It is such a special occasion when a band reunites for a show, no matter how big or small they may be. I Heart Hiroshima
did just this for the Gold Coast Big Day Out with members flying half
way across the world to make it happen. It's even more special when said
band puts on a slightly sneaky headline show a couple of days later to
make the union all that more special.
Up first, playing for a fairly thin crowd was Cobwebbs. And in
my own personal opinion, I had no idea what the deal was with this
group of guys. It was like a garage band had been thrust unexpectedly
onto the stage and told to play. The frontman was stumbling all over the
place like he was on something and the instrumentalists just looked
bored, with one of the guitarists performing the entire set with his
back to the crowd. I get that I Heart Hiroshima started off as an underground band and all that, but this was a different kind of raw. Hey, that’s just my opinion.
Next up was Tight Slip, who was another interesting kind of a
band. Donning his pink stretchers, the frontman had a voice that
reminded me all too fondly of the colour grey. It was good and fine, yet
uninteresting. In saying this, the music the guitars were producing was
awesome. It was well construed and inviting, so I guess the simplicity
of the vocals on top works. Of note was the last song the band played.
It had a wicked guitar solo, and I so wish there had been more of it!
Once I Heart Hiroshima hit the stage, the whole dynamic of the
venue changed. Alhambra was full, not packed, but nicely full, and the
band responded to this in a big way. Susie Patten throughout the gig
just kept saying with all sincerity how appreciative they were that
everyone came out on a Tuesday night to see them play. She also remarked
that this gig meant so much more to them than their set at BDO.
IHH knocked my socks off. They played heaps of songs from Tuff Teef as well as The Rip,
but it was sons like “Shaketown” that really got the crowd going. There
was a group of barely 18 year olds right up against the stage who
amused me greatly. There was not one moment in the entire set that they
stopped dancing like maniacs. That’s the power of music and music played
passionately. I've never seen a band more enthused by what they are
playing than this band, especially Susie on the drums. In all, she broke
at least three drumsticks, while Matthew Somers broke two guitar
strings on the last “official” song alone and had to borrow a guitar for
the encore. You know you've played a good gig when things break, right?
This gig has restored my faith in indie music, but it is a sad day
when you know that you may never see the band play again. But that’s
music for you. Bands come, bands go. However, never let it be said that
they will be forgotten. Come and play again one day IHH. Yeah?
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Big Day Out - 20 January 2013, Gold Coast Parklands
So, let it be known that I until this day was a Big Day Out virgin
and might I say, what a ride! The day started slow and steady and ramped
up for one big party at the main stages.
Once through the doors, a quick turn about the Gold Coast Parklands was in order while the crowds were still thin. Although not as hot as the 46 degree day Sydney had for their BDO, it was still remarkably hot and shade was limited to spattering’s under trees.
Up first for the day was Sneeky Picnic, an all girl five-piece from the Gold Coast. They were rad! I couldn't have imagined a better start to the day. The band are still very rough, I mean the drummer couldn't keep a tempo to save her life because she was so busy doing tricks with her sticks, but they have so much potential. It’s not every day you see a chick rapping in a young band and between Jess Koroi and the singer Erin Ross, they led the band in well written tunes.
Catching the end of Toucan, it was clear the duo, accompanied by their friends, have a real clear vision as to the sound they make. It was pop but infused with roots and electro, and was really cool to hear. Up next in the same tent was Avalanche City; why have I not looked this man up before?! Absolutely sensational! It’s the “new” folk-pop sound that I have been searching for. They had a huge assortment of instruments that makes a good folk band.
I tried to have a look into Hunting Grounds, but the Vans Tent was packed and standing out in the sun in midday heat was too much to bear. They were sounding rad though! Grinspoon. They are such a solid band. They put on a remarkable show and were everything we've come to expect from the band. They played tracks from across their catalogue, but mainly tracks from their latest record.
At this time, it was time for some chow and of all the festivals I’ve been to, BDO certainly has the widest selection. I settled in on the top of a hill under a tree with my woodfired pizza and watched We All Want To play the Red Stage. They have a cool, chill vibe and were the perfect soundtrack to accompany lunch.
My second venturing to the Main Stage was for Band of Horses. The band was spot on and played a great set, but there was no magic in what they were playing. Vampire Weekend who were up next however were just sensational! They have the entire D barrier crowd dancing around like maniacs. I was one of these maniacs. This band is sensational and live, are even better. Frontman Ezra Koenig has such unique vocals that accompany the African influenced percussion so incredibly well.
The Yeah Yeah Yeahs continued to heat up the main stage, while over at the Lilypad, Hey Geronimo performed to a crowd of movers and shakers as they caught people's attention as they walked through the thoroughfare. This band has an undeniable talent for creating a hell good pop tune that, upon listening to, you can’t help but dance and be unconditionally happy. The new songs they have added to the setlist are no different. Kudos lads.
