Band: Simon and Garfunkel
Venue: Rod Laver Arena
Date: 26th June 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Tonight Old Friends gather for a memorable evening of hit songs from the 70's and 80's. Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel bring all their hits to a sold out show at Rod Laver and they do not disappoint. The two have been friends since school days and recorded their first record in 1957 and over the years have broken up a few times. In February 2009 Simon had Garfunkel appear as a special guest for an encore at Simon's show and a joint tour soon followed.
Tonight started with a quick video presentation of their life from school, to recording, to their hit songs then the video ended at Rod Laver Arena, a great capture of their life in the spotlight.
Hazy Shade of Winter was the first song of the night and I could feel the love in the arena for this duo. I am a Rock soon followed and their 10 piece band were on a roll tonight joining the duo performing song after song. Scaffolding which were placed in a tree formation hit the roof and the arms of the tree reached out over the stage - the scaffolding had lights and speakers attached to them and this look really suited the style of the performance tonight.
Scarborough Fair showed off more of their talented voices and Homeward Bound delivered an acoustic set from Simon. Old movies displayed throughout the show, showing good times and old times. Mrs Robinson was the crowd pleaser and Bright Eyes was delivered by Garfunkel with such beauty in his voice. Diamonds on the Soles of her Shoes was a great song live and got many people up and dancing, followed by Bridge Over Troubled Water (Garfunkle wrote for Simon) which recieved a standing ovation. Encore followed by The Boxer and the night was ended on the song Cecilia. Introductions of all 10 band members and big thanks for coming tonight. I leave the venue knowing I've seen a bit of history.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Get Out of Billy's Dreams and into the Palais Theatre
Name of Band: Billy Ocean
Venue: Palais Theatre
Date: 12th June 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
There was a cancelled support for tonights show so it was a bit of a wait for those who came early, but it didn't matter as Billy Ocean and band were going to entertain us tonight and we were all ready to dance in our seats. A fantastic show from Billy Ocean (aka Leslie Sebastian Charles) and his 10 piece orchestra. Displaying gleaming white teeth, which almost stole the show, Billy showed the crowd that he really is a legend (at a mere 59 years of age) and it was the songs of the 1980's that hit hard with the crowd. His 1976 hit Love Really Hurts Without You was the show opener and songs Suddenly and There'll be Sad Songs got the mood high as we all knew the bigger hits were to follow. Get Out of My Dreams allowed youngies to leap from their seats with hands pumping like time had gone back into the 1980's, and the crowd fully expoded into these hits by singing each song word for word. Loverboy was a beauty and When The Going Gets Tough was sung the security had a hard time trying to get people back into their seats whilst the crowd leapt around.
Billy displayed plenty of moves and grooves, dressed in a suit for the evening. Long hair and a happy persona were displayed throughout. How this wasn't close to a sell out is odd. The Palais was over half packed tonight and I bet many people are screwing up their faces with dispair as they missed a top show from a man who was a big 80's hit in the pop charts and his best of albums are double platinum sellers that continue to sell today.
The night was ended with Caribbean Queen which again got the crowd leaping about. Billy put on a fantastic show and with his orchestra to boot, and we were treated to a great night out.
Venue: Palais Theatre
Date: 12th June 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
There was a cancelled support for tonights show so it was a bit of a wait for those who came early, but it didn't matter as Billy Ocean and band were going to entertain us tonight and we were all ready to dance in our seats. A fantastic show from Billy Ocean (aka Leslie Sebastian Charles) and his 10 piece orchestra. Displaying gleaming white teeth, which almost stole the show, Billy showed the crowd that he really is a legend (at a mere 59 years of age) and it was the songs of the 1980's that hit hard with the crowd. His 1976 hit Love Really Hurts Without You was the show opener and songs Suddenly and There'll be Sad Songs got the mood high as we all knew the bigger hits were to follow. Get Out of My Dreams allowed youngies to leap from their seats with hands pumping like time had gone back into the 1980's, and the crowd fully expoded into these hits by singing each song word for word. Loverboy was a beauty and When The Going Gets Tough was sung the security had a hard time trying to get people back into their seats whilst the crowd leapt around.
Billy displayed plenty of moves and grooves, dressed in a suit for the evening. Long hair and a happy persona were displayed throughout. How this wasn't close to a sell out is odd. The Palais was over half packed tonight and I bet many people are screwing up their faces with dispair as they missed a top show from a man who was a big 80's hit in the pop charts and his best of albums are double platinum sellers that continue to sell today.
The night was ended with Caribbean Queen which again got the crowd leaping about. Billy put on a fantastic show and with his orchestra to boot, and we were treated to a great night out.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Geoffrey Gurramul Yunupingu
Band: Gurramul with support from Ego Lemos
Venue: Palais Theatre
Date: 23rd May 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Tonight I prepared myself to see a muscian who has been nicknamed The Voice of an Angel and I'm not sure if timing was deliberate but the show was played on the day the AFL call Dreamtime. Gurramul is supported tonight by a East Timor talented man called Ego Lemos with two fellow band members. Together the trio of highly talented musicians spoke and sung about the environment, politics and other issues with force and passion in their native tongue. In East Timor Ego Lemos is recognised as their top musician and tonight they brought their life and music into the Palais Theatre and they didn't dissapoint the crowd. A wide variety of punters joined the beautiful Palais Theatre in experiencing some very cultural musicians, be it five year olds to seventy five year young.
Soon the man the crowd came to see appeared. Gurramul was seated with guitar and into the music he leap. A shy guy who barely spoke throughout the show, yet his voice displayed no hint of shyness at all. Gurramul has around him his double bass player, acoustic guitarist and four violinists who captured his music whilst he played his native music in his native tongue. The backdrop consisted of three screens that translated to us in english the words that Gurramul sang about. This was a wonderful addition to the show as it brough awareness about his life and history that we may never have known. The screens also displayed pictures that were just beautiful. Although Gurramul barely spoke, his bassist told us stories and explained songs to us. When Gurramul did speak (to say thank you) the house lept into full applaude.
Gurramul's last song about his blindness was very touching and although he never does a encore, tonight he came back out with Ego Lemus and band for one last song.
Gurramul got the standing ovation he so duly deserved. Thank you for a perfect show.
Venue: Palais Theatre
Date: 23rd May 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Tonight I prepared myself to see a muscian who has been nicknamed The Voice of an Angel and I'm not sure if timing was deliberate but the show was played on the day the AFL call Dreamtime. Gurramul is supported tonight by a East Timor talented man called Ego Lemos with two fellow band members. Together the trio of highly talented musicians spoke and sung about the environment, politics and other issues with force and passion in their native tongue. In East Timor Ego Lemos is recognised as their top musician and tonight they brought their life and music into the Palais Theatre and they didn't dissapoint the crowd. A wide variety of punters joined the beautiful Palais Theatre in experiencing some very cultural musicians, be it five year olds to seventy five year young.
Soon the man the crowd came to see appeared. Gurramul was seated with guitar and into the music he leap. A shy guy who barely spoke throughout the show, yet his voice displayed no hint of shyness at all. Gurramul has around him his double bass player, acoustic guitarist and four violinists who captured his music whilst he played his native music in his native tongue. The backdrop consisted of three screens that translated to us in english the words that Gurramul sang about. This was a wonderful addition to the show as it brough awareness about his life and history that we may never have known. The screens also displayed pictures that were just beautiful. Although Gurramul barely spoke, his bassist told us stories and explained songs to us. When Gurramul did speak (to say thank you) the house lept into full applaude.
Gurramul's last song about his blindness was very touching and although he never does a encore, tonight he came back out with Ego Lemus and band for one last song.
Gurramul got the standing ovation he so duly deserved. Thank you for a perfect show.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Sierra Fin headline a dazzling array of performers at The Evelyn
Band: Sierra Fin, Plastic Palace Alice, The Good China & The Mischief
Venue: The Evelyn Hotel
Date: 18th April 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
To kick off the night The Mischief takes the stage with zing. A band that bloom from Sydney, they are a little bit country and little bit western mixed with a little bit of punkfuzz. Filled with frivolity and creation they fill the room with 60’s beat, punk and groove tunes that allow the punters to rise out of their chairs for a dance. Songs include Gentleman, Hollow Gold and On the Day. They won the 2008 NSW MTV kickstart Competition and have played the circuit with many well known bands.Next off the chopping block is The Good China (Melbourne) and they have an indie and pop sound, mixed with Chinese Pop ! They won the AIR New Music Prize at the 2009 St Kilda Festival (which will see them play the stage at St Kilda Festival in 2010) and they have also been part of JJJ unearthed. The eight piece band amaze many punters tonight with a plethora of instruments including, violin, banjo and melodica (gotta love this instrument), the band fill every orifice with floaty, groovy, happy, folk rock tunes. We are kept on our toes by band members moving around to play each other’s instruments. The show is very enjoyable and includes songs 39 Black, Window Seat and Turn the Page. The set ends on a collective noise and we’re left wondering how much better can the next band be!
Plastic Palace Alice (Melbourne) is the third act up tonight. A smartly dressed band which includes a male with a green bow in his hair!! A xylophone starts for No Shame and the six members bring a lush amount of rock and groove to the mixture. Explode is a new song and they follow this by Angle Matter and I’m Glad you Came. I’m sure I heard a bit of country clown rock at times with a cocktail of lush theatrical vibes thrown into the mix. Great band to groove too whilst the music is complimented with haunting female vocal s (*Emily Taylor*),- there is something special about the female voice I’m told by a punter who sat back with eyes closed taking her voice in. The bands changes instruments between them as they tried to upstage The Good China band.
Where does one start with a band who so aptly names their tour the Meet and Greet Tour? Sierra Fin are four young men hot off the press of their released EP entitled, Shake Stare Sleep, they headline some truly great acts at the Evelyn Hotel tonight . I can safely say the band pull off headlining the stage and they stand out with their voluptuous sound of orchestral experimental indie pop rock. The sound between music and noise can be flimsy and the results can end a bands lifeline. Sierra Fin craft their music to listening pleasure and the result is fine, dam fine, music.
First song to be launched into our ears tonight is Over my Head which is impacted initially by a boom and lead by the passions of singer Russ Tainton. Russ puts his all into the music, and the next few songs Polystyrene Dream, ScrapBook and Out of Favours show a very passionate front man and a band who seem right at home with the music that is Sierra Fin. At the back Frosty lets his ambitions loose on drum, whilst Oli slowly grooves away on bass leaving Joel pumping the keyboards. All members looking smart in shirts and vests and together they harmonise well. At one point we are greeted by a punter displaying some form of a monkey dance, perhaps the happy music allowed her to beam her energy into another type of mammal!Acoustic guitar is brought out for Been Sleeping (which is the first song off EP), a rocking song with an upbeat tempo and ends with the sound that is like twittering birds. Some ukulele trouble which is short lived then off they head into Claustrophobia, a rocking song where the keys gel with immense pleasure. Collaboration of the senses overloads and the drum solo takes hold. Russ heads to keyboard and mentions that they too can swap instruments. A mellow yet vibrant song, Wrapped in Plastic, that brings home a stellar performance. Russ pulling all the moves on the key solo which is touched by drums then Russ decides a bit of feet keyboard action is required much to the delight of the punters watching. Oli is the demure member of the group on stage fulfilling his ambience with rhythmic rustic moves. Russ sings the start of the next song Like a Stone and a touch of drum is added, then this thunderous tune is filled with gusty bass, a song complimenting the talent of the musicians. Russ gets members of all bands who have played tonight out from the audience and up on stage for the song The Square which has an Irish twist to it. The crowd can’t help but be pulled in to the music that is offered by Sierra Fin and yes, a meet and greet after the show is welcomed by all.
www.fasterlouder.com.au
Venue: The Evelyn Hotel
Date: 18th April 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
To kick off the night The Mischief takes the stage with zing. A band that bloom from Sydney, they are a little bit country and little bit western mixed with a little bit of punkfuzz. Filled with frivolity and creation they fill the room with 60’s beat, punk and groove tunes that allow the punters to rise out of their chairs for a dance. Songs include Gentleman, Hollow Gold and On the Day. They won the 2008 NSW MTV kickstart Competition and have played the circuit with many well known bands.Next off the chopping block is The Good China (Melbourne) and they have an indie and pop sound, mixed with Chinese Pop ! They won the AIR New Music Prize at the 2009 St Kilda Festival (which will see them play the stage at St Kilda Festival in 2010) and they have also been part of JJJ unearthed. The eight piece band amaze many punters tonight with a plethora of instruments including, violin, banjo and melodica (gotta love this instrument), the band fill every orifice with floaty, groovy, happy, folk rock tunes. We are kept on our toes by band members moving around to play each other’s instruments. The show is very enjoyable and includes songs 39 Black, Window Seat and Turn the Page. The set ends on a collective noise and we’re left wondering how much better can the next band be!
Plastic Palace Alice (Melbourne) is the third act up tonight. A smartly dressed band which includes a male with a green bow in his hair!! A xylophone starts for No Shame and the six members bring a lush amount of rock and groove to the mixture. Explode is a new song and they follow this by Angle Matter and I’m Glad you Came. I’m sure I heard a bit of country clown rock at times with a cocktail of lush theatrical vibes thrown into the mix. Great band to groove too whilst the music is complimented with haunting female vocal s (*Emily Taylor*),- there is something special about the female voice I’m told by a punter who sat back with eyes closed taking her voice in. The bands changes instruments between them as they tried to upstage The Good China band.
Where does one start with a band who so aptly names their tour the Meet and Greet Tour? Sierra Fin are four young men hot off the press of their released EP entitled, Shake Stare Sleep, they headline some truly great acts at the Evelyn Hotel tonight . I can safely say the band pull off headlining the stage and they stand out with their voluptuous sound of orchestral experimental indie pop rock. The sound between music and noise can be flimsy and the results can end a bands lifeline. Sierra Fin craft their music to listening pleasure and the result is fine, dam fine, music.
First song to be launched into our ears tonight is Over my Head which is impacted initially by a boom and lead by the passions of singer Russ Tainton. Russ puts his all into the music, and the next few songs Polystyrene Dream, ScrapBook and Out of Favours show a very passionate front man and a band who seem right at home with the music that is Sierra Fin. At the back Frosty lets his ambitions loose on drum, whilst Oli slowly grooves away on bass leaving Joel pumping the keyboards. All members looking smart in shirts and vests and together they harmonise well. At one point we are greeted by a punter displaying some form of a monkey dance, perhaps the happy music allowed her to beam her energy into another type of mammal!Acoustic guitar is brought out for Been Sleeping (which is the first song off EP), a rocking song with an upbeat tempo and ends with the sound that is like twittering birds. Some ukulele trouble which is short lived then off they head into Claustrophobia, a rocking song where the keys gel with immense pleasure. Collaboration of the senses overloads and the drum solo takes hold. Russ heads to keyboard and mentions that they too can swap instruments. A mellow yet vibrant song, Wrapped in Plastic, that brings home a stellar performance. Russ pulling all the moves on the key solo which is touched by drums then Russ decides a bit of feet keyboard action is required much to the delight of the punters watching. Oli is the demure member of the group on stage fulfilling his ambience with rhythmic rustic moves. Russ sings the start of the next song Like a Stone and a touch of drum is added, then this thunderous tune is filled with gusty bass, a song complimenting the talent of the musicians. Russ gets members of all bands who have played tonight out from the audience and up on stage for the song The Square which has an Irish twist to it. The crowd can’t help but be pulled in to the music that is offered by Sierra Fin and yes, a meet and greet after the show is welcomed by all.
www.fasterlouder.com.au
Keane at the Palace Theatre
Band: Keane
Venue: The Palace
Date: 16th April 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Keane are back, better than ever and taking the stage as its mission in life to reward their punters with some top notch piano rock music. Having sold over 8 million records, the UK (East Sussex) band, bring their latest album to our shores and what better way than to spend a Thursday night in Melbourne's fabulous venue, the Palace, watching a band who wants to take the stage over.
