Karnivool at The Hifi Bar and Ballroom

Band: Karnivool
Venue: The Hifi Bar and Ballroom
Date: 5th July 2012
Reviewed By: Lyn Geisel

Karnivool know how to bring fans out of their warm cosy beds and down into the depths of the Hi Fi Bar & Ballroom on a cold winters night. I finally accepted that the main band weren’t going to start until about 11pm on a school night (all times were completely out from their answering machine message) so down into the main room I went, watched by the tired eyes of punters along the way.

Redcoats were just starting as I found my way into the already packed room and into a snug void I watched, as the four piece Melbourne band took to stage and although my senses weren’t captivated initially, I soon discovered with perhaps a new listening ear after the second song, that the singer’s voice was a little on the same page as Chris Cornell in sound and together there was almost a Led Zep style. I say almost because even though the band is talented and the singer has a unique style of vocals, for me I wasn’t convinced that together they fit. Don’t get me wrong, talented bunch of blokes!

So, a half hour wait, then the lights dim, the crowd roars and after a bit more of a wait then the smoke teases us, the lights tease us some more by flickering, the crowd start cheering ‘Karnivool” and finally they arrive. Ian looking less rock than other members who don the traditional black except drummer, Steve Judds, who only had pants on and let’s just say bless him for that! Into The Refusal they cruise giving way for the next tune, Goliath, which fused with a top lighting show. Ian welcomes us to the tour and into Deadman he sings, before Simple Boy starts with lush guitar from Andrew ‘Drew’ Goddard and the keyboard added a nice level to the song. C.O.T.E (Centre of the Earth) is a fave of mine and the head banging in the audience demonstrates how loved this song is. The blue lights on stage is reminiscent of being underwater for the new song as Ian takes the stage like a praying mantis and then into All I Know and hecklers take on Ian after this song and bring  laughter into the room. Jon Stockman knows how to work the bass and did I mention Steve Judd on drums giving us girls some new lease on life and perhaps the blokes feeling like they’d better hit the gym in the morning! ( I may have mentioned him….) Mark Hosking brings the band together on guitar and vocals and together all five members make the sweet music that is Karnivool. Roquefort and the unbelievable Themata bring the crowds on its toes and lucky last is New Day before we all pile out the door and head into the cold cold early morning of Friday in Melbourne and realise that work isn’t so far away, but to hell with that, we all saw one amazing Perth based band sink their vocal chords, fingers and feet into a solid performance tonight. Talented musicians who can grace the stage night and night and give it their all are few and far between and these boys show us how its done. How many of you are going again tonight I wonder?!

as read on www.theaureview.com

Roxette - They've got the hits!

Band: Roxette with 1927
Venue: Rod Laver Arena
Date: February 18th 2012
Reviewed By: Espylyn

1927 are amazing tonight, the band and the crowd were in fine form and singer Erik employs strong vocals that cruises through Rod Laver Arena and the fans are disappointed. A band that formed in 1987 and still tours to this very day - a fact I didn't realise until the band mentioned they played for the Aussie troops last year as well as supporting Simple Minds. Hits such as “ that’s When I Think of You” and ‘If I could” got the crowd moving whilst the rockier songs such as “You’ll Never Know” and “Compulsory Hero” (dedicated to the Aussie troops) gave punters reason to dance and let loose..

Roxette entered and 'Dressed for Success' was received with full applause and smiles. Each time I looked around, the audience were beaming and the band reciprocated this. 'Sleeping in My Car', 'Only When I Dream' and 'Crash!Boom!Bang' were crowd pleasers. Swedish singers Marie Fredrikksson (vocals) and Per Gessle (vocals and guitar) belted out hit after hit and the voices were impeccable. Marie (who has survived a brain tumor) was gold tonight, a tiny lass with a big voice. Per Gessle took playing guitar to another level. I wish I could remember the other guitarist because he was a Muppet, but in a hilarious, great showman type of a way. I say Muppet as he bounced all over stage with his shaggy hair! 'Joyride' ended the first set and it wasn't long till we got 'The Look' and 'Spending My Time'. Another break and into 'Listen To Your Heart' they cruised and ending with 'Church Of The Heart' was a flat ending I thought as its a slower song but I guess all artists have their reasons for why they end on the song they do.