As the night was drawing to a close, The Killers were playing the main stage, and were the definite highlight of the night. The production of the set was phenomenal, and even though I was close to 150m back from the stage, it still felt like I was in the mosh. The camera work also has to be mentioned, as without such quality, that feeling wouldn't have been created. They played all the songs that everyone wanted to hear as well as songs from across their catalog. It was balanced and it had fireworks! Yes, at the end of the set, there were fireworks timed to be set off at pivotal moments in “When You Were Young”.
As everyone shifted their eyes to the right for the Red Hot Chili Peppers there was a feeling of excitement in the air, however that feeling was gone by the middle of the first song. The sound was terrible! I’m not talking average, but borderline unlistenable. From where I was standing, I could only hear the bass drum, and pretty much no vocals at all. And where The Killers used the video stream to their advantage, with the Chili Peppers, it felt like a pre-recorded video due to the amount of filter and editing to the live feed. If you couldn't see the stage itself, which oh-so-many people couldn't, then the feed didn't help you to experience the show at all. They played their classic hits and songs off their latest record, but I know from what I heard around me that people were got really frustrated and many left saying it wasn't even worth it. I was disappointed and I’m not even a die-hard RHCP fan. I hope that Adelaide fares better.
Despite the disappointment in sound at the Peppers, it was a day to remember with many highlights, including the heavy metal band Compressorhead who played in between each act on the main stages. I return to Brisbane with my BDO cherry popped and a wicked sunburn, despite the multiple reapplications of sunscreen, to prove it. Nicely done BDO.
Once through the doors, a quick turn about the Gold Coast Parklands was in order while the crowds were still thin. Although not as hot as the 46 degree day Sydney had for their BDO, it was still remarkably hot and shade was limited to spattering’s under trees.
Up first for the day was Sneeky Picnic, an all girl five-piece from the Gold Coast. They were rad! I couldn't have imagined a better start to the day. The band are still very rough, I mean the drummer couldn't keep a tempo to save her life because she was so busy doing tricks with her sticks, but they have so much potential. It’s not every day you see a chick rapping in a young band and between Jess Koroi and the singer Erin Ross, they led the band in well written tunes.
Catching the end of Toucan, it was clear the duo, accompanied by their friends, have a real clear vision as to the sound they make. It was pop but infused with roots and electro, and was really cool to hear. Up next in the same tent was Avalanche City; why have I not looked this man up before?! Absolutely sensational! It’s the “new” folk-pop sound that I have been searching for. They had a huge assortment of instruments that makes a good folk band.
I tried to have a look into Hunting Grounds, but the Vans Tent was packed and standing out in the sun in midday heat was too much to bear. They were sounding rad though! Grinspoon. They are such a solid band. They put on a remarkable show and were everything we've come to expect from the band. They played tracks from across their catalogue, but mainly tracks from their latest record.
At this time, it was time for some chow and of all the festivals I’ve been to, BDO certainly has the widest selection. I settled in on the top of a hill under a tree with my woodfired pizza and watched We All Want To play the Red Stage. They have a cool, chill vibe and were the perfect soundtrack to accompany lunch.
My second venturing to the Main Stage was for Band of Horses. The band was spot on and played a great set, but there was no magic in what they were playing. Vampire Weekend who were up next however were just sensational! They have the entire D barrier crowd dancing around like maniacs. I was one of these maniacs. This band is sensational and live, are even better. Frontman Ezra Koenig has such unique vocals that accompany the African influenced percussion so incredibly well.
The Yeah Yeah Yeahs continued to heat up the main stage, while over at the Lilypad, Hey Geronimo performed to a crowd of movers and shakers as they caught people's attention as they walked through the thoroughfare. This band has an undeniable talent for creating a hell good pop tune that, upon listening to, you can’t help but dance and be unconditionally happy. The new songs they have added to the setlist are no different. Kudos lads.
As the night was drawing to a close, The Killers were playing the main stage, and were the definite highlight of the night. The production of the set was phenomenal, and even though I was close to 150m back from the stage, it still felt like I was in the mosh. The camera work also has to be mentioned, as without such quality, that feeling wouldn't have been created. They played all the songs that everyone wanted to hear as well as songs from across their catalog. It was balanced and it had fireworks! Yes, at the end of the set, there were fireworks timed to be set off at pivotal moments in “When You Were Young”.
As everyone shifted their eyes to the right for the Red Hot Chili Peppers there was a feeling of excitement in the air, however that feeling was gone by the middle of the first song. The sound was terrible! I’m not talking average, but borderline unlistenable. From where I was standing, I could only hear the bass drum, and pretty much no vocals at all. And where The Killers used the video stream to their advantage, with the Chili Peppers, it felt like a pre-recorded video due to the amount of filter and editing to the live feed. If you couldn't see the stage itself, which oh-so-many people couldn't, then the feed didn't help you to experience the show at all. They played their classic hits and songs off their latest record, but I know from what I heard around me that people were got really frustrated and many left saying it wasn't even worth it. I was disappointed and I’m not even a die-hard RHCP fan. I hope that Adelaide fares better.
Despite the disappointment in sound at the Peppers, it was a day to remember with many highlights, including the heavy metal band Compressorhead who played in between each act on the main stages. I return to Brisbane with my BDO cherry popped and a wicked sunburn, despite the multiple reapplications of sunscreen, to prove it. Nicely done BDO.