It’s been 5 years since Keane hit our shores and the crowd’s reactions tonight will tell me the band is forgiven! Keane are known for their piano song introductions using delayed and distortion effects on the keys. It was in the year 2000 when the band initially tried this different approach in the studio and it’s certainly paid off. Their first two albums have been listed as best albums of all time in certain UK magazines and they have a string of awards to add to their collection. The new album Perfect Symmetry has challenged the band and they love it!
I enter the venue and take pride in getting rather close to stage as there was a large area unfilled by punters. It didn't take me long to realize that it may have been empty due to a certain person in front of me dropping a few el-stinko's. So whilst I'm trying my best to catch the essence of the gig and not of that around me, I found I had to move about 3 songs into the set to get away from the smell! I pity those I left behind.
Keane fans are a variety of people of all ages (many with UK accents) and there is a solid crowd in the venue tonight. The punters are more than ready for the band and a grumbling through the speakers tells us its time- lights dim and out they come, Tom Chaplin on vocals and guitar (such engaging front man skills), Richard Hughes on drums, Tim Rice-Oxley on piano and tour member Jesse Quin on bass. They start the show with The Lovers are Losing which is the first single off their new album Perfect Symmetry, and Keane tell us this is their best album yet.
Everybody’s Changing is a boppy song, Tim going off like Paul Mac on keys, bopping and grooving away and spending about quarter of the time actually sitting on the stool, his performance tonight is dramatically pleasing to watch! Bend and Break takes us through some amazing light display, whilst singer Tom glides up and down the stage greeting fans and taking in the vibrant crowd. Nothing to Say is such a fantastic song, and the song is done justice live. Tom has a strong live voice which carries throughout the entire show without any form of tiredness. The song Again and Again has lyrics that glide around the room and next few songs This is the Last Time and Spiralling is music that takes me back in time to the 80's. Spiralling is a pretty song with lots of Woo’s blended into crowd participation. Keane certainly enjoy and are grateful to the crowd for clapping and cheering which is constant between songs - and loud!
The next section takes us on an acoustic edge with Tom singing Your Eyes Open then Try Again to which this song is joined with melodic keys and a big tom/bass drum that is incorporated into the tune and gives extra sound to the already defined song. Tom certainly enjoys this part of the set and the punters lap it up, they just love him!
Back to full band and lights and more grooving moves, You Haven't Told Me Anything ends with humble grins from the boys as the applause fills the room one more time. Can these boys get enough of this audience? I don’t think so! You Don’t See Me has a nice acoustic vocal start with shakers then the drum kicks in and is carried on with lush vocals delightfully wrapped in keys, the song ends with a boom and smiles galore. The album title is next, Perfect Symmetry, with sexy vocals from Tom blended with backing vocals by the rest of band, this fills the song up and it sizzles for crowd. Tom tells us we all need to raise the roof for Somewhere Only We Know which is soon followed by a high climax from Crystal Ball, definitely a stand out song. Tom is like a monkey on stage, and this song is such a funky moving song and before we know it, the thumping drums tell us the show has ended.
Thank you from all band members who leap up and clap us back and off they prowl. The crowd won’t give up, they beg for more and naturally Keane come back. Keyboard start and high vocals launch into Better Than This with jazzy snare sounds and a polished bass. Next song is delivered with bright white lights and a powerful rock start which then heads down a notch for Is it any Wonder and punters around me scream for joy. The band launch slowly into the song Bedshaped (not sure this is a fitting last song) and Tom’s vocals are still sounding glorious – his voice has barely missed a beat tonight. The crowd sing a long to this song, knowing it’s the last. Will we have to wait another 5 years? Judging from the Keane members, I don’t think so.
www.thedwarf.com.au
Venue: The Palace
Date: 16th April 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Keane are back, better than ever and taking the stage as its mission in life to reward their punters with some top notch piano rock music. Having sold over 8 million records, the UK (East Sussex) band, bring their latest album to our shores and what better way than to spend a Thursday night in Melbourne's fabulous venue, the Palace, watching a band who wants to take the stage over.
It’s been 5 years since Keane hit our shores and the crowd’s reactions tonight will tell me the band is forgiven! Keane are known for their piano song introductions using delayed and distortion effects on the keys. It was in the year 2000 when the band initially tried this different approach in the studio and it’s certainly paid off. Their first two albums have been listed as best albums of all time in certain UK magazines and they have a string of awards to add to their collection. The new album Perfect Symmetry has challenged the band and they love it!
I enter the venue and take pride in getting rather close to stage as there was a large area unfilled by punters. It didn't take me long to realize that it may have been empty due to a certain person in front of me dropping a few el-stinko's. So whilst I'm trying my best to catch the essence of the gig and not of that around me, I found I had to move about 3 songs into the set to get away from the smell! I pity those I left behind.
Keane fans are a variety of people of all ages (many with UK accents) and there is a solid crowd in the venue tonight. The punters are more than ready for the band and a grumbling through the speakers tells us its time- lights dim and out they come, Tom Chaplin on vocals and guitar (such engaging front man skills), Richard Hughes on drums, Tim Rice-Oxley on piano and tour member Jesse Quin on bass. They start the show with The Lovers are Losing which is the first single off their new album Perfect Symmetry, and Keane tell us this is their best album yet.
Everybody’s Changing is a boppy song, Tim going off like Paul Mac on keys, bopping and grooving away and spending about quarter of the time actually sitting on the stool, his performance tonight is dramatically pleasing to watch! Bend and Break takes us through some amazing light display, whilst singer Tom glides up and down the stage greeting fans and taking in the vibrant crowd. Nothing to Say is such a fantastic song, and the song is done justice live. Tom has a strong live voice which carries throughout the entire show without any form of tiredness. The song Again and Again has lyrics that glide around the room and next few songs This is the Last Time and Spiralling is music that takes me back in time to the 80's. Spiralling is a pretty song with lots of Woo’s blended into crowd participation. Keane certainly enjoy and are grateful to the crowd for clapping and cheering which is constant between songs - and loud!
The next section takes us on an acoustic edge with Tom singing Your Eyes Open then Try Again to which this song is joined with melodic keys and a big tom/bass drum that is incorporated into the tune and gives extra sound to the already defined song. Tom certainly enjoys this part of the set and the punters lap it up, they just love him!
Back to full band and lights and more grooving moves, You Haven't Told Me Anything ends with humble grins from the boys as the applause fills the room one more time. Can these boys get enough of this audience? I don’t think so! You Don’t See Me has a nice acoustic vocal start with shakers then the drum kicks in and is carried on with lush vocals delightfully wrapped in keys, the song ends with a boom and smiles galore. The album title is next, Perfect Symmetry, with sexy vocals from Tom blended with backing vocals by the rest of band, this fills the song up and it sizzles for crowd. Tom tells us we all need to raise the roof for Somewhere Only We Know which is soon followed by a high climax from Crystal Ball, definitely a stand out song. Tom is like a monkey on stage, and this song is such a funky moving song and before we know it, the thumping drums tell us the show has ended.
Thank you from all band members who leap up and clap us back and off they prowl. The crowd won’t give up, they beg for more and naturally Keane come back. Keyboard start and high vocals launch into Better Than This with jazzy snare sounds and a polished bass. Next song is delivered with bright white lights and a powerful rock start which then heads down a notch for Is it any Wonder and punters around me scream for joy. The band launch slowly into the song Bedshaped (not sure this is a fitting last song) and Tom’s vocals are still sounding glorious – his voice has barely missed a beat tonight. The crowd sing a long to this song, knowing it’s the last. Will we have to wait another 5 years? Judging from the Keane members, I don’t think so.
www.thedwarf.com.au
Friday, April 3, 2009
Snow Patrol and Jenny Lewis hit the Palais theatre
Band: Snow Patrol with support from Jenny Lewis
Venue: Palais Theatre - St Kilda
Date: 2nd April 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Jenny Lewis is one hot buxom American babe. Leggy with a voice to match her startling presence. Jenny's style tonight is country rock but many people may know her from the indie rock band Rilo Kiley as well as her many walk in's on various sitcom's from the 1980's and many movie roles to boot. I'd never heard her music before and I was blown away by her voice and stage presence. Tonight there is a full band joining in harmonies for some songs as well as a male singer who belts out a few groovy tunes himself. Jenny is one person you all need to see live. I think I turned to the other side whilst seeing her performance! She may just be the next Dolly Parton!
A half hour break and enter an extremely loud Snow Patrol to a crowd full of beer and water (hot in the venue tonight). Yes I actually had to put earplugs in (voluntarily!!). A practically sold out show that almost did blow the roof with their music. Lots of hits were played tonight and the crowd were really nuts. A northern Irish/Scottish band with many punters of the same lingo, supporting flags and rather interesting dance moves (in dress circle anyway!). I enjoyed the set and I thought the light show was dazzling - many colours coating the stage and giving it presence. Belle and Sebastian drummer (see supergroup) joined them tonight and all Snow Patrol members pumped the stage at the Palais Theatre.
Venue: Palais Theatre - St Kilda
Date: 2nd April 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Jenny Lewis is one hot buxom American babe. Leggy with a voice to match her startling presence. Jenny's style tonight is country rock but many people may know her from the indie rock band Rilo Kiley as well as her many walk in's on various sitcom's from the 1980's and many movie roles to boot. I'd never heard her music before and I was blown away by her voice and stage presence. Tonight there is a full band joining in harmonies for some songs as well as a male singer who belts out a few groovy tunes himself. Jenny is one person you all need to see live. I think I turned to the other side whilst seeing her performance! She may just be the next Dolly Parton!
A half hour break and enter an extremely loud Snow Patrol to a crowd full of beer and water (hot in the venue tonight). Yes I actually had to put earplugs in (voluntarily!!). A practically sold out show that almost did blow the roof with their music. Lots of hits were played tonight and the crowd were really nuts. A northern Irish/Scottish band with many punters of the same lingo, supporting flags and rather interesting dance moves (in dress circle anyway!). I enjoyed the set and I thought the light show was dazzling - many colours coating the stage and giving it presence. Belle and Sebastian drummer (see supergroup) joined them tonight and all Snow Patrol members pumped the stage at the Palais Theatre.
Couting Crows at the Palais Theatre
Band: Counting Crows with support from Clinton Cryton
Venue: Palais Theatre
Date: 30th March 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
The night started with many of us wondering who Clinton is, and I guess you can say his style is like Jack Johnson, similar looks and even similar in wardrobe. The crowd enjoyed his music which fulfilled a laid back, cruisy sound and got punters out to the merchandise stand to purchase his cd. He obligated his wonderment with the punters by signing cd's after the show.
Counting Crows started with a big bang and the crowd lept up in their seats with high anticipation of seeing a band who hasn't toured our land for 14 years. The sound was perfect tonight and the set list a completely different list than their first show on 27th March at the Palais. I was a bit disappointed as I didn't get to hear the songs I knew the most but I got to hear many other gracious songs which include Sullivan Street (magic song), A Murder of One and You Can't Count on Me. Adam Duritz is the frontman (wearing a Kiss tee shirt) who owns the stage by plonking himself on any surface for a sit down sing, shaking hands of the crowd and jiggling his booty! David Bryson (guitar), Charles Gillingham (keyboards), David Immergluck (guitar), Dan Vickrey (guitar), Jim Bogios (drums), and Millard Powers (bass) all took the show to great heights that were appreciated by a very full Palais Theatre tonight.
Other songs of the night included Miami and Los Angeles and we were blessed with a show of high standard and one to take to work tomorrow and chat about over the water cooler.
Venue: Palais Theatre
Date: 30th March 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
The night started with many of us wondering who Clinton is, and I guess you can say his style is like Jack Johnson, similar looks and even similar in wardrobe. The crowd enjoyed his music which fulfilled a laid back, cruisy sound and got punters out to the merchandise stand to purchase his cd. He obligated his wonderment with the punters by signing cd's after the show.
Counting Crows started with a big bang and the crowd lept up in their seats with high anticipation of seeing a band who hasn't toured our land for 14 years. The sound was perfect tonight and the set list a completely different list than their first show on 27th March at the Palais. I was a bit disappointed as I didn't get to hear the songs I knew the most but I got to hear many other gracious songs which include Sullivan Street (magic song), A Murder of One and You Can't Count on Me. Adam Duritz is the frontman (wearing a Kiss tee shirt) who owns the stage by plonking himself on any surface for a sit down sing, shaking hands of the crowd and jiggling his booty! David Bryson (guitar), Charles Gillingham (keyboards), David Immergluck (guitar), Dan Vickrey (guitar), Jim Bogios (drums), and Millard Powers (bass) all took the show to great heights that were appreciated by a very full Palais Theatre tonight.
Other songs of the night included Miami and Los Angeles and we were blessed with a show of high standard and one to take to work tomorrow and chat about over the water cooler.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Duffy takes on the local Sydney icon
Band: Duffy with support from Andy Bull
Venue: Sydney Opera House - Concert Hall
Date: 26th March 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
I was highly excited to head into the Concert Hall at the Sydney Opera House, an Aussie icon, and somewhere I've never seen live music before. Lots of people dress up for the occasion and I'm sure it's like this most of the time. We enter and take our seats (70's decor inside which is actually 'in' again) and take in the music of Andy Bull. I think my friends and I spent most of the set wondering if we were watching a guy or girl (sorry Andy) but seriously from where we sat, back in row O) this person looked like a bloke but sung like a girl, and even spoke like a girl. A local talent who is just as excited about being at the opera house as I am gave a lovely performance of vocals and keys. Last cover was Electric Feel, the MGMT tune. So during the break we google'd and discovered we were watching a bloke! woah, one out of three were correct. We decided to head outside and check out the lovely bay views and here I discovered the opera house has bathroom tiles all over it, rather hilarious I thought!
Packed house which is all geared up to watch the Welsh singer who has taken some of the world by storm, she has been noted as the new Dusty Springfield and likened to Amy Winehouse (not in the drug sense!). Out Duffy comes singing my favourite song, Rockferry, and with gracious stage presence she swings the microphone like she owns the room and she is wearing a little black dress tonight which is her fashion norm. A pint sized rock star who displays a huge talent on stage. Initially the sound appears too strong for the venue but that thought didn't last too long. This chick can seriously belt out a decent note. After two songs the dress is off and underneath is short shorts and top. Duffy sings Serious then Warwick Avenue and is joined by two backing vocals who look like twins themselves!
Syrup and Honey is just Duffy and guitar which fills the room with mystic motion, then Stepping Stone (with some cheesy moves by the backing singers) . A few cover songs throughout the set but its her own music that fills the room with happiness tonight. Delayed Devotion brings out some crooners and Mercy has many up in their seats pumped by this energy driven song. Encore already and back for a few more songs of the less pumped variety. Distant Dreamer is the song for Duffy to end on tonight and we take away with us a night to remember, a special night at a special (white tiled) palace.