Pop Queen Kylie on the Anti Tour

Band: Kylie Minogue - Anti Tour

Venue: The Palace

Date: 18th March 2012

Reviewed By: Espylyn

Want to know how to gain street cred as well as fan cred? Put on a show with songs that are rarities and b-sides like Kylie Minogue recently did, and boom, mix that together and you’ll have more love and recognition for someone who really has climbed up the musical staircase and laughed at those who didn’t believe in her. I witnessed the first of the Melbourne show’s and all up heard twenty-two songs, everything from iTunes bonus tracks, b-sides to singles and songs not sung from her biggest selling albums. Starting with Magnetic Fields (ITunes bonus track) she bounced around on stage as though she’d never been seen in grandeur costumes or stage sets that would feed a third world country, instead Kylie wore short denim shorts, a picture of Marilyn Monroe on a sleeveless tee shirt and, naturally, high heels. The crowd went berserk, and who could blame them, those who managed to get a ticket to a show which sold out in three minutes and then had to line up during the day to get a wrist band, it almost felt like the moment would never arrive.

This current tour is called the Anti Tour and its getting back at the scalpers who rip us off (and really, we allow them to do this), so tickets could not be re-sold, you could only buy two tickets and when you had to arrive early at the venue you brought the other person with you so you both got wristbands slapped on the wrist. The wristbands didn’t have barcodes, which is what I was expecting and the writing on the bands did rub off, but hey, we do as we’re told don’t we! Moving on….

Made In Heaven (b-side to Je Ne Sais Pas Pourquoi), followed by Cherry bomb (from the single Wow) and BPM (b-side to I Believe In You) and a smiling Kylie took us back and forth on a journey that I truly believe most fans wouldn’t ever have imagined - witnessing a super star at The Palace. Might rivers (Aphrodite bonus track), I’m Over Dreaming Over You (from the Enjoy Yourself album) Always Find the Time (from Let’s Get To It album) and Kylie introduced her band and it was around this time, whilst I moved a tad further up the back, a few punters came in believing the show shouldn’t have even started as the ticket agency had different times on the emails and running sheets so Kylie actually started an hour earlier than advertised , although due to the fact the venue was chockers it amazing there wasn’t more late punters.

You’re The One (from what I can find of this there are only 2 demos available only – studio versions), Tightrope (from Fever album – bonus disc), Paper dolls (b-side to Spinning Around single) and Stars (from X her 10^th studio album) brought down the house with screams of absolute adulation and no doubt a lot of people tonight were taken back down memory lane. Drunk and Say Hey (from Impossible Princess album), Too Much (from Aphrodite album) and bringing up the rear is Bittersweet Goodbye (from Light Years album). I honestly thought we were going to be given a show of about an hour in length but in total it was almost two hours. The sound tonight is humble compared to the ample sound system of an arena but Kylie was no doubt very comfortable with the way tonight’s proceedings were headed and if you had just walked into the venue one would never guess Kylie was a mega star selling out gazillions of arenas around the globe.

Disco down (from Light Year album), I Don’ t Need Anyone (from Impossible Princess album) and the hit Got To Be certain (from debut album Kylie) got all the queens in the audience on their heels lapping up the Kylie sweat until Things Can Only Get Better (Rhythm of Love album) ended but naturally like any band, it wasn’t long before Kyles was back wearing a new outfit but just as skimpy and casual and into That’s Why They Write Love Songs (from X album) and then a heartfelt Tears on My Pillow (from Enjoy Yourself album )which she dedicated for her dad – who was in the audience and we are told this is one of his favourites and finally Kylie pulls out an old merchandise scarf that she managed to scrounge, wraps it around her neck and lastly we hear Enjoy Yourself (her second album release). Nice work Kylie, let’s hope some of the other bands head into more intimate shows although I should be so lucky to get tickets next time

Tex Perkins shows us his Band of Gold

Band: Tex Perkins and the Band of Gold

Venue: Regal Ballroom

Date: 17th February 2012

Reviewed By: Espylyn

Tonight, the lovely Regal Ballroom in Northcote is full of punters enjoying a lazy wine and a meal before being entertained by the legendary Tex Perkins and his Band of Gold. The latest Tex craze is a band of colourful (and perhaps, not so colourful) country cover songs. It’s a far cry from Beasts of Bourbon and The Cruel Sea and as those who are aware of the Tex phenomenon; there is plenty of his music for all sorts of listening ears. The Band of Gold’s music concocts a contemporary sound of country, blended with Tex’s fine humour giving it that warm tasty palate in the mouth feeling. If you’re not into country music, then this band and music probably isn’t for you, the songs are mainly about wanting to be with a girl and breaking up with a girl and a touch of wanting too many girls (isn't all country lyrics about this I hear you ask!).

Band of Gold is Tex Perkins and Rachael Tidd on vocals with Steve Hadly on bass, Matt Walker on guitar, Shane Reilly on slide guitar and ukulele (or as Perkins says, "the sewing machine"!) with Shannon Bourne on guitar and Dave Folley on drums. I daresay this clan derived from the Man In Black (Johnny Cash theater shows) which were, and still are, a huge success around the country. I say this as most band members in Band of Gold are from Man In Black.

