in 10 years. And you know what? I actually have no idea where to even begin with these guys. For one, they played about 15 mins over time, and you know what? I think that would have totally been ok with everyone in the room! I don't know if I am qualified to do justice to this set. It was beyond anything I could have possibly imagined. And probably one of the best sets I have possibly ever seen.
Regurgitator have always been in my life I have recently found out. It may be quite naive of me to say this, but you know when you are exposed to music, but you don't really take an interest, then realise who it is later in life and go a little bit nuts? Yeah, this happened to me a week ago. In acquiring Regurgitator's music off my brother, I realised that I could belt out the lyrics to more than a couple of their songs without even trying! I also realised that I do love this band, and had forgotten them. Woops... Anyway, their set this night was incredible! I would never have thought that I would see myself at a Regurgitator gig, but you know what! I loved it, so very very much! Highlights for me were easily 'Polyester Girl' and 'Fat Cop' but you know what, they did no wrong. I was a little disappointed that they left off some important singles, but fingers crossed tomorrow night's set will cover these missing songs!
This gig could quite possibly be the greatest thing I will ever see! I just do not see how it can be topped. The artist that got me into the live music scene, Miss Kate Miller-Heidke, one of my favorite Brisbane bands at present, Hungry Kids of Hungary, Brisbane legends Custard, and Regurgitator. I do not see how this will be topped... Wow. That is all.
Laneway Festival - 4 February 2011, Fortitude Valley
First off, I have to mention how freaking amazing this festival line up is! I couldn't even begin to comprehend it when I first found out the line up. And with such a stellar line up I was literally wetting myself in anticipation of the set times to be released, praying that there wouldn't be too many clashes. Thankfully there were only a handful, and well, it was bound to happen. Thankfully it could have taken a worse turn than it did.
So my annoying habit of running late to gigs has returned it seems. Aiming to be at the gates at 1 was achievable, but alas... I was after 2 before I arrived. This actually frustrates me! I don't like making a habit of being late to anything, and this made me miss Inland Sea, who I'd been hoping for another chance to hear since their Powerhouse show late last year. Ah well. I know there will be another time in the near future to see these youngsters. After taking a turn about the grounds, I settled on Stornoway as a good place to start the festivities. Taking on the big stage they drew a reasonable sized crowd considering the early set time, and the smouldering heat that embraced the sun exposed viewing arena. Can I just add that this heat was relentless! There was absolutely not getting away from it, even in the shade. And as the sun went down, it didn't ease up all that much, which was much to my disappointment! Just so sticky and gross! Anyway. Stornoway. They have a good thing going on. I would like to hear more of them. They have made me curious.
Taking a perch at the New Alexandria St Stage, we all waited for what I hoped would be one of the highlights of the day. Local Natives. And what an act they are! I will admit, I have maybe over-indulged myself in their record "Gorilla Manor" but nothing can really prepare you for a live experience. They were stunning, with their three part harmonies soaring above the textured underlying riffs. They brought out all the stops especially with 'Who Knows Who Cares' which really brought out the life in the crowd. This band really have something special going on, with a kind of simplicity that is actually mind blowing in it's complexity, if that even makes sense...
Again staying put at the Alexandria St Stage we were blessed with the touching tunes of Beach House. This wasn't the venue, nor the time of day for these guys. Not at all. I believe they would have been much better on a smaller stage. But this is just me. They pulled a huge array of people, but something just didn't feel right to me. I don't know. Their melancholic tunes were truly incredible. And no matter how hard I tried to accept it in my brain, it just would not let me remember, nor accept that it was a chick singing. Her voice remind me so much of a guys voice, with its inflections and turns, but alas, I am obviously daft! Haha! She is quite the talented.
Now this is a big call, but I do believe that the next act up on the big stage Two Door Cinema Club were my pick of the day. For this one it was a must to be in amongst the action as opposed to sticking to the outskirts like I had been, and I would not have changed this decision for the world. They played hit after hit, and just kept on going! And where this band went on this excruciatingly disgusting afternoon, the whole crowd went with them. 'Undercover Martyn' went off. 'Eat That Up, It's Good for You' also went off. 'I Can Talk' went off also. You know what? They didn't really do much wrong at all. Not even someone bursting the fire hydrant could dampen the spirits of this crowd. (:P) In fact it was actually very welcome! Nothing like getting soaked to reset the energy levels on a hot day.