Venue: Sydney Opera House - Concert Hall
Date: 26th March 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
I was highly excited to head into the Concert Hall at the Sydney Opera House, an Aussie icon, and somewhere I've never seen live music before. Lots of people dress up for the occasion and I'm sure it's like this most of the time. We enter and take our seats (70's decor inside which is actually 'in' again) and take in the music of Andy Bull. I think my friends and I spent most of the set wondering if we were watching a guy or girl (sorry Andy) but seriously from where we sat, back in row O) this person looked like a bloke but sung like a girl, and even spoke like a girl. A local talent who is just as excited about being at the opera house as I am gave a lovely performance of vocals and keys. Last cover was Electric Feel, the MGMT tune. So during the break we google'd and discovered we were watching a bloke! woah, one out of three were correct. We decided to head outside and check out the lovely bay views and here I discovered the opera house has bathroom tiles all over it, rather hilarious I thought!
Packed house which is all geared up to watch the Welsh singer who has taken some of the world by storm, she has been noted as the new Dusty Springfield and likened to Amy Winehouse (not in the drug sense!). Out Duffy comes singing my favourite song, Rockferry, and with gracious stage presence she swings the microphone like she owns the room and she is wearing a little black dress tonight which is her fashion norm. A pint sized rock star who displays a huge talent on stage. Initially the sound appears too strong for the venue but that thought didn't last too long. This chick can seriously belt out a decent note. After two songs the dress is off and underneath is short shorts and top. Duffy sings Serious then Warwick Avenue and is joined by two backing vocals who look like twins themselves!
Syrup and Honey is just Duffy and guitar which fills the room with mystic motion, then Stepping Stone (with some cheesy moves by the backing singers) . A few cover songs throughout the set but its her own music that fills the room with happiness tonight. Delayed Devotion brings out some crooners and Mercy has many up in their seats pumped by this energy driven song. Encore already and back for a few more songs of the less pumped variety. Distant Dreamer is the song for Duffy to end on tonight and we take away with us a night to remember, a special night at a special (white tiled) palace.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Green grass, no mud, simply Golden
Band: Golden Plains Music Festival
Venue: Meredith Ampitheatre
Date: 9th and 10th March 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Ah Golden Plains, come one, come all. No bottles, no dogs and no dickheads. It doesn't get much easier than that. Two car loads of us entered the site within minutes and found a cool possie on Highway to Hell path (turned out to be not so cool due to chairs being stolen - usually unheard of at Meredith), tents up and sorted it was time to get the beers ready in the mini esky's and head down to the ampitheatre. A sold out crowd as per usual, and it was good to see the Nolan's checking out the vibe too. A wander around and then it was time to plonk ourselves on the grass, yes green grass which was strange at first - ahh how I've missed it. The time felt like about 5pm cos we got there early but it was only 2pm! So.... lots of hilarity amongst the crowd (and us), funky costumes, silly costumes and many people in animal costumes (found out later that a facebook site called golden plains open range zoo is the reason behind all the animal costumes!). Mogwai were fantastic giving us a stellar instrumental performance, and Black Machines were great too (anyone got a flipper?). As someone in our group said, they are like Judith Durnam with Wolfmother! I was disapointed with Of Montreal, not as good as what I'd read about. You Am I topped the bill tonight, less crazy than usual but Tim Rogers in a green suit with a large bow tie (yuk!) gave the crowd what they came for - a jolly good time. A late night and a cosy warm tent before a sleep in and then time for upsie's to check out more bands around lunchtime. Two egg sandwiches later we saw Bridezilla who I find are always a great watch then Pivot who were a cruisy instrumental group, Old Crow Medicine Man had that hill billy kicking feel about them, definately got the crowd warming up! Time for more walkies and good ole hare krisna food - go the snack plate! Then it was time for more bands including The Church who have still got it and the crowd seemed very pumped for this set, The Drones and highlight of the night was Gary Numan, fantastic set, fantastic voice. As a volunteer it was my shift of midnight till 4am to work where, as crowd carer, with a monkey, we wandered around campsites making sure all was okay, and with looking at ping pong tables, pool tables and bars, all was okay in golden plains land.
Venue: Meredith Ampitheatre
Date: 9th and 10th March 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Ah Golden Plains, come one, come all. No bottles, no dogs and no dickheads. It doesn't get much easier than that. Two car loads of us entered the site within minutes and found a cool possie on Highway to Hell path (turned out to be not so cool due to chairs being stolen - usually unheard of at Meredith), tents up and sorted it was time to get the beers ready in the mini esky's and head down to the ampitheatre. A sold out crowd as per usual, and it was good to see the Nolan's checking out the vibe too. A wander around and then it was time to plonk ourselves on the grass, yes green grass which was strange at first - ahh how I've missed it. The time felt like about 5pm cos we got there early but it was only 2pm! So.... lots of hilarity amongst the crowd (and us), funky costumes, silly costumes and many people in animal costumes (found out later that a facebook site called golden plains open range zoo is the reason behind all the animal costumes!). Mogwai were fantastic giving us a stellar instrumental performance, and Black Machines were great too (anyone got a flipper?). As someone in our group said, they are like Judith Durnam with Wolfmother! I was disapointed with Of Montreal, not as good as what I'd read about. You Am I topped the bill tonight, less crazy than usual but Tim Rogers in a green suit with a large bow tie (yuk!) gave the crowd what they came for - a jolly good time. A late night and a cosy warm tent before a sleep in and then time for upsie's to check out more bands around lunchtime. Two egg sandwiches later we saw Bridezilla who I find are always a great watch then Pivot who were a cruisy instrumental group, Old Crow Medicine Man had that hill billy kicking feel about them, definately got the crowd warming up! Time for more walkies and good ole hare krisna food - go the snack plate! Then it was time for more bands including The Church who have still got it and the crowd seemed very pumped for this set, The Drones and highlight of the night was Gary Numan, fantastic set, fantastic voice. As a volunteer it was my shift of midnight till 4am to work where, as crowd carer, with a monkey, we wandered around campsites making sure all was okay, and with looking at ping pong tables, pool tables and bars, all was okay in golden plains land.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Simply Wonderful at the Palais Theatre
Band: Simply Red supported by Kate Cebrano
Venue: Palais Theatre - St Kilda
Date: 10th February 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Tonight is like a double header act for the lucky punters who had tickets to a sold out show at the Palais Theatre. Kate Cebrano takes to stage amongst talented musicians and sings many of her own songs plus a few covers. Songs include Bedroom Eyes, Kiss me Passionately and more. Kate always puts on a great show, talking to her audience, wiggles her amazing body and smiling with passion and honesty. The seats are practically full for Kate.
Simply Red are an English band basing their music on pop, rock, jazz and soul. This tour coincides with their greatest hits cd and 2009 will be the last time we’ll see the band. After 25 years Mick says the band will end, basically saying that 25 years is enough.
The crowd tonight is very mixed. Many people have been waiting 20 years to see Simply Red, some received the ticket from their children as Christmas presents. The first part of the set is slower songs such as ‘Holding back the years’, ‘For your Babies’ and ‘Fairground’. As this is the greatest hits tour, we soon heard all the upbeat songs ‘Money too tight to Mention’, ‘Something got me Started’, ‘The Right thing’ and the night ended on ‘If you don’t know me by now’ which was a slow song to end on, I feel it would have been better ending on a upbeat song, but hey – I didn’t hear the audience complain. Plenty of patrons in the aisles dancing away and I overheard many people saying it was a fantastic show. Thanks Mick for coming to Australia and we missed seeing you at the Day on the Green tour (which was cancelled due to the bushfire threat in the Yarra Valley).
Melbourne Live’s thoughts are with the people who have lost beloved ones or animals due to the bushfires. This is a tragedy that has brought many people together at such a devastating time in life. Please donate to the Animal Aid in Coldstream
Venue: Palais Theatre - St Kilda
Date: 10th February 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Tonight is like a double header act for the lucky punters who had tickets to a sold out show at the Palais Theatre. Kate Cebrano takes to stage amongst talented musicians and sings many of her own songs plus a few covers. Songs include Bedroom Eyes, Kiss me Passionately and more. Kate always puts on a great show, talking to her audience, wiggles her amazing body and smiling with passion and honesty. The seats are practically full for Kate.
Simply Red are an English band basing their music on pop, rock, jazz and soul. This tour coincides with their greatest hits cd and 2009 will be the last time we’ll see the band. After 25 years Mick says the band will end, basically saying that 25 years is enough.
The crowd tonight is very mixed. Many people have been waiting 20 years to see Simply Red, some received the ticket from their children as Christmas presents. The first part of the set is slower songs such as ‘Holding back the years’, ‘For your Babies’ and ‘Fairground’. As this is the greatest hits tour, we soon heard all the upbeat songs ‘Money too tight to Mention’, ‘Something got me Started’, ‘The Right thing’ and the night ended on ‘If you don’t know me by now’ which was a slow song to end on, I feel it would have been better ending on a upbeat song, but hey – I didn’t hear the audience complain. Plenty of patrons in the aisles dancing away and I overheard many people saying it was a fantastic show. Thanks Mick for coming to Australia and we missed seeing you at the Day on the Green tour (which was cancelled due to the bushfire threat in the Yarra Valley).
Melbourne Live’s thoughts are with the people who have lost beloved ones or animals due to the bushfires. This is a tragedy that has brought many people together at such a devastating time in life. Please donate to the Animal Aid in Coldstream
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Root! of money is the evil at the Northcote Social Club
Band: Root! with support from Lightning Dead and Austin Floyd
Venue: Northcote Social Club
Date: 6th february 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Live music is vehicle to bring people together and Melbourne’s most unsexy band Root! bring a certain type together, whether it be the boot scooting variety, the poets, the unethical, the bogans and those who want a bloody good laugh.
The Northcote Social Club tonight takes on board Root! including two support acts. First off the base is Lightning Dead, who begin with guitar and drum which builds up with bass and electric guitar. Deep strong vocals and an impressive voice are what first hits you, then that great rock/indie alternative sound. Lyrics are story like and most songs build up their sound before they truly rock out. Their song Out Of Control has a slight twang to it whilst other songs sound almost punk like. Bit country, bit old school and a slight sound of New Order at times.
Austin Floyd are up next, a Melbourne country rock of the grunt variety band, which fits into the pub scene as though they are part of the furniture with a manner like Ian Rilen, that has that jive, boot scooting feel. They are a very fitting support band for tonight’s main act to follow. Murray Floyd is on vocals and rhythm guitar and sports a cowboy hat, pouting lips and an oozing raw gravel voice. To support Murray is Justin Rudge on lead guitar and backing vocals, Chris Pain on double bass and Roman Ceder on drums. The song Haven’t had a Woman since Johnny Cash died includes harmonica and the solid crowd thoroughly bakes in the song and then with the words "wham bam thank you mam, that is the end of the show"! how can we not agree that this band puts on a great rocking performance and the punters certainly know how to have a good time to them.
Curtains that were closed are now open and out come the band of the night, Root! All wearing hats and they head straight into a new song Groove from their new album titled Root is the money of all Evil, a talking style of song which is quickly backed up by their hit single Get Up Yourself with its great harmonies and a rap in the middle of it, this is a great song for the crowd to get into. Another newie titled Famous is more a cabaret and melodic song which was wonderfully sung and had sing-talking throughout which is what DC Root is renowned for. I Hang Out with the Guy’s in Jet (‘s Uncle) brought to the stage a striking presence that the crowd lapped up, all members zooming around the stage with utter delight and comfortableness. Henri, Barnaby, Doug Lee and Steve Root all bring a wealth of passion and zest to stage and complement DC Root’s style. The song Emo took on the darker beats which were taken upside down and around about with some happy undercurrents. This is one hell of a song full of rhyme. Next up was a treat - keyboard start then a poem recited by DC entitled Fuck I’m Dead with lines like “been waiting 25 years for a MCG membership but fuck, I’m dead”, and this erupted laughter from the near sold out crowd. Dark keys envelope the start of the next song which is a melancholy tune called Crown, about the casino, and sung in the tune of Hokey Pokey.
Uncle Vom Vom shows the strong vocals from DC and I still call Australia “HO” has great lyrical content (and DC wears an Arab style of hat). The band are very interactive with the audience and it’s something I feel the punters need. One comes to a Root! show knowing it’s going to be a fun evening with humorous lyrics and a singer who engages with his audience. The crowd tickler with wild guitar riffs I wish I was Tex Perkins has many punters singing and perhaps many agreeing “he eats roots and leaves”. A broken snare plagues the band but not for long before the band launches into Back to Mine then Orange (“don’t drink carrot juice”). Encore arrives but naturally the band comes back. Shazza and Michelle is the next treat with the hilarious bogan tune to make any bogan’s cringe. The night is finished with Pauline Hanson says there are Christian Muslims too and DC finds his way to the bar (then tells us this perhaps wasn’t the best thing as now he has a wet bum)!
Do I think the band is slightly funny? No I think the band is much more than slightly funny and everyone should know this is a country rock lyrical rap band worth exploring.
www.fasterlouder.com.au
Venue: Northcote Social Club
Date: 6th february 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Live music is vehicle to bring people together and Melbourne’s most unsexy band Root! bring a certain type together, whether it be the boot scooting variety, the poets, the unethical, the bogans and those who want a bloody good laugh.
The Northcote Social Club tonight takes on board Root! including two support acts. First off the base is Lightning Dead, who begin with guitar and drum which builds up with bass and electric guitar. Deep strong vocals and an impressive voice are what first hits you, then that great rock/indie alternative sound. Lyrics are story like and most songs build up their sound before they truly rock out. Their song Out Of Control has a slight twang to it whilst other songs sound almost punk like. Bit country, bit old school and a slight sound of New Order at times.
Austin Floyd are up next, a Melbourne country rock of the grunt variety band, which fits into the pub scene as though they are part of the furniture with a manner like Ian Rilen, that has that jive, boot scooting feel. They are a very fitting support band for tonight’s main act to follow. Murray Floyd is on vocals and rhythm guitar and sports a cowboy hat, pouting lips and an oozing raw gravel voice. To support Murray is Justin Rudge on lead guitar and backing vocals, Chris Pain on double bass and Roman Ceder on drums. The song Haven’t had a Woman since Johnny Cash died includes harmonica and the solid crowd thoroughly bakes in the song and then with the words "wham bam thank you mam, that is the end of the show"! how can we not agree that this band puts on a great rocking performance and the punters certainly know how to have a good time to them.
Curtains that were closed are now open and out come the band of the night, Root! All wearing hats and they head straight into a new song Groove from their new album titled Root is the money of all Evil, a talking style of song which is quickly backed up by their hit single Get Up Yourself with its great harmonies and a rap in the middle of it, this is a great song for the crowd to get into. Another newie titled Famous is more a cabaret and melodic song which was wonderfully sung and had sing-talking throughout which is what DC Root is renowned for. I Hang Out with the Guy’s in Jet (‘s Uncle) brought to the stage a striking presence that the crowd lapped up, all members zooming around the stage with utter delight and comfortableness. Henri, Barnaby, Doug Lee and Steve Root all bring a wealth of passion and zest to stage and complement DC Root’s style. The song Emo took on the darker beats which were taken upside down and around about with some happy undercurrents. This is one hell of a song full of rhyme. Next up was a treat - keyboard start then a poem recited by DC entitled Fuck I’m Dead with lines like “been waiting 25 years for a MCG membership but fuck, I’m dead”, and this erupted laughter from the near sold out crowd. Dark keys envelope the start of the next song which is a melancholy tune called Crown, about the casino, and sung in the tune of Hokey Pokey.