Tex Perkins deep, growly voice and Rachael Tidd’s stunning vocals blend together perfectly and together they complement each other to bring us some fine country crooning songs. I feel seeing them live is the preferred experience for me, the album at home is one to chillax too, to have on in the background to enjoy, but live, the humour of Tex Perkins and the magical notes of the band give stealth to the music.

Now, I did head to The Spiegel Tent the night prior to see the band and I thought they were funnier and more relaxed than tonight’s performance, but I’m not here to review The Spiegel Tent's show so onward and upward I go!

Every seat in the Ballroom was filled and the punters were saturated with anticipation as Tex, Rachael and co graced our stage and Tex uttered “I like that quiet respect, it’s a kind of fear isn’t it, you’re right to be afraid” (due to the fact no-one clapped until he said this), and into 'Help Me Make It Through The Night' (Kris Kristofferson) and the vocals of Perkins and Tidd moved through the crowd and their stage presence made a few of us wonder if Tidd, who is pregnant, was carrying Perkins baby (just kidding! love their stage togetherness). Thunderous applause came and receded and Tex says “we’ll be singing a lot of sexy songs tonight” and the lush guitar filters the room while 'Silver Wings' (Merle Haggard) is sung with stunning slide guitar that creeps throughout the song and gives the song a presence of being in Hawaii.

This is the fourth time I’ve seen Band of Gold and they appear to sing the songs in the same order as their released debut album. Next Shane Reilly brings out a much loved instrument, the ukulele, and 'Anyhow I love You' (Guy Clark) takes hold of the room, a catchy, rhyming style of a song that gets the feet tapping. Throughout the rest of the evening songs like 'I’d Rather Be Sorry' (by Kristofferson and “the best song about philosophy” says Perkins), 'Gypsy Rider' (Gene Clark) which is my favourite of the set due to the passion in the lyrics, starting off with Matt Walker on guitar and beautifully set to slide guitar, it really is a magical tune and the lovely 'Kathleen' fill the air tonight.

The first set is over and it feels like time has gone rather too quickly and into encore we head with a great rendition of the Leon Payne’s 'Psych'o (which was covered by Perkins band Beasts of Bourbon around 1993 – “29 years ago” says Perkins) which is brilliant, just brilliant.

The night ends on a Rolling Stones cover called 'The Worst' and I decide the night is one the best in this beautiful venue that is the Regal Ballroom.

as seen at the au review

http://www.theaureview.com/melbourne/tex-perkins-and-the-band-of-gold-regal-ballroom-170212

Icehouse take on Hall & Oates

Band: Hall & Oates with support from Icehouse

Venue: The Plenary

Date: 2nd February 2012

Reviewed By: Espylyn

The Plenary is rather cool venue for tonight’s double header gig of Icehouse and Hall and Oates and the place was very full for the support band, Icehouse, and so it ought to be. The band played to an enthusiastic crowd starting with their hit Icehouse (a song about two large old mansions in Sydney) then straight into We Can Get Together followed by the big hit Crazy. It’s been such a long gap for touring and they did not let us down tonight. The band cruised into Hey Little Girl and it was around here I managed to sneak from my seats near the sound desk to front row (where front man Iva Davies, aka Silver Fox, greeted me with the biggest smile *insert ahh here*) and the show took on a new level. The band were in all in sync and the boys displayed amazing talent and received the applause they deserve. Other songs such as We Can Get Together, Man of Colours (sung mainly by Michael Paynter) followed by Electric Blue (which was written by John Oates) and it was fitting that Oates came out and played guitar and sang Electric Blue with Davies.

Walls got the room pumping whilst Can't Help Myself had punters bouncing out of their chairs and lastly Great Southern Land blew the crowd away. I cannot begin to describe the elation and passion for this band and so far it’s been one of my favourite gigs for a long time which I feel is mainly due to such an absence that the build up of seeing Icehouse live did not disappoint one little bit.