Friday, January 11, 2013
Two Door Cinema Club - 7 January 2013, The Tivoli
w/ The Vaccines, The Jungle Giants
Two Door Cinema Club. The first and only time I have seen the band play was at Laneway two years ago. They were amazing them, sensational now.
Likewise, it’s been a long time since I'd seen The Jungle Giants play, and it’s surprising even now how much you actually miss a good live act. The band showcased a whole range of their pop hits and certainly got the crowd dancing in anticipation for the main act. Frontman Sam Hales has extraordinary vocal talent and creates that crazy party atmosphere. Cesira Aitken is an amazing guitarist, and tonight was her first time using a mic, and In “Mr. Polite” she provided some “hey’s”. Cute. I do love this band and I wait in anticipation for some new recorded material from them.
Next up were The Vaccines. I don’t really know what they have going on, but I like to think of them as Punk-Alt-Rock. Their set was full of short sharp to the point songs, which was cool, and although I was a bit stunned to begin with, they won me over by the end and had me dancing like a fool along with everyone else. Their frontman was all over the place and eccentric as anything. Loved it. The one thing that brings all three of these bands together was their lead guitar parts. They all have a sound that relies on these solos and the unique sound that it brings. The Vaccines are no exception. The parts were really complimentary, and work well.
Where do I even start with Two Door Cinema Club. I love this band so unconditionally much and it was such a privilege to see them live. The production of the show was incredible and whoever does their lighting design deserves to be bought a drink. So many flickering lights flickering in time with the music! The band themselves were sensational, and the music was flawless, however it did seem like they have been playing the same set for quite some while now. They energy was insane, but it was like they didn’t care where they were or who they were playing for.
Regardless, no one in the room could dispute the fact that they put on a hell good show. They had the whole room, especially the lower floor, dancing like lunatics. Their second song, “Undercover Martyn” was stupidly amazing, and is still one of my favorites alone with “I Can Talk”, which they played later in the set. When “Sun” came around you heard many, many voices singing along with frontman Alex Trimble’s smooth voice. Throughout the set lead guitarist, Sam Halliday’s guitar, intrigued me and I wish I could have seen it up close. He is such a sensational player, and really makes the band’s unique sound what it is. They played a good mix of songs from the latest release Beacon as well as a good selection from Tourist History. This was a really good thing. I though we had missed “What You Know”, but was very excited to have them play it as their final song in the encore. Brilliant.
What a show. It was a privilege to see the band play, and but I do hope they mix things up. I know they age old saying, stick to what works or whatever, but changing things up is also a good thing. It would make it even more sensational!
Two Door Cinema Club. The first and only time I have seen the band play was at Laneway two years ago. They were amazing them, sensational now.
Likewise, it’s been a long time since I'd seen The Jungle Giants play, and it’s surprising even now how much you actually miss a good live act. The band showcased a whole range of their pop hits and certainly got the crowd dancing in anticipation for the main act. Frontman Sam Hales has extraordinary vocal talent and creates that crazy party atmosphere. Cesira Aitken is an amazing guitarist, and tonight was her first time using a mic, and In “Mr. Polite” she provided some “hey’s”. Cute. I do love this band and I wait in anticipation for some new recorded material from them.
Next up were The Vaccines. I don’t really know what they have going on, but I like to think of them as Punk-Alt-Rock. Their set was full of short sharp to the point songs, which was cool, and although I was a bit stunned to begin with, they won me over by the end and had me dancing like a fool along with everyone else. Their frontman was all over the place and eccentric as anything. Loved it. The one thing that brings all three of these bands together was their lead guitar parts. They all have a sound that relies on these solos and the unique sound that it brings. The Vaccines are no exception. The parts were really complimentary, and work well.
Where do I even start with Two Door Cinema Club. I love this band so unconditionally much and it was such a privilege to see them live. The production of the show was incredible and whoever does their lighting design deserves to be bought a drink. So many flickering lights flickering in time with the music! The band themselves were sensational, and the music was flawless, however it did seem like they have been playing the same set for quite some while now. They energy was insane, but it was like they didn’t care where they were or who they were playing for.
Regardless, no one in the room could dispute the fact that they put on a hell good show. They had the whole room, especially the lower floor, dancing like lunatics. Their second song, “Undercover Martyn” was stupidly amazing, and is still one of my favorites alone with “I Can Talk”, which they played later in the set. When “Sun” came around you heard many, many voices singing along with frontman Alex Trimble’s smooth voice. Throughout the set lead guitarist, Sam Halliday’s guitar, intrigued me and I wish I could have seen it up close. He is such a sensational player, and really makes the band’s unique sound what it is. They played a good mix of songs from the latest release Beacon as well as a good selection from Tourist History. This was a really good thing. I though we had missed “What You Know”, but was very excited to have them play it as their final song in the encore. Brilliant.
What a show. It was a privilege to see the band play, and but I do hope they mix things up. I know they age old saying, stick to what works or whatever, but changing things up is also a good thing. It would make it even more sensational!
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