Uncle Vom Vom shows the strong vocals from DC and I still call Australia “HO” has great lyrical content (and DC wears an Arab style of hat). The band are very interactive with the audience and it’s something I feel the punters need. One comes to a Root! show knowing it’s going to be a fun evening with humorous lyrics and a singer who engages with his audience. The crowd tickler with wild guitar riffs I wish I was Tex Perkins has many punters singing and perhaps many agreeing “he eats roots and leaves”. A broken snare plagues the band but not for long before the band launches into Back to Mine then Orange (“don’t drink carrot juice”). Encore arrives but naturally the band comes back. Shazza and Michelle is the next treat with the hilarious bogan tune to make any bogan’s cringe. The night is finished with Pauline Hanson says there are Christian Muslims too and DC finds his way to the bar (then tells us this perhaps wasn’t the best thing as now he has a wet bum)!
Do I think the band is slightly funny? No I think the band is much more than slightly funny and everyone should know this is a country rock lyrical rap band worth exploring.
www.fasterlouder.com.au
Cold War Kids
Band: Cold War Kids supported by Bridezilla
Venue: The Palace
Date: 4th february 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Tonight’s gig takes me on a adventure to the Palace Theatre in Melbourne to see one hot American band and another hauntingly hot band from Sydney. The later of the two is the first band of the night, Bridezilla, a young (some are still doing or have just done their HSC) five piece band that has been around since 2005. Fronted by Holly Sidewinder on gorgeous vocals and rhythm guitar, the band includes Pia May on guitar, Millie Hall on saxophone and keys, Daisy Tulley on violins (insane playing, like Warren Ellis), and the odd man out (or lucky) , Josh Bush. Bridezilla take to stage induced with violin and a single drum beat, enter haunting vocals that crawl into every crevice in the venue and add a grunty bass, some saxophone and you have a great start for a great act. Their outfits take on a more sombre feel than what I’ve seen in the past but that doesn’t mean they’re boring, not at all. Take the bassist, Pia, who intrigues me, tonight Pia wears a long dress whilst she cuts the chords, this is a sexy sight to see - include some bright red lipstick and swaying brown hair and there you have one chick that looks innocent and sultry at the same time! The crowd take a more responsive approach around half way into the set (also due to more arrivals). The tambourine finds a way to fit in to the music and when a large instrumental is before us, the crowd goes nuts. Easy to see why they are supporting tonight (a thought I wasn’t so sure about at first).Holiday’s voice is spectacular; she delivers the music with passion and conviction.
A short break and we’re greeted with dimmed lights and the crowd goes nuts, then lights and action, Cold War Kids rock the stage whilst a huge skeleton sets the scene as a back drop. A nearly sold out crowd in attendance for this American band who started in 2004 in historic Fullerton, California and whose music is inspired by Bob Dylan, Jeff Buckley and Velvet Underground.
Seven white lights are the only source of illumination on stage to begin with and it’s rather effective. Nathan Willett (lead vocals, piano and guitar) plays the keys and we’re launched into Mexican Dogs from their latest creation Loyalty to Loyalty and this takes the audience to a crazy level. Jonnie Russell (guitar, vocals, percussion) and Matt Maust (bass) are rather uncoordinated as they leap about the stage falling into each other, but the effect of 4 buzzing lads evoking the presence of the crowd sucks all tiredness out of the room to allow themselves to be lost in the music of Cold War Kids. Every Valley is not a Lake is the next song and Nathan jumps to the opposite side of stage to a different set of keyboards. Dynamic feel on stage with Matt Aveiro (drums) gaining momentum and complexity throughout the set. Nathan takes to centre stage for We used to Vacation and Dreams Old Man Dreams are from the highly talked about debut album, Robbers and Cowards. The band then launch into the highly popular song Something is not Right with Me which takes on a joyous cheer and the punters show the band what their made of by leaping around and moshing till they could mosh no more. Nathan’s vocals are crisp, raw and are combined with some sexy guitar riffs and a dark stage, then the song ends in the dark. But hey presto, flashlights are brought out and are waved around into the crowd as the mysterious song Robbers takes us on a journey. CWC show they don’t need to be hounded by huge light shows; the lights of this performance are perfect, even if one song is sung with flashlights! Maybe they are carbon footprint wary! Coffee Spoons (MySpace transmissions) follows then I’ve seen Enough. Next song needs no introduction but I’ll say it anyway, Hang Me Out To Dry, a huge crowd tickler and around the stage the band members zoom. One really needs to love a song sung around washing! Next takes us to a mellow land for a delicate song called Relief which is powered through and fills the room with exquisite noise and ends in stormy surrounds. The punters deliver rapturous applause and they launch into Cryptomnesia (Wikipedia -meaning memory bias whereby a person falsely recalls generating a thought, an idea, a song, or a joke) then it’s that sad time of the night where the encore takes a hold. Whilst we wait for the band to return, a female punter decides to jump on bar and give the crowd a bit of boogie action! Quickly the band bounce back and propel into Quiet Please to which the audience paid no attention to in the title, and then Nathan plunges with growling vocals into, Hospital Beds. Last song of the night is Saint John which has assorted vocals to begin with and is a great twisted yet structured sing-a-long tune. Fabulous choice to end on
This is CWC third time in Melbourne and I’m sure this won’t be the last.
www.thedwarf.com.au
Venue: The Palace
Date: 4th february 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Tonight’s gig takes me on a adventure to the Palace Theatre in Melbourne to see one hot American band and another hauntingly hot band from Sydney. The later of the two is the first band of the night, Bridezilla, a young (some are still doing or have just done their HSC) five piece band that has been around since 2005. Fronted by Holly Sidewinder on gorgeous vocals and rhythm guitar, the band includes Pia May on guitar, Millie Hall on saxophone and keys, Daisy Tulley on violins (insane playing, like Warren Ellis), and the odd man out (or lucky) , Josh Bush. Bridezilla take to stage induced with violin and a single drum beat, enter haunting vocals that crawl into every crevice in the venue and add a grunty bass, some saxophone and you have a great start for a great act. Their outfits take on a more sombre feel than what I’ve seen in the past but that doesn’t mean they’re boring, not at all. Take the bassist, Pia, who intrigues me, tonight Pia wears a long dress whilst she cuts the chords, this is a sexy sight to see - include some bright red lipstick and swaying brown hair and there you have one chick that looks innocent and sultry at the same time! The crowd take a more responsive approach around half way into the set (also due to more arrivals). The tambourine finds a way to fit in to the music and when a large instrumental is before us, the crowd goes nuts. Easy to see why they are supporting tonight (a thought I wasn’t so sure about at first).Holiday’s voice is spectacular; she delivers the music with passion and conviction.
A short break and we’re greeted with dimmed lights and the crowd goes nuts, then lights and action, Cold War Kids rock the stage whilst a huge skeleton sets the scene as a back drop. A nearly sold out crowd in attendance for this American band who started in 2004 in historic Fullerton, California and whose music is inspired by Bob Dylan, Jeff Buckley and Velvet Underground.
Seven white lights are the only source of illumination on stage to begin with and it’s rather effective. Nathan Willett (lead vocals, piano and guitar) plays the keys and we’re launched into Mexican Dogs from their latest creation Loyalty to Loyalty and this takes the audience to a crazy level. Jonnie Russell (guitar, vocals, percussion) and Matt Maust (bass) are rather uncoordinated as they leap about the stage falling into each other, but the effect of 4 buzzing lads evoking the presence of the crowd sucks all tiredness out of the room to allow themselves to be lost in the music of Cold War Kids. Every Valley is not a Lake is the next song and Nathan jumps to the opposite side of stage to a different set of keyboards. Dynamic feel on stage with Matt Aveiro (drums) gaining momentum and complexity throughout the set. Nathan takes to centre stage for We used to Vacation and Dreams Old Man Dreams are from the highly talked about debut album, Robbers and Cowards. The band then launch into the highly popular song Something is not Right with Me which takes on a joyous cheer and the punters show the band what their made of by leaping around and moshing till they could mosh no more. Nathan’s vocals are crisp, raw and are combined with some sexy guitar riffs and a dark stage, then the song ends in the dark. But hey presto, flashlights are brought out and are waved around into the crowd as the mysterious song Robbers takes us on a journey. CWC show they don’t need to be hounded by huge light shows; the lights of this performance are perfect, even if one song is sung with flashlights! Maybe they are carbon footprint wary! Coffee Spoons (MySpace transmissions) follows then I’ve seen Enough. Next song needs no introduction but I’ll say it anyway, Hang Me Out To Dry, a huge crowd tickler and around the stage the band members zoom. One really needs to love a song sung around washing! Next takes us to a mellow land for a delicate song called Relief which is powered through and fills the room with exquisite noise and ends in stormy surrounds. The punters deliver rapturous applause and they launch into Cryptomnesia (Wikipedia -meaning memory bias whereby a person falsely recalls generating a thought, an idea, a song, or a joke) then it’s that sad time of the night where the encore takes a hold. Whilst we wait for the band to return, a female punter decides to jump on bar and give the crowd a bit of boogie action! Quickly the band bounce back and propel into Quiet Please to which the audience paid no attention to in the title, and then Nathan plunges with growling vocals into, Hospital Beds. Last song of the night is Saint John which has assorted vocals to begin with and is a great twisted yet structured sing-a-long tune. Fabulous choice to end on
This is CWC third time in Melbourne and I’m sure this won’t be the last.
www.thedwarf.com.au
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Two Giants of the music scene, Serj Tankian and Fantomas
Band: Serj Tankian and Fantomas
Venue: Palace Theatre
Date: 25th January 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
I had balcony views in anticipation for some great music. I love the Fantomas 'Directers Cut' cd , so when I heard Fantomas were going to play this cd live, I was there with bells on. Mike Patton (musical genius) sported a cricket outfit for tonights show which did include leg pads! Indeed Mike got away with it, as did guitarist Buzz Osborne (The Melvins) and bassist Trevor Dunn (Mr Bungle). Drummer Dave Lombardo (Slayer) was a treat tonight and he worked that kit and was ripping it to shreds.
Mike's haunting vocals fill the room tonight on many a song, a highlight being Rosemary's Baby, then Mike fills the room with noise and various tricks and treats from his keys and mixer. Buzz powers through the set and takes Trevor with him. Other songs include The Godfather and The Omen and all punters were taken on a mythological journey through the divide that is Fantomas.
For your information - Fantomas comes from a fictional arch villian and master criminal book by french Marcel Allian and Pierre Souvestre. I would say many punters were here just to see Fantomas and the crowd ached for more tunes. But alas, Mike and co weren't coming back, it was time for Serj Tankian (singer System of a Down).
Each time I think of Serj I imagine him to be part of a circus and I can hear him saying 'roll up, roll up' to the crowds. He just has that appeal about him. The band arrives, in top hats and straight into The Unthinking Majority which sent the crowd into a frenzy. The rest of the band were in red suits but the top hats came off after only a short time. We all sang Happy Birthday to Mike Patton at one point and engulfed more songs from Serj. Empty Walls was a big hit. The show took us on a rock and roll adventure hightlighted with Serj's front man adventure and circus hilarity. Only downer was ending on a cover of David Bowie's Ground Control to Major Tom - Sure it sounded great, but I wasn't impressed with it being the last song. Serj's cd called Elect the Dead is awesome, go buy it!
Venue: Palace Theatre
Date: 25th January 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
I had balcony views in anticipation for some great music. I love the Fantomas 'Directers Cut' cd , so when I heard Fantomas were going to play this cd live, I was there with bells on. Mike Patton (musical genius) sported a cricket outfit for tonights show which did include leg pads! Indeed Mike got away with it, as did guitarist Buzz Osborne (The Melvins) and bassist Trevor Dunn (Mr Bungle). Drummer Dave Lombardo (Slayer) was a treat tonight and he worked that kit and was ripping it to shreds.
Mike's haunting vocals fill the room tonight on many a song, a highlight being Rosemary's Baby, then Mike fills the room with noise and various tricks and treats from his keys and mixer. Buzz powers through the set and takes Trevor with him. Other songs include The Godfather and The Omen and all punters were taken on a mythological journey through the divide that is Fantomas.
For your information - Fantomas comes from a fictional arch villian and master criminal book by french Marcel Allian and Pierre Souvestre. I would say many punters were here just to see Fantomas and the crowd ached for more tunes. But alas, Mike and co weren't coming back, it was time for Serj Tankian (singer System of a Down).
Each time I think of Serj I imagine him to be part of a circus and I can hear him saying 'roll up, roll up' to the crowds. He just has that appeal about him. The band arrives, in top hats and straight into The Unthinking Majority which sent the crowd into a frenzy. The rest of the band were in red suits but the top hats came off after only a short time. We all sang Happy Birthday to Mike Patton at one point and engulfed more songs from Serj. Empty Walls was a big hit. The show took us on a rock and roll adventure hightlighted with Serj's front man adventure and circus hilarity. Only downer was ending on a cover of David Bowie's Ground Control to Major Tom - Sure it sounded great, but I wasn't impressed with it being the last song. Serj's cd called Elect the Dead is awesome, go buy it!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Green Grass, Sunshine, Wine and Leonard Cohen
Band: Leonard Cohen
Venue: A day on the Green at Rochford Winery
Date: 24th January 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
The Prince of precision, Leonard Cohen, graced the Rochford winery in the Yarra Valley for A Day on the Green, a 74 year young man and a nearly sold out crowd. The sunshine was just enough and the punters were in their element. On stage Leonard brought a full band, all wearing black suits, consisting of Dean on sax who is the master of breath we’re told, Bob on electric guitar, Raphael on drums, Javier Mas as the shepard or strings, Neil on keyboards and piano accordion, Russell on bass guitar and double bass, singer and co writer Sharon Robinson (who co wrote Everybody Knows) and Hattie and Charley, who are sisters, and they are the other two backing singers.
This is Leonard’s first tour of Australia in 24 years, so naturally the crowd are ready to hear his music. The crowd is a mixed lot, the older crowd is a-plenty and many young people flood through the gates. You may wonder if Leonard can still hold the crowd and he shows us that he defiantly can. With his beautiful Canadian accent he talks to the crowd and his singing voice takes us on a magical experience.
After almost every song the crowd erupts from their seats with applause, some punters are in tears over the music. Leonard seems a humble man who feels blessed at the crowd’s reaction to his music.
Sharon sings Boogie st and her voice is glorious, she could easily have her own sold out show throughout Australia. Such a fabulous voice that I’m jealous of!
Leonard sings songs which include Tower of Song, Everybody Knows, Suzanne (a song about a former wife of a friend and not his ex wife), Gypsy Wife, Hallelujah and So long Marianne. Leonard talks the song A Thousand Kisses which again brings people around me in tears and I can hear people talking the lyrics with Leonard. After the first set Leonard runs of stage whilst doing some small high kicks!
Whilst watching the show I see flocks of ducks fly overhead and cockatoos screeching above the crowd - are they too enjoying the beautiful music that fills the sky tonight?