So, after my high of seeing Icehouse, it was time to get ready for the main act. As soon as Daryl Hall and John Oates entered the stage, a couple of hundred punters couldn't help themselves and they grasped the opportunity of getting closer to the boys and ran down to side of stage to dance (the fact you cannot dance here makes the venue not particularly suited to tonight's gig, and I think A Day On The Green may be the better way to witness the band), but everyone seemed to be having a great night and the security certainly had their work cut out for them! It’s been 20 years since Hall and Oates graced our stage and they mentioned this a few times proclaiming that it wouldn't be as long next time. The crowd went bananas tonight as the boys launched into Man Eater, Out of Touch and Adult Education. Six band members proved they all have the right moves to bring to us the music of Hall and Oates; Charlie on sax, Paul on guitar, Elliot on keys, Clide on bass, Brian on drums and Brad (looking amazing) on percussion. Hall calls some of their music Rock and Soul which is rather fitting I thought and he tells us that there are songs they have played at every single gig they have ever performed such as the hit She's Gone. I can't Go For That brought on the encore but it wasn't long and boys were back singing Rich Girl where tambourines glowed in the dark and after another encore the night ended on Kiss On My List which resulted in one fan getting on stage to give Oates a huge hug, it really showed the love for this band as after that, people poured into the aisles and danced the night away. The one thing I was surprised about is that for a band that have spanned across many generations, they didn't play for all that long....

Soundgarden take on the Bowl

Band: Soundgarden

Venue: Sidney Myer Music Bowl

Date: 1st February 2012

Reviewed By: Espylyn

Soundgarden opened the night with Searching With My Good Eye Closed and the roof of the Sidney Myer Music Bowl was brought down with utter adulation and passion for a band that is well respected and much loved. It had been way too long between gigs and when they announced a comeback, thousands of fans grabbed the opportunity to witness the hysteria again. The weather proved to be on our side tonight with clear skies revealing the stars, moon and bats. Into Spoonman and Jesus Christ Pose they band went where Chris displayed a voice that is extraordinarily talented and strong whilst the other band members - Ben, Matt and Kim gave us amazing bass strutts, drums that pounded into the night and guitar bursts to inspire one and all.

A screen was on stage behind curtains at the back and it opened and closed throughout the night and most of it displayed stuff of the 'why bother' kind (except the eye, I heart eyeballs), but with Black Hole Sun the eyeball changed into the sun and from then on the images that burst out were desirable.

Other songs include 4th of July, Loud Love, Hunted Down and The Day I Tried To Live. Twenty songs completed the over two hour set list and punters went home exclaiming over one amazing night performed by a legendary Seattle band.

BTW I think most of the punters around me when home with passive smoking of the stoner kind! oh and the singers name is now Lance!

High Flying Noel Gallagher

Band: Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds
Venue: The Palais Theatre
Date: 31st January 2012
Reviewed By: Espylyn

Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds (formed in 2010) brought with them tonight every English and Irish person from St Kilda and through strobe light after strobe light, we witnessed a 'Gallagher' in action.

A totally sold out crowd pumped the place with passion and uber enthusiasm. Drinks were poured into plastic cups at Noel's request, which tells me he is a paranoid man and I guess with his past, one cannot blame him.

Moving on from his past though.....tonight Noel displayed to punters he is a talented musician. Gracing us with hits off his solo album as well as a few Oasis tracks, the songs all got the crowd leaping out of their seats and into a dancing frenzy.

"Don't Look Back In Anger" ended the night on a total high. Merchandise was sold out before the show was over and those who weren't blinded by the strobe lights were surely blinded by the Gallagher's performance.

Salt N Pepa - Shoop Down Under

Band: Salt N Pepa
Venue: Palais Theatre, St Kilda
Date: 3rd December 2011
Reviewed By: espylyn



Salt N Pepa are a trio who have been around since the clappers and are vaguely hip hop, dance style of rap pop music originating from Queens, New York City when rap was throught to be a phase. They were one of the first female rapper bands with success, and members Cheryl "Salt" James, Sandra "Pepa" Denton and DJ Spinderalla gave us catchy tunes to sing until the cows came home.

Spinderalla doesn't perform with the band (if you read wiki, she is a radio host these days) but the two Salt N Pepa originals, hit the stage and initially stood in pose for a bit (in their glittery armour), lapping in the screams and attention from gooey females and horney one eyed males who waved in contention at the two hotties on stage.

They played covers, Beyonce 'All The Single Ladies' and Kayne West 'Gold Digger' and naturally all their hits spanning over 25 years. A few newies which were also met with applause, but it was without doubt the oldies that caused the most ruckus. 'What A Man', 'Push It' and lastly Shoop' got the duo over the bar and into the heads of the crowd. A crowd that was mixed with look-a-likes, gay and lesbians, few youngies but mainly over 30 year old's and it was no excitement to watch some who were agressive and drunk. Although not a band I generally listen to, Salt N Pepa gave as good as they were years ago and it was obvious the crowd thought so too. With a flurry of screams the patrons staggered out into the night