Allons-y! Zoo/ Big Sound Stage! Arriving in the middle of the John Steel Singers it was a surprise to see Mel from Little Scout on stage also. Don't think this has ever happened before... Deciding not to stay too long into their set, I thought it would be a better idea to take the opportunity to find food, maybe a drink among other things. And lucky I left when I did. Because to do all of this, I still didn't make it back in time for the start of Hungry Kids of Hungary's set. I don't think I need to say it again, but this band really do have something special, and I believe that they have a great future ahead of them. Not only do they sound good on record, but they also look and sound phenomenal on stage!
At this stage of the night I was pretty low on energy. Saw a bit of Cloud Control from the very back of the crowd (and that little laneway stage they were playing on was full beyond capacity.) Also saw a bit of Foals from the back of the crowd on the Alexandria Stage next door. I wish I could have been apart of the crowd instead of lingering on the outskirts of it! It would have been amazing. But alas, due to set times and unavoidable clashes at this time of night, that was impossible due to the fact that Gotye was set to play starting half way through their set. And it would have been an unpleasant mission to find a route out of that mosh.
Gotye - the final act of the night for me. Holy shit. Mind blowing!! As a whole, his set was so flawed and actually a bit of a failure, but despite all that, so so awesome. I do feel for his sound guy! I have never seen so much gear on stage for just three people to play with. And that's where his troubles started. When things were working what he produced was beautiful! When they weren't... His main synth was an electric xylophone, not a keyboard, and aesthetically, that made all the difference. Yeah you can stand in front of a keyboard or a set of pads, but having a xylophone made it look that much more extravagant and cool. But enough with the aesthetics. This man is so talented, and is a born performer. When things were going oh so wrong, he managed to keep the crowd in his hands by creating a "song" based on crowd participation until the problem was... resolved? Also the music he makes is so full and complicated on so many levels it is a mission to listen to. I mean that in the best possible way. On each listen to the record you hear something you had missed the time before. And live it just creates a whole new level of appreciation for this complexness. Mmmm. :)
There are so many more bands that I would have loved to have seen, but time and energy can only let you do so much. I wish I could have a do-over of the day, see everything I wished I could have seen. But alas. One day.
So my annoying habit of running late to gigs has returned it seems. Aiming to be at the gates at 1 was achievable, but alas... I was after 2 before I arrived. This actually frustrates me! I don't like making a habit of being late to anything, and this made me miss Inland Sea, who I'd been hoping for another chance to hear since their Powerhouse show late last year. Ah well. I know there will be another time in the near future to see these youngsters. After taking a turn about the grounds, I settled on Stornoway as a good place to start the festivities. Taking on the big stage they drew a reasonable sized crowd considering the early set time, and the smouldering heat that embraced the sun exposed viewing arena. Can I just add that this heat was relentless! There was absolutely not getting away from it, even in the shade. And as the sun went down, it didn't ease up all that much, which was much to my disappointment! Just so sticky and gross! Anyway. Stornoway. They have a good thing going on. I would like to hear more of them. They have made me curious.
Taking a perch at the New Alexandria St Stage, we all waited for what I hoped would be one of the highlights of the day. Local Natives. And what an act they are! I will admit, I have maybe over-indulged myself in their record "Gorilla Manor" but nothing can really prepare you for a live experience. They were stunning, with their three part harmonies soaring above the textured underlying riffs. They brought out all the stops especially with 'Who Knows Who Cares' which really brought out the life in the crowd. This band really have something special going on, with a kind of simplicity that is actually mind blowing in it's complexity, if that even makes sense...
Again staying put at the Alexandria St Stage we were blessed with the touching tunes of Beach House. This wasn't the venue, nor the time of day for these guys. Not at all. I believe they would have been much better on a smaller stage. But this is just me. They pulled a huge array of people, but something just didn't feel right to me. I don't know. Their melancholic tunes were truly incredible. And no matter how hard I tried to accept it in my brain, it just would not let me remember, nor accept that it was a chick singing. Her voice remind me so much of a guys voice, with its inflections and turns, but alas, I am obviously daft! Haha! She is quite the talented.
Now this is a big call, but I do believe that the next act up on the big stage Two Door Cinema Club were my pick of the day. For this one it was a must to be in amongst the action as opposed to sticking to the outskirts like I had been, and I would not have changed this decision for the world. They played hit after hit, and just kept on going! And where this band went on this excruciatingly disgusting afternoon, the whole crowd went with them. 'Undercover Martyn' went off. 'Eat That Up, It's Good for You' also went off. 'I Can Talk' went off also. You know what? They didn't really do much wrong at all. Not even someone bursting the fire hydrant could dampen the spirits of this crowd. (:P) In fact it was actually very welcome! Nothing like getting soaked to reset the energy levels on a hot day.