Leonard tells us the complexities of life are ‘do da dum dum’ and this we take away with us! Leonard has suffered from depression throughout his life and his music often reflects this, but the songs often reflect war, politics, cultural and sexual themes. His live set wasn’t as depressing as I thought it cAAould be, quite the opposite actually.
Leonard bows to his band members when introducing them and he looks at them all with passion when they performing their solo’s. Whilst watching him I cannot help but feel blessed at seeing such a humble and passionate man.
I enjoyed drinking some wine and listening to the magical voice of Leonard and I wondered if he was like a fine wine that gets better with age.
Venue: A day on the Green at Rochford Winery
Date: 24th January 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
The Prince of precision, Leonard Cohen, graced the Rochford winery in the Yarra Valley for A Day on the Green, a 74 year young man and a nearly sold out crowd. The sunshine was just enough and the punters were in their element. On stage Leonard brought a full band, all wearing black suits, consisting of Dean on sax who is the master of breath we’re told, Bob on electric guitar, Raphael on drums, Javier Mas as the shepard or strings, Neil on keyboards and piano accordion, Russell on bass guitar and double bass, singer and co writer Sharon Robinson (who co wrote Everybody Knows) and Hattie and Charley, who are sisters, and they are the other two backing singers.
This is Leonard’s first tour of Australia in 24 years, so naturally the crowd are ready to hear his music. The crowd is a mixed lot, the older crowd is a-plenty and many young people flood through the gates. You may wonder if Leonard can still hold the crowd and he shows us that he defiantly can. With his beautiful Canadian accent he talks to the crowd and his singing voice takes us on a magical experience.
After almost every song the crowd erupts from their seats with applause, some punters are in tears over the music. Leonard seems a humble man who feels blessed at the crowd’s reaction to his music.
Sharon sings Boogie st and her voice is glorious, she could easily have her own sold out show throughout Australia. Such a fabulous voice that I’m jealous of!
Leonard sings songs which include Tower of Song, Everybody Knows, Suzanne (a song about a former wife of a friend and not his ex wife), Gypsy Wife, Hallelujah and So long Marianne. Leonard talks the song A Thousand Kisses which again brings people around me in tears and I can hear people talking the lyrics with Leonard. After the first set Leonard runs of stage whilst doing some small high kicks!
Whilst watching the show I see flocks of ducks fly overhead and cockatoos screeching above the crowd - are they too enjoying the beautiful music that fills the sky tonight?
Leonard tells us the complexities of life are ‘do da dum dum’ and this we take away with us! Leonard has suffered from depression throughout his life and his music often reflects this, but the songs often reflect war, politics, cultural and sexual themes. His live set wasn’t as depressing as I thought it cAAould be, quite the opposite actually.
Leonard bows to his band members when introducing them and he looks at them all with passion when they performing their solo’s. Whilst watching him I cannot help but feel blessed at seeing such a humble and passionate man.
I enjoyed drinking some wine and listening to the magical voice of Leonard and I wondered if he was like a fine wine that gets better with age.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Cinematic Orchestra at the Palais Theatre
Band: The Cinematic Orchestra
Venue: Palais Theatre
Date: 20th January 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Tonight I witnessed the sound that is Cinematic Orchestra. The crowd tonight were fully pumped to witness this band, and a nearly sold out Palais theatre tells me this is a band worth seeing.
A combination of jazz and electronic fusion mixed with lush vocals of the spine tingling variety. The band formed in 1999 and it was created by Jason Swinscoe. On vocals tonight we are graced with the presence of the magnificent voice of Heidi Vogel and Reverend Grey. Heidi is truly show stopping – strong vocals and a haunting powerful voice - I could see why she received the most claps from the audience. I could not help but watch her and wish I could sing that way!
Hailing from the UK the band consists of Luke Flowers on drums, Tom Chant on saxophone, Nick Ramm on piano, Stuart McCallum on guitar and Phil France on double bass. Jason Swinscoe plays the turntable like the professional he is, using the singers vocals by recording the live music, then playing it back as backing vocals, one had to look around and see where the backing singers had come from, the sound was awesome. Jason spins the turntable whilst improvising throughout the performance. He also received a strong reaction from the crowd.
Jason talks to the audience a fair bit throughout the show and manages a laugh when his hard drive fails him. It thankfully doesn’t take too long for the show to go on and the disruption is soon forgotten.
I overheard a few people saying it was about time this band toured and I have no doubt they were not disappointed tonight. I had never heard of this band so seeing them was a great experience. Check them out, you won’t regret it.
Venue: Palais Theatre
Date: 20th January 2009
Reviewed By: Espylyn
Tonight I witnessed the sound that is Cinematic Orchestra. The crowd tonight were fully pumped to witness this band, and a nearly sold out Palais theatre tells me this is a band worth seeing.
A combination of jazz and electronic fusion mixed with lush vocals of the spine tingling variety. The band formed in 1999 and it was created by Jason Swinscoe. On vocals tonight we are graced with the presence of the magnificent voice of Heidi Vogel and Reverend Grey. Heidi is truly show stopping – strong vocals and a haunting powerful voice - I could see why she received the most claps from the audience. I could not help but watch her and wish I could sing that way!
Hailing from the UK the band consists of Luke Flowers on drums, Tom Chant on saxophone, Nick Ramm on piano, Stuart McCallum on guitar and Phil France on double bass. Jason Swinscoe plays the turntable like the professional he is, using the singers vocals by recording the live music, then playing it back as backing vocals, one had to look around and see where the backing singers had come from, the sound was awesome. Jason spins the turntable whilst improvising throughout the performance. He also received a strong reaction from the crowd.
Jason talks to the audience a fair bit throughout the show and manages a laugh when his hard drive fails him. It thankfully doesn’t take too long for the show to go on and the disruption is soon forgotten.
I overheard a few people saying it was about time this band toured and I have no doubt they were not disappointed tonight. I had never heard of this band so seeing them was a great experience. Check them out, you won’t regret it.
Monday, January 19, 2009
The Hell Hounds take on the Greyhound - best gig ever!!!
Band: Hell Hounds
Venue: Greyhound Hotel
Date: 17th January 2009
Reviewed By: Dave Espy
The Greyhound was packed to the rafters for tonights Hell Hounds gig, (I've never seen it so full). Most of the familiar crowd that we usually see down there on Sundays were there, as well as most of Phil Para's crowd (which initally takes place at the espy on sat nights from 6pm). The bar staff could not cope, it was four deep at the bar. F**king hell it took ages to get a drink ( but l still managed to get pissed!!) This was Venom"s the drummers third gig in 24 hours, Electric Mary last night at the espy, Phil Para tonight and now the Hell Hounds, he looked a bit tired, but played to his usual high standard. By the time the 2nd set started, everyone was up dancing, even Ivan Millats brother ??!!, great auusie crowd. Steve Pricker joined the band in the 2nd set, he was f**king awesome. In conclusion it was a fantastic night had by all, great band and all the misfits had fun :-)
BTW my ears are still ringing!!!
Venue: Greyhound Hotel
Date: 17th January 2009
Reviewed By: Dave Espy
The Greyhound was packed to the rafters for tonights Hell Hounds gig, (I've never seen it so full). Most of the familiar crowd that we usually see down there on Sundays were there, as well as most of Phil Para's crowd (which initally takes place at the espy on sat nights from 6pm). The bar staff could not cope, it was four deep at the bar. F**king hell it took ages to get a drink ( but l still managed to get pissed!!) This was Venom"s the drummers third gig in 24 hours, Electric Mary last night at the espy, Phil Para tonight and now the Hell Hounds, he looked a bit tired, but played to his usual high standard. By the time the 2nd set started, everyone was up dancing, even Ivan Millats brother ??!!, great auusie crowd. Steve Pricker joined the band in the 2nd set, he was f**king awesome. In conclusion it was a fantastic night had by all, great band and all the misfits had fun :-)
BTW my ears are still ringing!!!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Comedian and Singer Newton Faulkner
Band: Newton Faulkner and Old Man River
Venue: Forum Theatre
Date: 6th september 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Photos By : Lyn Harder
A mild spring night out in the Melbourne city and I sneezed my way to the forum theatre to witness Sam Newton Battenberg Faulkner aka Newton Faulkner play to a sold out crowd. Born in Surrey, England, the 23 year old is well known for his guitar techniques which see him not only use the guitar strings, but playfully tap the guitars body which creates some developed sounds that he has mastered and which he delightfully plays to the enchanted crowd.
On entering the forum theatre I wasn’t pleased with the new queuing regime that they have adopted, waiting in queue outside to then wait in another queue inside! What the! So here you have people queuing up the stairs to the top bar to then come down again once they got up there to be ushered into the theatre! Ridiculous!
Venue: Forum Theatre
Date: 6th september 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Photos By : Lyn Harder
A mild spring night out in the Melbourne city and I sneezed my way to the forum theatre to witness Sam Newton Battenberg Faulkner aka Newton Faulkner play to a sold out crowd. Born in Surrey, England, the 23 year old is well known for his guitar techniques which see him not only use the guitar strings, but playfully tap the guitars body which creates some developed sounds that he has mastered and which he delightfully plays to the enchanted crowd.
On entering the forum theatre I wasn’t pleased with the new queuing regime that they have adopted, waiting in queue outside to then wait in another queue inside! What the! So here you have people queuing up the stairs to the top bar to then come down again once they got up there to be ushered into the theatre! Ridiculous!
Lights on and Rosie Henshaw enters the stage and sits down to play what looks like a sittah (forgive me if I’m wrong), and the eastern music fills the room as she carefully plucks this beautiful instrument. Old Man River aka Ohad Rein joins her and they sing Sunshine. The acoustic guitar and sittah do justice to Sunshine and their voices are melodic as well as soft and tonight they sing with passion and freedom. We’re hearing new tunes from Old Man River during the set, and Ohad is rather entertaining as he tries to get reactions from the crowd between songs. Old Man River’s music is for a laid back night out for those who want to listen to some decent, quirky tunes over a few brews.
Enter Newton Faulkner who puts on a great show tonight, he is quite the comedian up on stage as well as a talented muscian. To The Light starts the night full of melodic pop and a beat played by tapping the guitars body, something he is well known for and he takes us through many guitar twists and turns throughout the night.
He gives us plenty to laugh about as he tells stories with songs, She's got the time is about travelling with his brother and acting weird and UFO mentioned anal probes! Dream Catch Me is his biggest hit and when played the crowd went mad, singing and swaying with arms in the air, you can tell this is a much loved song. Newton covers Dead or Alive You Spin me right round and the Massive Attack hit Teardrop which is on his album.
The stage tonight isn't very glossy, a disco ball hangs centre of stage and the lights on the backdrop change every now and then, but Newton is such the act he doesnt require any more stage decoration. He is joined part of the way through the set by drummer and bassist who ad some beats and grunt to the music tonight.
Other songs played are Straight Towards the Sun and People Should Smile More which take us all on different journey's with each song, Newton's voice is passionate and strong showing us he has a great voice for the live scene. Newton's dreadlocks are rather long, it makes me wonder if they are real or whether he's grown them since birth! Considering he is 23 years of age! For Gods Sake and Take It are new songs tonight, and they are beautiful heartfelt songs which hopefully will be on his next album. He doesn't worry about an encore tonight, we just pretend he left stage and came back, and he sings Lullaby which is a bit like that, and the night ends on a Queen cover of Bohemian Rhapsody which brings out all the drunken boys and girls to sing along to.
Newton is a show that you can bring anyone along to and each person would get something out of the show, whether it be a hangover or sore belly from laughter!
He gives us plenty to laugh about as he tells stories with songs, She's got the time is about travelling with his brother and acting weird and UFO mentioned anal probes! Dream Catch Me is his biggest hit and when played the crowd went mad, singing and swaying with arms in the air, you can tell this is a much loved song. Newton covers Dead or Alive You Spin me right round and the Massive Attack hit Teardrop which is on his album.
The stage tonight isn't very glossy, a disco ball hangs centre of stage and the lights on the backdrop change every now and then, but Newton is such the act he doesnt require any more stage decoration. He is joined part of the way through the set by drummer and bassist who ad some beats and grunt to the music tonight.
Other songs played are Straight Towards the Sun and People Should Smile More which take us all on different journey's with each song, Newton's voice is passionate and strong showing us he has a great voice for the live scene. Newton's dreadlocks are rather long, it makes me wonder if they are real or whether he's grown them since birth! Considering he is 23 years of age! For Gods Sake and Take It are new songs tonight, and they are beautiful heartfelt songs which hopefully will be on his next album. He doesn't worry about an encore tonight, we just pretend he left stage and came back, and he sings Lullaby which is a bit like that, and the night ends on a Queen cover of Bohemian Rhapsody which brings out all the drunken boys and girls to sing along to.
Newton is a show that you can bring anyone along to and each person would get something out of the show, whether it be a hangover or sore belly from laughter!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Mr Murray at the beautiful forum theatre
Band: Pete Murray with support from Gin Wagmore and The Audrey's Trio
Venue: Forum theatre
Date: 15th August 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn
Another chilly night out in Melbourne and already the beautiful Forum Theatre is filled and punters are taking advantage of an early open bar. Gin Wagmore, her name as interesting as her sound is on first. Her sound is squeakier, nasaly version of welsh singer Duffy, but I like her style and sound very much. One cannot stop watching her. Her arms waving around madly or perhaps a mosie was bothering her!An eclectic mix of punters and a near full crowd for The Audrey's Trio. Singer Taasha Coates beautiful melodic voice singes songs which include 'Oh Honey', 'Found a Place', and an INXS cover 'Don't Change a Thing'. Crowd seems lazy with their applause for this band.A full house awaits Mr Murray and Co. On stage I observe the four large bookshelves complete with books and suitcases (same picture as front cover on new album) and the crashing sounds of bottles from the nearby bar being emptied into a rubbish bin interrupts my thoughts. At last the 5 mebmbers including Australia's boy next door enter and the punters scream and cheer. Ben McCarthy on keyboard, Andy Sylvio on drums, bassist Jonathon Zion and Brett on lead guitar. Straight into 'Chance to say Goodbye' with nice keyboard arrangement and electric guitar riffs. Pete in cowboy shirt sets the girls hearts thumping. old wood lamps adorne the stage and give it a homely feel and four rectangle screens above the stage emit light. The crowd becoming even more pumped with standing and sitting room full. Lights flash for and thebookcase becomes a light show and pink lights flood the stage 'Ten FT Tall'. A cymbol start followed by drum beats flavoured with guitar and keyboards gets the crowd pumping. Pete's electric guitar sounding fantastic with circular riffs for ' Fall Your Way', keys muching the sound and ending with smooth drum beats. 'Class A' includes all out instrumental and a drum solo that the crowd love and Andy recieves thunderous applause. Pete brings out shakers and the crowd clap, pleased with the singer/crowd connection and the lead guitarist ends the song. The latest single "Pick Me Up' tickles the punters and this song Pete says is one of his most upbeat so far. The bookcase comes alight displaying blue cubes of light and I'm sure some punters are now blind! This song is blended with guitar and drum. Pete's honey soaked voice has a soothing melody and is soul baring. Music from the new album is bright and positive, displaying energy and honest emotions.The lead guitarist likes to steal the limelight with rock moves and sound. 'Better Days', a song for inspiration, flowing keyboards and the grunting bass delivers the song with Pete's semi acoustic. Pete tells us he's been sick the last few days but I couldn't tell, although he is very still on stage. Next journey is the song which is about touring and leaving his family at home 'The Game' 'HELLO MISS YOU' is written in lights. This tour is called 'Eureka Tour' which is the latest titled album from Pete. Produced in Pete's studio in rural nothern NSW and recorded over summer. Pete wanted to produce this album himself so he wouldn't have to fall back on anyone else. The album reflects this freedom. Now Ben taks to a comfy lounge seat and pulls a book from the bookcase and reads a book called 'Spotlight on Love' to the crowd who hangs on his every word, once he has read a few bits he gives to a punter. Songs to follow are 'Opportunity' then 'Saving Grace' and is started with harmonica and followed by keyboard and semi acoustic. A soft song with lovely harmonies. Rest of band enter again for 'Lost Soul' which is a country rock tune. Big whoops for "Bail Me Out' and 'Sugar' followed by 'Feeler'. Ben the keyboard wiz has great stage presence and clearly loves being here tonight. The lead struts his rock side, hence the lights displaying the word ROCK during one of his solo's. Funeral music keyboard start for 'Please'. Short encore and back for some new tunes, some guitar changes for Mr Murray.The statues in the Forum Theatre seem to be keeping an eye on the show, I'm sure they are enjoying the show as much as the full house tonight. Pete gets back to the semi acoustic for the end song with "So beautiful' whilst the entire room sings along to every word. Melody of keys, back beats, guitar - I can see why this is a crowd favorite. Guitars off, held above head and Pete says goodbye.