Dolly Parton - Cowgirls and Giggles

Band: Dolly Parton

Venue: Rod Laver Arena

Date: 23/11/2011

Reviewed By: Espylyn

Dolly Parton entered stage to applause and the pint sized, top heavy, giggling beauty wearing glittery tight outfits gave us five covers initally starting with 'Walking On Sunshine'- enter not impressed face here, when she has such a back catalogue. Finally we entered the hits and Dolly did not stop. Dolly is a comedian to boot, many stories about her family days and how she progressed as a singer and a few jokes between songs and two hours later we all came to really like a lady who has been gracing the music scene for over forty years. A Tennessee spirit, one of ten children, who has somehow managed to pass Australia shores for 25 years, finally came our way and through 'My Tennesse Mountain Home', 'Nine To Five' and 'Little Sparrow' she soaked up the applause and brought out the religious side to her life. Despite rumors I couldn't see any evidence of lip synching, and she held her voice strong throughout the show with only snippets of catching her breath. Dolly plays banjo, flute, saxaphone, guitar, autoharp and piano - what a woman! An encore and lastly 'I Will Always Love You' sent us on our way home.

Nick Cave Tribute - Straight To You

Band: Nick Cave Tribute

Venue: The Forum Theatre, Melbourne

Date: 12/11/2011

Reviewed By: espylyn

As a Nick Cave fan, writing about a tribute show on one of my favourite artists could be hard or easy. Do I compare the musicians to Nick or do I draw on their strengths and talents in performing the songs or do I try to feel I’m hearing the songs for the first time? I think the middle suggestion is best. I can’t compare anyone to one of our national treasures who has brought us the songs and i don’t think there is any way I can pretend I’ve never heard the songs before! All artists tonight have been influenced by Cave in their own rich and developing ways over the past 35 years! If you haven’t heard of Nick Cave then get your head out of the sand and do yourself a favour. Tonight we are graced with some amazing talent, new and old, and each delves into each Cave song with their own essence and beauty.

A packed venue tonight at The Forum Theatre as I make my way near the front and see chandeliers above stage and a rich red glow on the stage. The Triple J boys welcome us all to Part I of the night, then band enter - Kram (Spiderbait) is last to walk to his drum kit and straight into Red Right Hand, a quieter version, yet a version with impact . Bertie Blackman and Muscles continue with Do You Love Me which has great atmosphere and takes the song for a ride with fabulous keyboard action. Muscles takes on Let Love In which I didn’t fancy that much, because there was just no oomph for me. Lie Down Here & Be My Girl unleashes Abbe May with guitar in tow and she takes the song and licks into it with guitar solos and lashings of expression.

Alex Burnett (Sparkadia) is a tremendous asset tonight, suited to the style of Cave music; he takes on Shivers and does a great version of the famous tune. Alex incites Lani Lane onstage for Where The Wild Roses Grow which is aptly sung. The two weave on stage and almost act out the song. Johnny MacKay (Children Collide) puts sparks into Nick The Stripper (I can’t help but wonder if Cave is invoking him!), whilst Lani Lane takes on the trombone for this song. Johnny loses control of the microphone but the way he embraced the song, it’s no wonder and it just proved how much of himself he was putting into the song. Johnny then heads into People, Just Ain’t No Good.

Lisa Mitchell cruises into Ship Song and this is credibly sung, nothing but her voice and the sound of piano accordion to float around the room. Jake Stone from Blue Juice creeps on stage and says “what’s up c***s and most of the crowd laughs whilst he sways into The Weeping Song – a dub version, that somehow fitted. Jake was very tame compared to his normal antics on stage.

Urthboy was rather different and I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy hearing Cave in hip hop style, and the songO’Children was sung in a way I don’t think Cave would ever thought possible. It was sung handsomely and I enjoyed it better that the original. Tim Rogers (again, I feel he was invoked by Cave), bounced into From Her To Eternity, all over the stage would be sweat from Tim. After a wardrobe malfunction, which left us all seeing his pants partly fall down, but this didn’t stop Tim, screaming the song to the crowd, falling to his knees and overall totally immersing himself into the song, the way Cave does.

Part II takes us on another path of Cave delights. Abbe May sings Depth Charge Ethel and Adalita grooves into Straight To You followed by Lisa Mitchell crooning through Into My Arms and ending by dancing with Jake Stone. The girls do Cave justice and now the boys take stage – Paul Kelly strides on stage to crowd applause and heads into Nobody’s Baby Now which features those prominent keys again, fantastic. The song Lament brings Spanish dancing to the stage, before we are taken into a rap version of Stagger Lee by Urthboy, I love the original of this song and I feel this was a pretty good version of the song and the band were amazing here.