Allons-y! Zoo/ Big Sound Stage! Arriving in the middle of the John Steel Singers it was a surprise to see Mel from Little Scout on stage also. Don't think this has ever happened before... Deciding not to stay too long into their set, I thought it would be a better idea to take the opportunity to find food, maybe a drink among other things. And lucky I left when I did. Because to do all of this, I still didn't make it back in time for the start of Hungry Kids of Hungary's set. I don't think I need to say it again, but this band really do have something special, and I believe that they have a great future ahead of them. Not only do they sound good on record, but they also look and sound phenomenal on stage!
At this stage of the night I was pretty low on energy. Saw a bit of Cloud Control from the very back of the crowd (and that little laneway stage they were playing on was full beyond capacity.) Also saw a bit of Foals from the back of the crowd on the Alexandria Stage next door. I wish I could have been apart of the crowd instead of lingering on the outskirts of it! It would have been amazing. But alas, due to set times and unavoidable clashes at this time of night, that was impossible due to the fact that Gotye was set to play starting half way through their set. And it would have been an unpleasant mission to find a route out of that mosh.
Gotye - the final act of the night for me. Holy shit. Mind blowing!! As a whole, his set was so flawed and actually a bit of a failure, but despite all that, so so awesome. I do feel for his sound guy! I have never seen so much gear on stage for just three people to play with. And that's where his troubles started. When things were working what he produced was beautiful! When they weren't... His main synth was an electric xylophone, not a keyboard, and aesthetically, that made all the difference. Yeah you can stand in front of a keyboard or a set of pads, but having a xylophone made it look that much more extravagant and cool. But enough with the aesthetics. This man is so talented, and is a born performer. When things were going oh so wrong, he managed to keep the crowd in his hands by creating a "song" based on crowd participation until the problem was... resolved? Also the music he makes is so full and complicated on so many levels it is a mission to listen to. I mean that in the best possible way. On each listen to the record you hear something you had missed the time before. And live it just creates a whole new level of appreciation for this complexness. Mmmm. :)
There are so many more bands that I would have loved to have seen, but time and energy can only let you do so much. I wish I could have a do-over of the day, see everything I wished I could have seen. But alas. One day.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Inland Sea - 28 November 2010, Brisbane Powerhouse
Inland Sea
Live Spark is such a brilliant idea. For one, the Powerhouse is one of my favourite venues. Everytime I go there I am always flabbergasted by the design of the building. The outside is just so old and beautiful while the inside is quite the interesting! With all the different levels, I find myself occasionally forgetting about the music being performed and just letting my gaze wonder about the interior.For another, free music on a Sunday afternoon is the perfect way to get people to conclude their weekend in a chilled yet civilised fashion.
Inland Sea were playing on this particular afternoon. After hearing their harmonies with Hungry Kids of Hungary at Triple J's AusMusic Month Party, I was curious to hear what they could do in their natural habitat. Of the ten band members, five share the vocal duties, with another two solely on strings (violin and cello), while the other three making up the rhythm section of the band (guitar, bass and kit). What makes this band quite unique is the fact that all ten members play a pivotal role in the music making process. (Although with this many band members, I can't even imagine how they get together for band practice!) The strings played in almost every song, which was kind of interesting, but what was more so, was that one of the guy vocalists played the ukulele in almost every song also. Watching the singers quite closely, I was intrigued to discover that almost every song had a new lead vocalist, weather it be one of the three girls of one of the two guys. All the other played the part of the backing. This made the music quite polyphonic, which isn't a bad thing, but when they're doing this kind of music for all their repertoire, it gets a little same ol', same ol'. 'All Fall Down' their latest single off their newly released EP was definitely the highlight of the set though.
Live Spark is such a brilliant idea. For one, the Powerhouse is one of my favourite venues. Everytime I go there I am always flabbergasted by the design of the building. The outside is just so old and beautiful while the inside is quite the interesting! With all the different levels, I find myself occasionally forgetting about the music being performed and just letting my gaze wonder about the interior.For another, free music on a Sunday afternoon is the perfect way to get people to conclude their weekend in a chilled yet civilised fashion.