Venue: Forum theatre
Date: 15th August 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn
Another chilly night out in Melbourne and already the beautiful Forum Theatre is filled and punters are taking advantage of an early open bar. Gin Wagmore, her name as interesting as her sound is on first. Her sound is squeakier, nasaly version of welsh singer Duffy, but I like her style and sound very much. One cannot stop watching her. Her arms waving around madly or perhaps a mosie was bothering her!An eclectic mix of punters and a near full crowd for The Audrey's Trio. Singer Taasha Coates beautiful melodic voice singes songs which include 'Oh Honey', 'Found a Place', and an INXS cover 'Don't Change a Thing'. Crowd seems lazy with their applause for this band.A full house awaits Mr Murray and Co. On stage I observe the four large bookshelves complete with books and suitcases (same picture as front cover on new album) and the crashing sounds of bottles from the nearby bar being emptied into a rubbish bin interrupts my thoughts. At last the 5 mebmbers including Australia's boy next door enter and the punters scream and cheer. Ben McCarthy on keyboard, Andy Sylvio on drums, bassist Jonathon Zion and Brett on lead guitar. Straight into 'Chance to say Goodbye' with nice keyboard arrangement and electric guitar riffs. Pete in cowboy shirt sets the girls hearts thumping. old wood lamps adorne the stage and give it a homely feel and four rectangle screens above the stage emit light. The crowd becoming even more pumped with standing and sitting room full. Lights flash for and thebookcase becomes a light show and pink lights flood the stage 'Ten FT Tall'. A cymbol start followed by drum beats flavoured with guitar and keyboards gets the crowd pumping. Pete's electric guitar sounding fantastic with circular riffs for ' Fall Your Way', keys muching the sound and ending with smooth drum beats. 'Class A' includes all out instrumental and a drum solo that the crowd love and Andy recieves thunderous applause. Pete brings out shakers and the crowd clap, pleased with the singer/crowd connection and the lead guitarist ends the song. The latest single "Pick Me Up' tickles the punters and this song Pete says is one of his most upbeat so far. The bookcase comes alight displaying blue cubes of light and I'm sure some punters are now blind! This song is blended with guitar and drum. Pete's honey soaked voice has a soothing melody and is soul baring. Music from the new album is bright and positive, displaying energy and honest emotions.The lead guitarist likes to steal the limelight with rock moves and sound. 'Better Days', a song for inspiration, flowing keyboards and the grunting bass delivers the song with Pete's semi acoustic. Pete tells us he's been sick the last few days but I couldn't tell, although he is very still on stage. Next journey is the song which is about touring and leaving his family at home 'The Game' 'HELLO MISS YOU' is written in lights. This tour is called 'Eureka Tour' which is the latest titled album from Pete. Produced in Pete's studio in rural nothern NSW and recorded over summer. Pete wanted to produce this album himself so he wouldn't have to fall back on anyone else. The album reflects this freedom. Now Ben taks to a comfy lounge seat and pulls a book from the bookcase and reads a book called 'Spotlight on Love' to the crowd who hangs on his every word, once he has read a few bits he gives to a punter. Songs to follow are 'Opportunity' then 'Saving Grace' and is started with harmonica and followed by keyboard and semi acoustic. A soft song with lovely harmonies. Rest of band enter again for 'Lost Soul' which is a country rock tune. Big whoops for "Bail Me Out' and 'Sugar' followed by 'Feeler'. Ben the keyboard wiz has great stage presence and clearly loves being here tonight. The lead struts his rock side, hence the lights displaying the word ROCK during one of his solo's. Funeral music keyboard start for 'Please'. Short encore and back for some new tunes, some guitar changes for Mr Murray.The statues in the Forum Theatre seem to be keeping an eye on the show, I'm sure they are enjoying the show as much as the full house tonight. Pete gets back to the semi acoustic for the end song with "So beautiful' whilst the entire room sings along to every word. Melody of keys, back beats, guitar - I can see why this is a crowd favorite. Guitars off, held above head and Pete says goodbye.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Soul Glo
Band: Soul Glo
Venue: Blue Diamond
Date: 8th august 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Blue Diamond is such a well suited venue for Soul Glo, it’s as though the stage is made for this band. With many talented members, they need all the space they can get! Adorning the stage is Shirley in her stunning outfits and sexy heels surrounded by 8 males in black suits and pink ties. The way the boys are dressed it certainly allows Shirley to stand out as the front for the band.
Tonight we are treated to 3 sets, kicking off nice and early in the first set with an instrumental then songs include ‘kiss my neck’, ‘crazy’ which is sung by their bassist and is a great cover of this song and lastly in the first set ‘carwash’. The crowd reaps the bands energy and watches the band like someone looking for a muse.
Blue diamond is full of fashionable ladies and gents’ kicking their heels off to the music, and the dance floor is chockoblock with groovsters. Stunning dresses and suits set the scene with their cocktails, only things missing were umbrellas in the drinks!
Second and third set we hear ‘rehab’, ‘ain’t no other man’, split milk’, ‘Valerie’ which had the dance floor packed, and ‘more mess on my thing’. Bands that are covered include Metro Station, Jaci Velasquez, Big Daddy Kane and Dizzee Rascal.
Soul Glo give an amazing performance to the ambience of the night, the horn section giving divine treats of sound, the drummer providing back beats, keyboards twinkling in the night, percussion delivering the grunt and of course the guitars melting with the music. Shirley gives one hell of a performance with her soulful voice bringing the music together and including dance moves and womanly banter as the voice, front of the band.
The music of soul glo is funk and soul and one leaves a Soul Glo gig looking forward to the next journey with the band and their music.
Check out their myspace for future shows.
Venue: Blue Diamond
Date: 8th august 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Blue Diamond is such a well suited venue for Soul Glo, it’s as though the stage is made for this band. With many talented members, they need all the space they can get! Adorning the stage is Shirley in her stunning outfits and sexy heels surrounded by 8 males in black suits and pink ties. The way the boys are dressed it certainly allows Shirley to stand out as the front for the band.
Tonight we are treated to 3 sets, kicking off nice and early in the first set with an instrumental then songs include ‘kiss my neck’, ‘crazy’ which is sung by their bassist and is a great cover of this song and lastly in the first set ‘carwash’. The crowd reaps the bands energy and watches the band like someone looking for a muse.
Blue diamond is full of fashionable ladies and gents’ kicking their heels off to the music, and the dance floor is chockoblock with groovsters. Stunning dresses and suits set the scene with their cocktails, only things missing were umbrellas in the drinks!
Second and third set we hear ‘rehab’, ‘ain’t no other man’, split milk’, ‘Valerie’ which had the dance floor packed, and ‘more mess on my thing’. Bands that are covered include Metro Station, Jaci Velasquez, Big Daddy Kane and Dizzee Rascal.
Soul Glo give an amazing performance to the ambience of the night, the horn section giving divine treats of sound, the drummer providing back beats, keyboards twinkling in the night, percussion delivering the grunt and of course the guitars melting with the music. Shirley gives one hell of a performance with her soulful voice bringing the music together and including dance moves and womanly banter as the voice, front of the band.
The music of soul glo is funk and soul and one leaves a Soul Glo gig looking forward to the next journey with the band and their music.
Check out their myspace for future shows.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Dirty York at the Espy
Photography By;Mark Geisel
Dirty York are a 6 piece Melbourne band and when they enter the stage, I can’t help but look – tall blokes and beards and I must not forget the dreadlocked lass on keys! Great bluesy grooves and rock moves and you are taken away to a space somewhere in time. Call it a bit of ‘Black Crowes’ sound, call it what you want, but this band takes you on a journey you won’t forget. With Clare Whitcombe on the Hammond organ, Benny James and Todd Bennett on guitarist (mmm….slide guitar), Luka Szpakolski on bass and singer Shaun Brown’s with his animated tamborine we are given such songs tonight as ‘take me home?’ a rock country song and ‘all my friends look like Jesus’ – yes laugh at this title.
Then they get pretty up we’re told which means time for softer song ‘crazy little thing you’re going through’. I can’t help but smile at the music with zesty beats and a profound chemistry throughout the band. The dance floor had people dancing and really enjoying the vibe of the band that is Dirty York. My only advice is to have your name on the drum kit or somewhere! As their myspace states, they boldly remind us what good rock and roll is all about
Then they get pretty up we’re told which means time for softer song ‘crazy little thing you’re going through’. I can’t help but smile at the music with zesty beats and a profound chemistry throughout the band. The dance floor had people dancing and really enjoying the vibe of the band that is Dirty York. My only advice is to have your name on the drum kit or somewhere! As their myspace states, they boldly remind us what good rock and roll is all about
The High Drifters at the Espy
Band: The High Drifters
Venue: the Esplanade Hotel
Date: 24th July 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
The high drifters are a blues indie alternative rock, two-piece Melbourne duo who really do rock!
Ringo on guitar and Matt on drums and vocals. They entered the stage with confidence which remained throughout the set. Songs of the night were ‘somewhat thankful’, ‘stay’ -which is the first song they ever wrote, ‘upside down blues’ a guitar change for ‘blue room blues’ which is a real rocking bluesy instrumental.
They are a band who are solid, loud and work well together and judging from how well they play, they’ve been around a while but if not, they are doing extremely well.
Great vocals from Matt, anyone who can sing and drum at the same time gets my attention. Ringo is midly animated on stage including some nice slide guitar.
Set ended with ‘homebody?’ (I’m not sure on exact title), this song has a heavy spin on it – and I’m sure I heard the imperial death march during the song.
Name on drumkit! Yay! Always like bands who put names on a drum kit, especially when you’re at the espy on a Thursday night, watching a heap of bands, and can’t find the gig list around and sometimes one does not know which band of the line up are currently on stage! A top band, worthy of a second look
Their Ep is available for $5 on their myspace site.
Venue: the Esplanade Hotel
Date: 24th July 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
The high drifters are a blues indie alternative rock, two-piece Melbourne duo who really do rock!
Ringo on guitar and Matt on drums and vocals. They entered the stage with confidence which remained throughout the set. Songs of the night were ‘somewhat thankful’, ‘stay’ -which is the first song they ever wrote, ‘upside down blues’ a guitar change for ‘blue room blues’ which is a real rocking bluesy instrumental.
They are a band who are solid, loud and work well together and judging from how well they play, they’ve been around a while but if not, they are doing extremely well.
Great vocals from Matt, anyone who can sing and drum at the same time gets my attention. Ringo is midly animated on stage including some nice slide guitar.
Set ended with ‘homebody?’ (I’m not sure on exact title), this song has a heavy spin on it – and I’m sure I heard the imperial death march during the song.
Name on drumkit! Yay! Always like bands who put names on a drum kit, especially when you’re at the espy on a Thursday night, watching a heap of bands, and can’t find the gig list around and sometimes one does not know which band of the line up are currently on stage! A top band, worthy of a second look
Their Ep is available for $5 on their myspace site.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
shihad at hi fi bar and ballroom
Band: Shihad
Venue: Hi Fi Bar and Ballroom
Date: 12th June 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Venue: Hi Fi Bar and Ballroom
Date: 12th June 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Photography By : Mark Geisel
Shihad
rocked!
Friday, June 13, 2008
John "JT" Tomaino at Veludo Bar
Photos By: Mark Geisel
Live review and info about his new EP.
A Tuesday night in st Kilda had me venture out to the Veludo Bar to see a solo performance from JOHN “JT " TOMAINO. Having read great reviews about JT (as I’ll call him too) I thought I’d check it out for myself. JT recorded the EP with care and love in Scott Matthews’s boutique personal studio in San Francisco using analogue gear which brought about a non glitzy appeal to the EP. JT is very passionate earthy person, who could talk about his music forever, nothing wrong with that though! Many punters turned out tonight to sit and enjoy the solo show. I must say I enjoyed the gig and when I listened to the EP I had the feeling that seeing JT with band would be excellent. The EP treats us to JT’s melodic voice and balances it with keyboards, violin, percussion and back up singers, a very radio friendly EP with great potential. His voice live reminded me of Cat Stevens, singing with passion and showing us just how organic his music is. The type of sound could be said to be classic folk/pop.
The night started with the tune ‘Force of Habit’ which is a new song then followed with ‘blue tune’ from the new EP. After these songs finished JT realised some mixing was sought (yep, guitar was a little loud!). This definitely helped the rest of the set. More songs in the set were ‘Watching the Detectives’ an Elvis Costello cover which sounded very much like Costello. A cover of the Leonard Cohen classic ‘hallelujah’ was beautifully covered. A song called ‘scarecrow’ which is also off the new EP was a heart felt song about betrayal. The last few songs off the new EP were ‘how far is heaven’ (on the Ep this song has guitar loops that really perfect the song) and ‘as good a times as any’ which was a faster track to end on.
The EP is available on itunes and will be distributed across many countries very soon.
A Tuesday night in st Kilda had me venture out to the Veludo Bar to see a solo performance from JOHN “JT " TOMAINO. Having read great reviews about JT (as I’ll call him too) I thought I’d check it out for myself. JT recorded the EP with care and love in Scott Matthews’s boutique personal studio in San Francisco using analogue gear which brought about a non glitzy appeal to the EP. JT is very passionate earthy person, who could talk about his music forever, nothing wrong with that though! Many punters turned out tonight to sit and enjoy the solo show. I must say I enjoyed the gig and when I listened to the EP I had the feeling that seeing JT with band would be excellent. The EP treats us to JT’s melodic voice and balances it with keyboards, violin, percussion and back up singers, a very radio friendly EP with great potential. His voice live reminded me of Cat Stevens, singing with passion and showing us just how organic his music is. The type of sound could be said to be classic folk/pop.