Stagger Lee was staged out with Lani and Alex taking part in the acting out the song. Bertie hops back on stage saying ‘that is a hard act to follow’ and she launches into The Mercy Seat which she takes on like a bull in a china shop. Kram sings Henry Lee and this version pulled elements of his cheekiness with the flow of the song and joined both together to be a hit.
For the finale, all artists joins stage and head into Jack The Ripper, There She Goes My Beautiful World and lastly (one of my favourites), Papa Won’t Leave You Henry.

as seen at www.theaureview.com.au

Glasvegas + Belles Will Ring -Hi-Fi Bar and Ballroom

Band: Glasvegas + Belles Will Ring

Venue: Hi-Fi Bar and Ballroom

Date: 25th July 2011

Reviewed By: Espylyn

It’s a wintery night out as I swish through the puddles and quickly walk to the Hi-Fi Bar and Ballroom and on entrance a dull hum greets me, the first song has started and I delve through the crowd to get closer. My ears prick up at the harmonies of the band – an essence kinda like the Dandy Warhols – that creates the music of then with the sounds of now. A toxic blend which I allow to soak into my eardrum and take me away to a desert island where the flowing sounds of Belles Will Ring, will stay with me forevermore. A happy sound, combined with edginess and mixed with instruments like Tambourine, flute and harmonica – all three played by Lauren Crew (as well as keys and vocals). The rest of the band, Liam, Joe and Aiden, take me on a pleasant road through songs like The Coldest Heart and the finale – Come North With Me Baby, Wow which ends with a lonely trumpet echoing through the room. Their debut album Crystal Theatre was released in May this year and stands out to critics alike.

A long break and the Scottish Indie Rock band that is Glasvegas enters stage and takes the crowd on a roller coaster ride tonight. A solid crowd supports the band and gives the band plenty to be excited about. With Splendour In The Grass only days away it seems fitting most of us head to the ‘side shows’ to witness the music which we are unable to be a part of up north, we get to witness the shows here instead, in wintery Melbourne.

Anticipations looms around the room and the four piece band take stand and head into The World Is Yours. Jonna Löfgren on drums stands during the set, and boy does she hit those drums like they are a deadly animal. James Allen, wearing the lighter colour clothes tonight, gives the band the voice that it needs – I have no idea what he is singing about most of the time, but that somehow works in the bands favour. James pulls his vocals to the limit and the melodies suit the band whilst the other band members, Paul Donoghue and Rab Allen look like bookends or bouncers on either side of James – dressed similar with their hair a punk style and together they lick the guitar riffs with plenty of oomph and talent. It’s My Own Cheating Heart That Makes Me Cry has James sitting down with microphone out into the audience as the entire crowd sings the song and the sound of the audience is louder than his vocals, so he may as well sit and take it all in!

At times I’m reminded of an eighties sound, and mixed with a great light show tonight and one ultra cool microphone cord – one that illuminated green and white at times, we are given a tip top set. Geraldine is full of colour and guitar, Ice Cream Van brings on that Britpop sound and Go Square Go receives thunderous applause. A short set and then encore- S.A.D Light is played and then Lots Sometimes draws the night to a close....

Review posted on www.theaureview.com.au

Glasvegas + Belles Will Ring -Hi-Fi Bar and Ballroom

Band: Glasvegas with support from Belles Will Ring

Venue: Hi Fi Bar and Ballroom

Date: 25th July 2011

Reviewed By: Espylyn

It’s a wintery night out as I swish through the puddles and quickly walk to the Hi-Fi Bar and Ballroom and on entrance a dull hum greets me, the first song has started and I delve through the crowd to get closer. My ears prick up at the harmonies of the band – an essence kinda like the Dandy Warhols – that creates the music of then with the sounds of now. A toxic blend which I allow to soak into my eardrum and take me away to a desert island where the flowing sounds of Belles Will Ring, will stay with me forevermore. A happy sound, combined with edginess and mixed with instruments like Tambourine, flute and harmonica – all three played by Lauren Crew (as well as keys and vocals). The rest of the band, Liam, Joe and Aiden, take me on a pleasant road through songs like The Coldest Heart and the finale – Come North With Me Baby, Wow which ends with a lonely trumpet echoing through the room. Their debut album Crystal Theatre was released in May this year and stands out to critics alike.

A long break and the Scottish Indie Rock band that is Glasvegas enters stage and takes the crowd on a roller coaster ride tonight. A solid crowd supports the band and gives the band plenty to be excited about. With Splendour In The Grass only days away it seems fitting most of us head to the ‘side shows’ to witness the music which we are unable to be a part of up north, we get to witness the shows here instead, in wintery Melbourne.