Inland Sea were playing on this particular afternoon. After hearing their harmonies with Hungry Kids of Hungary at Triple J's AusMusic Month Party, I was curious to hear what they could do in their natural habitat. Of the ten band members, five share the vocal duties, with another two solely on strings (violin and cello), while the other three making up the rhythm section of the band (guitar, bass and kit). What makes this band quite unique is the fact that all ten members play a pivotal role in the music making process. (Although with this many band members, I can't even imagine how they get together for band practice!) The strings played in almost every song, which was kind of interesting, but what was more so, was that one of the guy vocalists played the ukulele in almost every song also. Watching the singers quite closely, I was intrigued to discover that almost every song had a new lead vocalist, weather it be one of the three girls of one of the two guys. All the other played the part of the backing. This made the music quite polyphonic, which isn't a bad thing, but when they're doing this kind of music for all their repertoire, it gets a little same ol', same ol'. 'All Fall Down' their latest single off their newly released EP was definitely the highlight of the set though.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Never! - 27 November 2010, The Old Museum
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.
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.
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.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Eagle and the Worm - 22 October 2010, The Troubadour
w/ Ball Park Music, Blame Ringo
With such a freaking good line up, of cause I already have locked in plans.... *sigh* But it on the plus side, I did make it in time to see half of Ball Park Music's loose-as set, and the Eagle and the Worm. While unfortunate that Blame Ringo had to take a bench seat, I am sure I will see more of this band, because what can i say, they also are pretty sweet.
Ball Park Music. They always play a fun set. Tonight they were all drunk. They played a fun set with a heightened sense of of the word loose. I didn't think they could get much more entertaining, but tonight, I ended up spending most of the songs I saw in hysterics. As they almost always do with "iFly" stopped mid song and had a bit of a chat amongst themselves and to the audience. Tonight however, it seemed longer and more irrelevant. Again with the hysterics. Till Sam get on with it casually inputting "So I called up my mum and I said, 'I Fucking Love You...." Such an incredible band. Even when drunk they can still rock the hell out of the Troubadour.
So, everyone has been telling me about Eagle and the Worm. I keep hearing about them wherever I go. "You should really go see them." "They are incredible." I believe these people hence the reason I am here. And holy SHIT! They weren't even kidding! From song one they stared a party like none other. If Ball Park Music are fun onstage, these guys top it ten fold. You just can't help but move and dance like an idiot. I'm not usually one for the "dancing like an idiot" kind of thing, but when surrounded with the Ball Park kids, it's hard not to get into the spirit of things. (Man those guys know how to partae). So the frontman has an interesting sort of a guitar. The bottom two strings are bass strings, while the upper three are guitar stings. I would have loved to have a play with this guitar, coz that's just cool! Not only was he playing this guitar, but also a normal bass, resulting in the bad having two playing bass! So apart from this interesting guitar lineup, they also have a member solely playing the trumpet and tambourine. The last thing I have to mention is the fact that they use a kazoo in one of their songs!! Pretty sure that tops the cool things about this band's instrumentation. Joining them on stage for their last song (my personal favourite in their set) was Paul on trombone. Oh my, the set was good, this song however just lifted it up to that next level. So amazing! EatW's singles were definitely some of the highlights of set and with their album release early next year there are going to be way more good sets from these guys.
I more than anything wish I could have been there for the entire night of music. The atmosphere in the room was absolutely buzzing by then end, and I know Blame Ringo would have put on one hell of a set also. Another time :)
With such a freaking good line up, of cause I already have locked in plans.... *sigh* But it on the plus side, I did make it in time to see half of Ball Park Music's loose-as set, and the Eagle and the Worm. While unfortunate that Blame Ringo had to take a bench seat, I am sure I will see more of this band, because what can i say, they also are pretty sweet.
Ball Park Music. They always play a fun set. Tonight they were all drunk. They played a fun set with a heightened sense of of the word loose. I didn't think they could get much more entertaining, but tonight, I ended up spending most of the songs I saw in hysterics. As they almost always do with "iFly" stopped mid song and had a bit of a chat amongst themselves and to the audience. Tonight however, it seemed longer and more irrelevant. Again with the hysterics. Till Sam get on with it casually inputting "So I called up my mum and I said, 'I Fucking Love You...." Such an incredible band. Even when drunk they can still rock the hell out of the Troubadour.