The night started with the tune ‘Force of Habit’ which is a new song then followed with ‘blue tune’ from the new EP. After these songs finished JT realised some mixing was sought (yep, guitar was a little loud!). This definitely helped the rest of the set. More songs in the set were ‘Watching the Detectives’ an Elvis Costello cover which sounded very much like Costello. A cover of the Leonard Cohen classic ‘hallelujah’ was beautifully covered. A song called ‘scarecrow’ which is also off the new EP was a heart felt song about betrayal. The last few songs off the new EP were ‘how far is heaven’ (on the Ep this song has guitar loops that really perfect the song) and ‘as good a times as any’ which was a faster track to end on.
The EP is available on itunes and will be distributed across many countries very soon.
keep an eye on his myspace for when he is out and about next!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Soul Glo getting funky at Veludo Bar
Photos By:Lyn Harder
Soul glo is a crew of 8 talented funk members from Melbourne who have plenty of heart and soul. Stepping into Veludo Bar I felt I was taken to another world. Dancers were grooving away on the dance floor and the 8 members somehow fitted onto a very small stage! The female singer, Stunning Diva Davis (who was wearing a fantastic outfit and I loved her shoes!!!), was in the middle of the stage, singing her heart out surrounded by some hunky men. First set started with an instrumental song followed by colourful tunes like ‘kiss my neck’ ‘what have you done for me lately’ and carwash’. The horn section was a pleasure to watch as they were all smiles and totally enjoying the music they produce. Audience members were dancing away enthralled by the groovy music. Afro Centric Dave Dharumasena is the second vocalist with a deep melodic voice which suited the sound.
The second and third set consisted of tunes such as ‘ain’t no other woman’ ‘right on’ ‘Valerie’ and ‘dance with me’. One gets the impression that there could be no one in the room and Soul Glo would have an awesome time. They gel together and create the perfect mix of funk and groove.
Watching the band play together you feel like you are taken on a ride of a funky and groovy lifetime. They are playing around Melbourne in the next few months so check them out!
Watching the band play together you feel like you are taken on a ride of a funky and groovy lifetime. They are playing around Melbourne in the next few months so check them out!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Dallas Crane at Hi Fi Bar and Ballroom
Band: Dallas Crane
Venue: Hi Fi Bar and Ballroom
Date: 30th May 2008
Reviewed By: Danelle Lee
Photos By: Danelle Lee
(please do not copy photos without permission)
Rumour has it that this Gig was the last Dallas Crane gig, which some might say was backed up by the fact that they didn't play any new material; had a big fan fare of fans up on the stage (of which I was one), and they even brought back their original bass player Chris. Rumour also has it that the band are in fact about to make a new album (sans MX May 30th) and if the band were to ever have a farewell gig it would be held at The Espy. Whichever rumour you prefer to favour the crowd loved the Crane, and I would personally be gutted if the band departed. Even the thought of it brings a tissue to dab at the wetness in my eyes. Nothing beats the rootsie dirty rock of The Crane, and tonight was no different. For me it felt like an old school reunion. It's been nearly two years since the band last played at the Hi Fi and a little less than that since they played at all. I ran into so many people that I haven't seen for years, and the set list compounded this for me. A set list of all the greats, spanning all of their albums, keeping all fans old and new very very happy, God Damn Pride, Sit on my Knee, Wrong Party, Numb all Over, Can't Work You Out, Dirty Heart and the list continues. I have to admit the night rocked and unlike most gigs there was no one sing-a-long song, every song was treated like a great by the crowd. Dave is a great showman, and one of my personal favourite acts is counting how many songs in, it takes for him to loose whichever hat he is wearing. Tonight it was by about the fourth song. Of course there are a few attempts to put it back on his head, but it never stays there for long. And who would Dave be if he wasn't well and truly drenched in sweat by the end of the gig, well it just wouldn't be a Crane gig if he was dryzabone now would it? I always feel that Shannon gets lost in the back there, hidden behind all the other band members, especially when he's not on a particularly high platform. But that's no slur at his playing, it's just sad because I didn't get much chance to ogle at my favourite piece of band candy, but i digress. It was a real night of comradery with all members talents on show equally impressive, that I really can't pin point any one solo as being any better than the other. I think has a lot to do with the attitude of the band on the night and Dave repetitively noting Dallas Crane to the audience ensuring that all members were constantly considered as a whole. Me, the group of friends I was with and every lost friend that I re-encountered that night had an incredible time. Dallas Crane epitomizes Melbourne rock and Melburniuns attitude to rock. It's a homely business with a lot of beer and all your friends celebrating a little piece of Australia. Oh how I love it and everything it stands for.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Milk in Brunswick
Band: Milk
Venue: Brunswick Hotel
Date: 1st June 2008
Reviewed By: Heather
This was a special performance for me - it doubled as a benefit (called Songs For Mary) for a friend's sister's family, who are going through a very difficult time with cancer. On that side of things there was a wonderful result, with the money raised exceeding expectations.
I had (shock, horror!) never set foot inside the Brunswick Hotel until that afternoon. I was pleasantly surprised by the clean look of the bar and the good size of the venue. Not too big, but certainly not poky. The biggest feature of the interior was the record wall. They had the most fantastic collection of vintage record sleeves displayed, and it provided a great source of conversation along with a little laughter at some of the more interesting cover artwork.
Milk were just taking the stage as we arrived around fifteen minutes after the advertised time. Their sound? Predominantly folk/roots, with a strong jazz influence and a touch of soul - oh, and some country thrown in for good measure.
The four members of the band are Helen Begley (Vocals, Guitar, Accordion), Emily Hayes (Vocals, percussion), Greg Craske (Vocals, Double Bass) and Teal Bain-Roben (Percussion). Oh, but the guitar was passed around freely between Helen and Emily, and when the ukeleles were on stage everybody seemed to be an expert. Separately they are obviously all great artists, but put them together and the blend is incredible. Helen has a rich and deep, solid tone that contrasts and harmonises perfectly with Emily's clear and sweet jazz voice. When you add the harmonies from both Greg and Teal the effect was breathtaking - a single sound that had a depth and clarity I've rarely seen. Sometimes it was difficult to hear where the melody ended and the harmony began. Songwriting is their strong point. A great sounds without lyrics to match tends to be empty, but every single song told a story.
Their set was varied, including songs from their current album (Shipwrecked at the Royal Oak) along with older songs and even a cover of I Will Survive thrown in at the end as a tribute to Mary's family. However, the standout song was one with a strong story behind it: All Aboard. It was written about their time with activists in the Tasmanian forests who were living on a pirate ship in protest. Emily described it as a song of mourning for the ship and those who lived on it. You can hear it on their Myspace, but that recording doesn't even come close to doing it justice. Hearing it live gave me goosebumps. It's to appear on a Wilderness Society Benefit CD entitled Forests Forever, which includes a huge lineup of Aussie artists.
Milk are not fading into the horizon - they're playing at the Forests Forever CD Launch at the East Brunswick Club on June 8th, and they have a month's residency coming up at the Brunswick Hotel too.
Have a listen to the Myspace or buy their CD, but if you can, get to a live gig. There really is no substitute.
Venue: Brunswick Hotel
Date: 1st June 2008
Reviewed By: Heather
This was a special performance for me - it doubled as a benefit (called Songs For Mary) for a friend's sister's family, who are going through a very difficult time with cancer. On that side of things there was a wonderful result, with the money raised exceeding expectations.
I had (shock, horror!) never set foot inside the Brunswick Hotel until that afternoon. I was pleasantly surprised by the clean look of the bar and the good size of the venue. Not too big, but certainly not poky. The biggest feature of the interior was the record wall. They had the most fantastic collection of vintage record sleeves displayed, and it provided a great source of conversation along with a little laughter at some of the more interesting cover artwork.
Milk were just taking the stage as we arrived around fifteen minutes after the advertised time. Their sound? Predominantly folk/roots, with a strong jazz influence and a touch of soul - oh, and some country thrown in for good measure.
The four members of the band are Helen Begley (Vocals, Guitar, Accordion), Emily Hayes (Vocals, percussion), Greg Craske (Vocals, Double Bass) and Teal Bain-Roben (Percussion). Oh, but the guitar was passed around freely between Helen and Emily, and when the ukeleles were on stage everybody seemed to be an expert. Separately they are obviously all great artists, but put them together and the blend is incredible. Helen has a rich and deep, solid tone that contrasts and harmonises perfectly with Emily's clear and sweet jazz voice. When you add the harmonies from both Greg and Teal the effect was breathtaking - a single sound that had a depth and clarity I've rarely seen. Sometimes it was difficult to hear where the melody ended and the harmony began. Songwriting is their strong point. A great sounds without lyrics to match tends to be empty, but every single song told a story.
Their set was varied, including songs from their current album (Shipwrecked at the Royal Oak) along with older songs and even a cover of I Will Survive thrown in at the end as a tribute to Mary's family. However, the standout song was one with a strong story behind it: All Aboard. It was written about their time with activists in the Tasmanian forests who were living on a pirate ship in protest. Emily described it as a song of mourning for the ship and those who lived on it. You can hear it on their Myspace, but that recording doesn't even come close to doing it justice. Hearing it live gave me goosebumps. It's to appear on a Wilderness Society Benefit CD entitled Forests Forever, which includes a huge lineup of Aussie artists.
Milk are not fading into the horizon - they're playing at the Forests Forever CD Launch at the East Brunswick Club on June 8th, and they have a month's residency coming up at the Brunswick Hotel too.
Have a listen to the Myspace or buy their CD, but if you can, get to a live gig. There really is no substitute.
Root takes on The Espy!
Photo: Mark Geisel
I had expectation of the band Root! I thought they'd have to be a great band to see live. I have to say I wasn’t disappointed. A fantastic show, lots of great songs with much comical humour. The band put their all into the set and the crowd lapped it up. Out they came in suits and cowboy hats, very stylish I must ad! The front bar of the espy was chock o block, and the anticipation could be felt in the air. I mean who could blame the crowd for this! ‘Jet’ started the set; ‘get up’ was next, more of a talking song with great keyboards. Shazza, orange people glowing we’re told by front man DC Root, and out he came walking through the crowd, truly inspiring lyrics…not. ‘Spring me out of Caroline Springs’ was a hoot, the names sums that song up! ‘Pauline’ (yep Hanson), quote ‘she made the digestion of chewing gum seem quick’! A song called Crown summed up pokies and was sung in tune of hokey pokey, quite the crowd tickler. ‘Back to mine’ (not sure if this correct title) had a rock country feel – rhyming words with emo – clever adapted song.; ‘I wish I was Tex Perkins’ (he eats roots and leaves), this song most people would know, a highly hilarious song of the man that is Tex Perkins. To sum up, a show that was quirky, funny, full of hilarity, well dressed men, comical, musical as well as being raw, so I recommend you go see Root. Nothing quite compares really…..
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Gyroscope at Hi Fi Bar and Ballroom
Band: Gyroscope with Young and Restless
Venue: Hi Fi Bar and Ballroom
Date: 17th may 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Young and Restless started the night in a blaze of rock and roll. The band seemed to be fully into their set, showering it with all their must. I felt the crowd weren’t as into the band, maybe the main band was all they wanted, of course there were many cheers but didn’t set the crowd alight. There were those few moshing at the front, but needless to say, doesn’t mean they don’t rock. The band has been together since 2005. Karina, ever the rock chick, belted out the tunes, and when she removed her skirt to show us an almost ‘Sandi from grease’ outfit, the boys in the crowd stood up!
Gyroscope started with a bang, four hunky boys on stage and the crowd went nuts. Not my kind of hunky, but judging from some girl’s reactions a few would have taken any member home. The lead singer and guitarist Daniel Sanders and drummer Rob Nassif remind me of boys found on chapel st in pink and white tops and trendy hair do’s, Zoran Trivic looks like a rapper and Brad Campbell is the rock of the group. First song ‘weapon’ got the punters shaking and moshing. Other songs include ‘midnight’ ‘these days’ ‘ok’ 1981’ ‘driving’ ‘safe forever’. Daniel decided to join the crowd for the song ‘safe forever’ and he stayed in the crowd singing for a while. Brad sung great backing vocals. More songs were ‘all in on one’ ‘beware’ and ‘Doctor’ rocked with backing vocals by Brad.
Finished with ‘snakeskin’, which really is a fantastic song. They only played for one hour literally and managed to fit in 17 songs all up! I’m not used to such short gigs and my friend and I thought maybe the kids of today haven’t the energy to listen to a band for longer!!? I admit I am yet to own one of their cd’s so I didn’t know a few songs but overall these guys put on a great show, the crowd loved them. A sold out hi fi bar tells me this band will be around for a while.
Venue: Hi Fi Bar and Ballroom
Date: 17th may 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Young and Restless started the night in a blaze of rock and roll. The band seemed to be fully into their set, showering it with all their must. I felt the crowd weren’t as into the band, maybe the main band was all they wanted, of course there were many cheers but didn’t set the crowd alight. There were those few moshing at the front, but needless to say, doesn’t mean they don’t rock. The band has been together since 2005. Karina, ever the rock chick, belted out the tunes, and when she removed her skirt to show us an almost ‘Sandi from grease’ outfit, the boys in the crowd stood up!
Gyroscope started with a bang, four hunky boys on stage and the crowd went nuts. Not my kind of hunky, but judging from some girl’s reactions a few would have taken any member home. The lead singer and guitarist Daniel Sanders and drummer Rob Nassif remind me of boys found on chapel st in pink and white tops and trendy hair do’s, Zoran Trivic looks like a rapper and Brad Campbell is the rock of the group. First song ‘weapon’ got the punters shaking and moshing. Other songs include ‘midnight’ ‘these days’ ‘ok’ 1981’ ‘driving’ ‘safe forever’. Daniel decided to join the crowd for the song ‘safe forever’ and he stayed in the crowd singing for a while. Brad sung great backing vocals. More songs were ‘all in on one’ ‘beware’ and ‘Doctor’ rocked with backing vocals by Brad.
Finished with ‘snakeskin’, which really is a fantastic song. They only played for one hour literally and managed to fit in 17 songs all up! I’m not used to such short gigs and my friend and I thought maybe the kids of today haven’t the energy to listen to a band for longer!!? I admit I am yet to own one of their cd’s so I didn’t know a few songs but overall these guys put on a great show, the crowd loved them. A sold out hi fi bar tells me this band will be around for a while.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Atmospheric Cog
Band: Cog with Kora and Jakob
Venue: Palace Nightclub
Date: 15th may 2008
Reviewed By:Lyn Harder
Venue: Palace Nightclub
Date: 15th may 2008
Reviewed By:Lyn Harder
Photographs By: Mark Geisel
Tonight was my first night at the new palace venue and I must say hats off to the management for fixing the place, love the fact the bar which used to be in the middle of the room is now on the right hand side. Jakob were already playing on arrival. A truly remarkable instrumental band. Watching them makes me wish I could usher everybody out of the room then place a bed on the dance floor and have my way with my partner! The music was hypnotic, flowing and amazing.
After a long break NZ band Kora arrived and brought with them a mix of electronica, rock and even some island sounding tunes. Most of it I enjoyed, the more electronica isn’t my thing, but the crowd certainly thought it was. One almost thought the Haka was going to break out.