Anticipations looms around the room and the four piece band take stand and head into The World Is Yours. Jonna Löfgren on drums stands during the set, and boy does she hit those drums like they are a deadly animal. James Allen, wearing the lighter colour clothes tonight, gives the band the voice that it needs – I have no idea what he is singing about most of the time, but that somehow works in the bands favour. James pulls his vocals to the limit and the melodies suit the band whilst the other band members, Paul Donoghue and Rab Allen look like bookends or bouncers on either side of James – dressed similar with their hair a punk style and together they lick the guitar riffs with plenty of oomph and talent. It’s My Own Cheating Heart That Makes Me Cry has James sitting down with microphone out into the audience as the entire crowd sings the song and the sound of the audience is louder than his vocals, so he may as well sit and take it all in!

At times I’m reminded of an eighties sound, and mixed with a great light show tonight and one ultra cool microphone cord – one that illuminated green and white at times, we are given a tip top set. Geraldine is full of colour and guitar, Ice Cream Van brings on that Britpop sound and Go Square Go receives thunderous applause. A short set and then encore- S.A.D Light is played and then Lots Sometimes draws the night to a close....

Review posted on www.theaureview.com.au

Glasvegas + Belles Will Ring -Hi-Fi Bar and Ballroom

Band: Glasvegas with support from Belles Will Ring

Venue: Hi Fi Bar

Date: 25th July 2011

Reviewed By: Espylyn

It’s a wintery night out as I swish through the puddles and quickly walk to the Hi-Fi Bar and Ballroom and on entrance a dull hum greets me, the first song has started and I delve through the crowd to get closer. My ears prick up at the harmonies of the band – an essence kinda like the Dandy Warhols – that creates the music of then with the sounds of now. A toxic blend which I allow to soak into my eardrum and take me away to a desert island where the flowing sounds of Belles Will Ring, will stay with me forevermore. A happy sound, combined with edginess and mixed with instruments like Tambourine, flute and harmonica – all three played by Lauren Crew (as well as keys and vocals). The rest of the band, Liam, Joe and Aiden, take me on a pleasant road through songs like The Coldest Heart and the finale – Come North With Me Baby, Wow which ends with a lonely trumpet echoing through the room. Their debut album Crystal Theatre was released in May this year and stands out to critics alike.

A long break and the Scottish Indie Rock band that is Glasvegas enters stage and takes the crowd on a roller coaster ride tonight. A solid crowd supports the band and gives the band plenty to be excited about. With Splendour In The Grass only days away it seems fitting most of us head to the ‘side shows’ to witness the music which we are unable to be a part of up north, we get to witness the shows here instead, in wintery Melbourne.

Anticipations looms around the room and the four piece band take stand and head into The World Is Yours. Jonna Löfgren on drums stands during the set, and boy does she hit those drums like they are a deadly animal. James Allen, wearing the lighter colour clothes tonight, gives the band the voice that it needs – I have no idea what he is singing about most of the time, but that somehow works in the bands favour. James pulls his vocals to the limit and the melodies suit the band whilst the other band members, Paul Donoghue and Rab Allen look like bookends or bouncers on either side of James – dressed similar with their hair a punk style and together they lick the guitar riffs with plenty of oomph and talent. It’s My Own Cheating Heart That Makes Me Cry has James sitting down with microphone out into the audience as the entire crowd sings the song and the sound of the audience is louder than his vocals, so he may as well sit and take it all in!

At times I’m reminded of an eighties sound, and mixed with a great light show tonight and one ultra cool microphone cord – one that illuminated green and white at times, we are given a tip top set. Geraldine is full of colour and guitar, Ice Cream Van brings on that Britpop sound and Go Square Go receives thunderous applause. A short set and then encore- S.A.D Light is played and then Lots Sometimes draws the night to a close....

Review posted on www.theaureview.com.au

Gun Street Girls with Matt Sonic & The High Times

Band: Gun Street Girls with Matt Sonic & The High Times

Venue: The East Brunswick Club

Date: 20th May 2011

Reviewed By: Espylyn

Tonight I came out to the double headline act of Gun Street Girls and Matt Sonic and The High Times. GSG are straight off the back of their national support tour with the USA’s The Hold Steady and Matt Sonic and Co are straight off the back of their USA tour and are about to record their second album.

The night started with the Melbourne band, Wicked City, who had a loud vibe and it was so loud I think my ears bled! Well not quite, but due to lack of people in the room, they could be feeling the same thing. Wicked City is a three piece rock outfit from Melbourne and their sound is loud!