So, everyone has been telling me about Eagle and the Worm. I keep hearing about them wherever I go. "You should really go see them." "They are incredible." I believe these people hence the reason I am here. And holy SHIT! They weren't even kidding! From song one they stared a party like none other. If Ball Park Music are fun onstage, these guys top it ten fold. You just can't help but move and dance like an idiot. I'm not usually one for the "dancing like an idiot" kind of thing, but when surrounded with the Ball Park kids, it's hard not to get into the spirit of things. (Man those guys know how to partae). So the frontman has an interesting sort of a guitar. The bottom two strings are bass strings, while the upper three are guitar stings. I would have loved to have a play with this guitar, coz that's just cool! Not only was he playing this guitar, but also a normal bass, resulting in the bad having two playing bass! So apart from this interesting guitar lineup, they also have a member solely playing the trumpet and tambourine. The last thing I have to mention is the fact that they use a kazoo in one of their songs!! Pretty sure that tops the cool things about this band's instrumentation. Joining them on stage for their last song (my personal favourite in their set) was Paul on trombone. Oh my, the set was good, this song however just lifted it up to that next level. So amazing! EatW's singles were definitely some of the highlights of set and with their album release early next year there are going to be way more good sets from these guys.
I more than anything wish I could have been there for the entire night of music. The atmosphere in the room was absolutely buzzing by then end, and I know Blame Ringo would have put on one hell of a set also. Another time :)
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Sarah Blasko - 21 October 2010, Concert Hall (QPAC)
w/ Seja
Its been a while between gigs, but I bring you now something a little more classy. At the QPAC concert hall we were witness to two beautiful sets of lungs. One in Seja, the other in the beautiful Sarah Blasko.
In arriving late, we were not let into the theater until a break in Seja's set. Ah the cost of classiness. The number of times I have performed on the concert hall stage I can not even count, but I think this is one of the first times I have actually sat in as an audience member. And oh my, how that stage can be transformed. Covering the choir stalls behind the stage was a such a simple backdrop, with Blasko's themed circle design. It was like a completely different venue. Enough on venue, Seja took us through a set that, and I won't lie, could have been so much better. The songs themselves could have been much tighter with ends of songs just not ending well. A song performed with a solo voice and guitar (while the other two chilled over wine) for me was one of the highlights "if I was born in a different century... I'd already be history". I also found it fascinating to see all three members come to the three synths out the front to perform one song. Visually quite strange. Regardless I did quite enjoy her set despite some "awkward silliness" on stage.
After quite a long "interval" we returned to a slightly redesigned set and men with capes. However It was still some time before Sarah Blasko graced the stage with her presence. It was quite a sight though when she did. She was wearing a white dress with a quite over the top beaded necklace and headpiece to match her set. Her band also dressed in white completed the visual aesthetic. she captivated me from her very first note, yet as the set continued, to me it just all started sounding the same... There was not too much variation between songs. The start, amazing, the end, equally as brilliant, however the middle of the set lost me a little. Easily the highlights were "Hold on my Heart" which was absolutely stunning, and showed off just what this singer is all about, and "Flame Trees". Oh my. Her cover of Flame Trees (the last time she would ever play this in Brisbane apparently) was actually moving. As much as I love a good joke between songs, I think she should stick to the singing. Whenever she stopped to talk, it was just awkward and I felt a little embarrassed for her because it was to awkward...
So despite lots of awkwardness on stage between songs, the music both acts presented to us was something pretty special. I don't know if the Concert Hall was the right venue for this gig though. Being in the theater subdued the audience ten fold. But then, ah who know, put Sarah Blasko in any venue and it could have been the same. Her music isn't exactly the type to get your dancing shoes out to. Not that this is a bad thing whatsoever. Sometimes it is wonderful just to sit back and let the sound of a stunning set of lungs wash all over you.
Its been a while between gigs, but I bring you now something a little more classy. At the QPAC concert hall we were witness to two beautiful sets of lungs. One in Seja, the other in the beautiful Sarah Blasko.
In arriving late, we were not let into the theater until a break in Seja's set. Ah the cost of classiness. The number of times I have performed on the concert hall stage I can not even count, but I think this is one of the first times I have actually sat in as an audience member. And oh my, how that stage can be transformed. Covering the choir stalls behind the stage was a such a simple backdrop, with Blasko's themed circle design. It was like a completely different venue. Enough on venue, Seja took us through a set that, and I won't lie, could have been so much better. The songs themselves could have been much tighter with ends of songs just not ending well. A song performed with a solo voice and guitar (while the other two chilled over wine) for me was one of the highlights "if I was born in a different century... I'd already be history". I also found it fascinating to see all three members come to the three synths out the front to perform one song. Visually quite strange. Regardless I did quite enjoy her set despite some "awkward silliness" on stage.