After another long break (way too long –45 mins) we are entertained with John Farnham’s ‘You’re the voice’ blaring out of the speakers, and who would have thought it, but most of the crowd in their black tees and tattoos were singing to good ole Johnny! Cog came on stage and started with ‘No other way’ then crept into ‘Bird of feather’ which sounded fantastic live, such a brilliant song. Other songs include “Resonate’, ‘Are you interested?’, and ‘Four Walls’. ‘Spine' got the crowd going and pumped us up even further. An amazing live song and one of my faves (I just can’t go past the guitar solo, one of the best). “Sharing Space’ which is the latest album title , ‘Real Life’ which included drum solo, and speaking of the drum kit, what an amazing piece of equipment, looking like a space craft, part illuminating and part ‘who can not look at it in awe’. The drum kit was placed high up in the middle of stage like he was king on a throne.
After a long break NZ band Kora arrived and brought with them a mix of electronica, rock and even some island sounding tunes. Most of it I enjoyed, the more electronica isn’t my thing, but the crowd certainly thought it was. One almost thought the Haka was going to break out.
After another long break (way too long –45 mins) we are entertained with John Farnham’s ‘You’re the voice’ blaring out of the speakers, and who would have thought it, but most of the crowd in their black tees and tattoos were singing to good ole Johnny! Cog came on stage and started with ‘No other way’ then crept into ‘Bird of feather’ which sounded fantastic live, such a brilliant song. Other songs include “Resonate’, ‘Are you interested?’, and ‘Four Walls’. ‘Spine' got the crowd going and pumped us up even further. An amazing live song and one of my faves (I just can’t go past the guitar solo, one of the best). “Sharing Space’ which is the latest album title , ‘Real Life’ which included drum solo, and speaking of the drum kit, what an amazing piece of equipment, looking like a space craft, part illuminating and part ‘who can not look at it in awe’. The drum kit was placed high up in the middle of stage like he was king on a throne.
Other songs were ‘The Movies’ an old classic ‘Moshiach’ ‘Swamp’, ‘Town of Lincoln’, and ‘My Enemy’. They ended on a different song ‘Bitter Pills’, adding acoustic guitar it was rather a nice ending to the gig, a creeper of a song that is slow then fast. I’ve been following Cog for about 3 years now and they are a fantastic live band. Though I have to ad ‘sharing Space” for me doesn’t get me going like ‘The New Normal’ or ‘Just visiting EP’s’ and I wish they’d sing more off the latter mentioned EP. Apparently Sharing Space was supposed to be recorded in 5 months and ended up taking 10 months, recorded in the US. The lighting guy did an amazing job, really added to a lot of songs. I did notice the gower boys didn’t have lights directly on them so they looked like were in fog at times, not that that was a bad thing. I was asked to mention by a guy called Lachy that Cog sound like atmospheric frog stomp music! Cog is about the music and putting on a great show and that I must say, they do.
Friday, May 9, 2008
James Blunt takes on Rod Laver Arena
Photos By Lyn Harder:
I think as far as a venue goes, Rod Laver really is too big for solo artists although for James Blunt the arena does try to create a more intimate space by curtaining off the top tier. This still makes an artist work hard to keep a 10,000 strong audience feel included in the performance. However James made it seem effortless with a few songs in recognising all audience members from General Admin through to those in the stix, complimenting Australia as one of his strongest fan bases and this Melbourne gig being one of his biggest turnouts. I don't know what this says about Australians but from my observation of the fans I'd say that it's pretty mixed, with a reasonably large percentage going to the 40+. Yes Mr Blunt is someone you wouldn't take home to meet your mother because she'd most likely try and get a piece of his well spoken, four day furry fuzzed, spoken face all for herself. Regarding the male turnout begs the question of how many were dragged by their girlfriends. However due to the amount of shout outs during the show, it seems that Blunt has a reasonable independent male following as well. The Show opened with 'Give me some Love' from the new Album All The Lost Souls, this track set the president for a show that was never going to be fast paced with huge feats of physical stage dominance but about creating an atmosphere that encouraged the audience to think about the content of his songs hitting an intelligent chord and not just an emotional one. This was backed up by the opening video which was a preview to Al Gores " An Inconvenient Truth" and later enhanced by footage of war torn Kosovo during "No Bravery". There is something of the social activist in Blunt (even though to some he might seem like a commercial sellout) commenting during his dialogue with the audience, on societies celebrity obsession "with whether Britney Spears is wearing knickers or not", adding that 'his first album did things that he never thought would and possibly didn't want to'.I would have been very suprised if any fan in the audience didn't have both of Blunts albums and he kept everyone happy by playing a huge selection of songs from the first album as well as his new one. 'Goodbye My Lover' was the crowd singalong and was always going to be a personal favourite of mine, along with 'I Really Want You' and 'Shine On'. It was amusing to find out that 'Goodbye My Lover' is the No# 1 song played at funerals and 'Your Beautiful' No#1 at weddings, which is quite ironic if you think of it. I'm not too sure why but alot of his songs seemed to take on a slower tempo, particularly during 'I Really Want you' which is one song that I would have liked to have kepted up beat. His band were great however i'm not too sure how long they've been together, with Blunt as the star of the show his interaction with his band fell short of any personal connection and felt strictly professional. As for the stage design it felt like someone had ravaged a prop box and desided to use whatever they wanted whether it was apropriate or not, for example the Gong making one brief appearence at the end of 'So Long Jimmy' and disappearing. Then there was the Disco ball for '1973' and the net of lights that at some point during the show were rigged up and several songs later pulled down, never really adding or devaluing anything from the performance. However as I stated at the beginning, the show wasn't about theatrics but the music. I just wish whoever raided the magic box would just put all those gadgets back in it, they just weren't necessary. All in all I had a very satisfying evening, even though when I stood up half way through the very last song '1973' some old lady tapped me on the shoulder to sit down, to which I replied she should stand up, the cheek. James pushed all my buttons and I would gladly let him push some more, there really is just something about the way he sings, speaks and his furry face that just makes me ripple with that loving feeling.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Band: Juliet and the Licks with support by The Gingers
Venue: Prince of Wales, melbourne
Date: 27th April 2008
Reviewed By:Lyn Harder
Venue: Prince of Wales, melbourne
Date: 27th April 2008
Reviewed By:Lyn Harder
Photographer: Mark Geisel
Many braved a cold night to see Juliet and the licks and from what I’ve heard about their music, we all knew it would be worth venturing out to see.
The Gingers opened the night with their great set of punk, fast paced, school garage rock music. I still find it strange that bands don't put a name on drum kit or somewhere. They are a 4 piece band from Melbourne and the crowd embraced them tonight. A song that stood out for me was ‘I wanna love you but i can't' a catchy doo wop song with groovy chorus.
We all waited in a room filled almost to the max to see Juliet and the Licks, a band who have been around for five years and are making their dint in the rock world. Many punters wore colourful feather head bands mimicking their singer, their hero.
Right on time the band enter, Todd Morse on guitar, Jason Womack on bass, drummer Ed Davis. I was wondering where Juliet was as the crowd was going nuts, and it wasn’t until she slinked up the microphone stand that I saw her and realised why the front of the room was cheering! She started singing 'Inside the cage' and the crowd go even more nuts. She plays to the crowd embracing their hugs. Juliet definitely knows how to work the stage; I’d say her former life as an actor has taught her this. Her jacket is removed after the third song and after lots of head shaking her feather head piece is shaken off and any composure (if there even was any) is gone now.
When 'bull shit king' is played the drummer shows us his impressive drumming skills. Juliet loves to swing her hair around; I don’t think I’ve ever seen so much hair flicking and leg kicking. Then we are given a song for the ladies and Juliet leaps into crowd and sings 'coming around'. Juliet runs off and we're left with bass music thumping through our bodies. Back she comes with costume change, blind folds herself and dancers erotically whilst singing ‘death of a whore' which is a groovy rock song, very theatrical with out all the costumes. Juliet really goes off like a fire cracker. She loves to talk to the crowd. When watching her sing 'Purgatory blues' I find I just can't stop watching her. One person tells me it’s almost like watching an aerobics class! Hmmm…not sure about that! The band puts in a show that is 110% rock. 'This i know' is a romantic song and one which stands out for me as she kisses the crowds hands and cheeks. Awesome guitar lead by Todd for 'hot deal' then the licks do a song for us ‘Aussies’, an ACDC cover of ‘dirty deeds’, Juliet grabs a hat from a punter as it looks like Brian Johnson’s. Backing vocals are fantastic in dirty deeds, they got that grunt going on, a few vocal mishaps but overall a great version.
Always been a dream of Juliet’s to get a band started and she feels amazing. 'Get up' is a song about leaving what she knows to pursue a musical career; this has cheery start to the music. 'So amazing' she sings with the audience, making them sing in sections of the room but this didn’t go for long, most people preferred her to do the singing! A short encore then ‘Pray for Latoya’ which is a song for the band because she can apparently be difficult to work with.
They go with bows and kisses and Juliet tells us it'll be a while till they're back as going to record new album.
Licks fever has come and gone and mesmerised us all and the punters face the brave cold night outside.
The Gingers opened the night with their great set of punk, fast paced, school garage rock music. I still find it strange that bands don't put a name on drum kit or somewhere. They are a 4 piece band from Melbourne and the crowd embraced them tonight. A song that stood out for me was ‘I wanna love you but i can't' a catchy doo wop song with groovy chorus.
We all waited in a room filled almost to the max to see Juliet and the Licks, a band who have been around for five years and are making their dint in the rock world. Many punters wore colourful feather head bands mimicking their singer, their hero.
Right on time the band enter, Todd Morse on guitar, Jason Womack on bass, drummer Ed Davis. I was wondering where Juliet was as the crowd was going nuts, and it wasn’t until she slinked up the microphone stand that I saw her and realised why the front of the room was cheering! She started singing 'Inside the cage' and the crowd go even more nuts. She plays to the crowd embracing their hugs. Juliet definitely knows how to work the stage; I’d say her former life as an actor has taught her this. Her jacket is removed after the third song and after lots of head shaking her feather head piece is shaken off and any composure (if there even was any) is gone now.
When 'bull shit king' is played the drummer shows us his impressive drumming skills. Juliet loves to swing her hair around; I don’t think I’ve ever seen so much hair flicking and leg kicking. Then we are given a song for the ladies and Juliet leaps into crowd and sings 'coming around'. Juliet runs off and we're left with bass music thumping through our bodies. Back she comes with costume change, blind folds herself and dancers erotically whilst singing ‘death of a whore' which is a groovy rock song, very theatrical with out all the costumes. Juliet really goes off like a fire cracker. She loves to talk to the crowd. When watching her sing 'Purgatory blues' I find I just can't stop watching her. One person tells me it’s almost like watching an aerobics class! Hmmm…not sure about that! The band puts in a show that is 110% rock. 'This i know' is a romantic song and one which stands out for me as she kisses the crowds hands and cheeks. Awesome guitar lead by Todd for 'hot deal' then the licks do a song for us ‘Aussies’, an ACDC cover of ‘dirty deeds’, Juliet grabs a hat from a punter as it looks like Brian Johnson’s. Backing vocals are fantastic in dirty deeds, they got that grunt going on, a few vocal mishaps but overall a great version.
Always been a dream of Juliet’s to get a band started and she feels amazing. 'Get up' is a song about leaving what she knows to pursue a musical career; this has cheery start to the music. 'So amazing' she sings with the audience, making them sing in sections of the room but this didn’t go for long, most people preferred her to do the singing! A short encore then ‘Pray for Latoya’ which is a song for the band because she can apparently be difficult to work with.
They go with bows and kisses and Juliet tells us it'll be a while till they're back as going to record new album.
Licks fever has come and gone and mesmerised us all and the punters face the brave cold night outside.
Messing with the Foo Fighters
Band: Foo Fighters with support Kaki King and The Mess Hall
Venue: Rod Laver Arena
Date: 26th April 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Venue: Rod Laver Arena
Date: 26th April 2008
Reviewed By: Lyn Harder
Photographs By: Mark Geisel
We arrived early to find Kaki King from NYC playing amazing slide guitar with groovy back beats. I was quite blown away with her sound, reminded me of John Butler Trio, but without the singing! The Mess Hall (Sydney), an awesome two piece band started with grunt. A nice big white sheet with their name painted on it was the back drop, effective without the cost! Set list includes ‘pils’ and the rock beat song ‘pulse’ then ‘metal and hair’ and finally their big hit ‘keep walking’. They didn’t play long to my disappointment. Great support act enjoyed by many who had already turned up for the show.
Tonight’s show is sold out. The crowd go nuts when Dave and co bound out. Long haired Dave runs down the walk way which is about ¾ length on the ground, his number one aim tonight seems to be obtaining applause. Tonight there are 8 members on stage including newest member on double bass, Jessie Green. Songs include ‘pretender’, ‘times like these’, ‘break out, and ‘learn to fly’. Dave plays and plays on the crowd’s vibe and love for him. He runs from one side to the other sinking his vibe into the guitar whilst creating pandemonium! The entire band give 110% to the show and certainly indulge in the attention. A long instrumental break (too long for my liking) then to the punters amazement a second stage descends from the rood about ¾ way on the floor and sits on the end of the run way. The FF head to it, again creating noise galore, and the less rock part of the night begins. ‘Skin and bones’, ‘marigold’ and ‘hero’ are the songs played. Ronnie on keyboards, Chris on guitar, Jessie on double bass, Drew on cow bell/chimes/triangle who gives us a bit of a solo of his instruments! Lucky last is Taylor on drums. Dave would go to any of the three microphones so all viewing aspects are covered of him to the audience. The introductions of all these band members went for way too long. Taylor sings rather nicely on ‘cold man’ then we hear ‘but honestly’ and ‘ballad of the Beaconsfield minors’ with Kaki King. Finally they run back to the rock stage and give us ‘monkey wrench’ and ‘one by one’. Encore and Dave amuses us with his videoing of himself talking to the crowd then they’re back with Jessie Green and Dave taking on a song together which worked well. Last songs include ‘long road to ruin’, ‘generator’ and lastly ‘best of you’.
Tonight’s show is sold out. The crowd go nuts when Dave and co bound out. Long haired Dave runs down the walk way which is about ¾ length on the ground, his number one aim tonight seems to be obtaining applause. Tonight there are 8 members on stage including newest member on double bass, Jessie Green. Songs include ‘pretender’, ‘times like these’, ‘break out, and ‘learn to fly’. Dave plays and plays on the crowd’s vibe and love for him. He runs from one side to the other sinking his vibe into the guitar whilst creating pandemonium! The entire band give 110% to the show and certainly indulge in the attention. A long instrumental break (too long for my liking) then to the punters amazement a second stage descends from the rood about ¾ way on the floor and sits on the end of the run way. The FF head to it, again creating noise galore, and the less rock part of the night begins. ‘Skin and bones’, ‘marigold’ and ‘hero’ are the songs played. Ronnie on keyboards, Chris on guitar, Jessie on double bass, Drew on cow bell/chimes/triangle who gives us a bit of a solo of his instruments! Lucky last is Taylor on drums. Dave would go to any of the three microphones so all viewing aspects are covered of him to the audience. The introductions of all these band members went for way too long. Taylor sings rather nicely on ‘cold man’ then we hear ‘but honestly’ and ‘ballad of the Beaconsfield minors’ with Kaki King. Finally they run back to the rock stage and give us ‘monkey wrench’ and ‘one by one’. Encore and Dave amuses us with his videoing of himself talking to the crowd then they’re back with Jessie Green and Dave taking on a song together which worked well. Last songs include ‘long road to ruin’, ‘generator’ and lastly ‘best of you’.
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