After quite a long "interval" we returned to a slightly redesigned set and men with capes. However It was still some time before Sarah Blasko graced the stage with her presence. It was quite a sight though when she did. She was wearing a white dress with a quite over the top beaded necklace and headpiece to match her set. Her band also dressed in white completed the visual aesthetic. she captivated me from her very first note, yet as the set continued, to me it just all started sounding the same... There was not too much variation between songs. The start, amazing, the end, equally as brilliant, however the middle of the set lost me a little. Easily the highlights were "Hold on my Heart" which was absolutely stunning, and showed off just what this singer is all about, and "Flame Trees". Oh my. Her cover of Flame Trees (the last time she would ever play this in Brisbane apparently) was actually moving. As much as I love a good joke between songs, I think she should stick to the singing. Whenever she stopped to talk, it was just awkward and I felt a little embarrassed for her because it was to awkward...
So despite lots of awkwardness on stage between songs, the music both acts presented to us was something pretty special. I don't know if the Concert Hall was the right venue for this gig though. Being in the theater subdued the audience ten fold. But then, ah who know, put Sarah Blasko in any venue and it could have been the same. Her music isn't exactly the type to get your dancing shoes out to. Not that this is a bad thing whatsoever. Sometimes it is wonderful just to sit back and let the sound of a stunning set of lungs wash all over you.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Hungry Kids of Hungary - 30 September 2010, The HiFi
w/ Big Scary, Ball Park Music
On the eve of their debut album release 'Escapades' Hungry Kids of Hungary kick started their national album tour with a home town show at the Hifi. The Album is bigger than Ben Her, and pretty much as awesome as the Knights who say "Ni". And with them on this national tour are two stellar acts in Big Scary and newcomers Ball Park Music. I couldn't imagine a greater tour to promote a brilliant album.
Opening the night were the crazy kids from Ball Park Music. As soon as the curtains opened, the fun began, and did not stop until those curtains closed, or at least until everyone was back on stage and behind those curtains. As of right now, Ball Park have a stellar set. They go from one hit to the next with no time to catch their breath. And tonight, as always, Sam was on fire. The group mourned the absence of Dean who was off travelling the world (The Brisbane tour date had been changed since the original planning apparently). As sad as this absence was, they played stupidly well. 'iFly' is always a hit, and each time I hear it, the band takes it to another level of crazy. Such talented little mofos.
Big Scary was up next, and while I love a handful of their songs, their other songs really don't do much for me. And while I really tried to stay enthused for the entire set, they lost me about half way. 'Falling Away' by far my favourite song of theirs is not typical of their style, but was easily the best song in their set. The drummer in that band is phenomenal. While they lost me with their music, she captivated me with how much presence she has on stage. The frontman, moved from guitar to keys, and back again. I know the set list they had enforced that, but it was a little messy at time, going from one side of stage to the other every song. I don't know. I really liked them the first time I hear them live, and I still love almost everything they've released, but live, they lose me, and I hate myself for saying that because they are just so talented.
By this stage in the night, the Hifi was filling up, and where the balcony wasn't open before, t'was open now. Kudos! But now, the moment we had all been waiting for, Hungry Kids of Hungary, and oh my, they absolutely killed it! The stage, now laced with fairy lights and blow up palm trees just set the scene for this album promo. Their set list was flawless, moving thought their singles to songs from their new album, to a sensational covers. Standing right in front of the sound desk is the place to be in the Hifi, and they sounded so so good. Their new hit 'Coming Around' was a crowd favourite, as was 'Scattered Diamonds'. I don't know what else to say. Last I heard them at The Zoo, they were awesome, but this was something more. For their encore they played their cover of Weezer's 'Buddy Holy'. And it went down a treat. By this stage, they had invited the Ball Park kids on stage and everyone was going nuts. They finished with 'Two Shoes' which I have to say, could quite possibly be my favourite tune. As they played this extended play out, Sam from Ball Park
jumped off stage with one of the inflatable palm trees decorating the stage and ran, battering ram style around the room, winding any and all who got in his way.
I have no more words, apart from brilliant, stellar and frigginsweet!
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