Matt Sonic and The High Times were before us with 3 guitars and drums and they licked the stage with their tunes that are reminiscent of the 80’s. Hair-do’s, opened shirts and riffs that took me back in time. Matt has a look like Joe Elliot of Def Leppard, and he unleashed a few guitar hooks whilst the female bass player unleased a few curly riffs to the punters. Although they are very accomplished musicians, the vocals were a tad scratchy. The East, from my experience, has failed me a few times now for decent sound, which could explain the lack of substance here tonight. When Matt did the talking songs, the sound was much catchier. By now, the crowd started filling up and I even spotted Scott Owen of The Living End lurking in the corner. High rolling pumping guitar hero action and they ended their set with ‘Dirty, Slow Moon’ where Matt sings “Ran into Devil/Sky turned black” and the show ended with drums and thumping riffs.

Dave entered stage with much gusto and tried to crank up the lull in the crowd. I don’t think they wanted to be pepped up tonight, they seemed quite happy with beer in one hand, and toe’s tapping with big smiles on their faces. I could see how this would be annoying to the band. The boys went straight into the song ‘How I Roll’ (off their debut CD) which sounded distorted in the venue and ‘Tell It Like It Is’ wasn’t sounding all that much better (off their latest CD, Adult Loose). I’m not sure if I got used to the sound but the night definitely got better. Dave gets people to move closer and when they do he realised he is about to sing a slow number so he decides to chuck that idea and head to a rockier new number which delves into a raw, dirty quenching sound. ‘The Mission’ is a catchy tune, and with sweat dripping down their faces we are introduced to the rest of the band who are Callum John Barter on drums and Dave Butterworth on bass. Callum seems to love what he is doing, going off with oomph yet managing many smiles and laughter. Dave Butterworth sings a few new songs tonight which give us a feel for the newer style songs off the latest album, and these are a rocking relief, I say relief as sometimes band with multiple singers can lose their appeal. Next we are taken straight into ‘Millennium Man’ and ‘One Slip Away’ off the debut album and ‘Disappointing Friend’ from Adult Loose, the newie. There is definitely an odd mood tonight, but it’s definitely not a bad one, I look around and most people are in the age bracket of 35-45 (including me) and I wonder if we are getting to an age where we have been gigging for years and at midnight, we are all wishing we are home in our cosy homes. But, I’m not complaining as the boys earned their money tonight, they looked like they were having fun and when they launched into “Borderline’ it produced screaming guitar and the punters rocked about to it.

Not long afterwards few punters did leave and those who stayed saw Matt Sonic and Gun Street Girls belt out some covers which include ‘Gimme Shelter’ and ‘Foxy Lady’ and the later saw Dave on bass carry some high notes to the end!

INXS Live Review from Day On The Green

Band: INXS with support from Baby Animals, Train and Sean Kelly

Venue: Rochford Winery for Day On The Green

Date: 6th February 2011

Reviewed By: Espylyn

After much debate and chatter about the weather the day promised some sun and gave us some cloud as well. This didn't deter the thousands who turned up at Rochford Winery to witness INXS with support from Baby Animals, Train and Sean Kelly (from The Models) at the Day On The Green habitat.

I missed most of Sean Kelly - I did manage to hear Out Of Mind, Out Of Sight which took me back to grade 6 and us girls on one side of the room and the boys on the other, ahh such fond memories. Up next is Baby Animals and we all welcomed them back into our hearts. Singer Suze DeMarchi has been living in the US and is back in Australia with her family to give the kids an Aussie upbringing, hence why all the comeback Baby Animals shows. Naturally all their top songs were sung and the band rocked like they'd never left gigging.

I didn't see Train so lets move onto the main act of the night, INXS. All band members except singer JD Fortune, came out and gave us a quirky start with just percussion which was kinda interesting, they were all dressed in suits which didn't really suit the band. Then out came JD dressed in suit and top hat (mmm...top hat) and off with a bang they went. Suicide Blonde opened the night and up the punters yelled and screamed. It was kinda cool to witness a band that was so big with its original singer still retain popularity with the punters and JD. I however, felt like I was watching a cover band to a small degree, but in saying that, the band playing like they were on fire and JD is ever the front man. Lets not get into comparisons and focus on the INXS of now. Songs from the album Switch include Dirty Vegas and Afterglow and the band played music that plummeted the sky and almost made the moon come down to check them out. Older songs were more of a hit, Devil Inside, Bitter Tears, Mystify and Original Sin held the crowd throughout the two hour set.

Garry Beers held onto that bass and brought some major riffs to the set whilst Andrew, Tim and Jon Farris held the band together with Kirk Pengilly who took to front of stage lapping up the luxury of a sold out crowd who were singing along and almost bowing to their hero's who still gel the band together.

The rain held back and the moon shone bright tonight as it looked upon many drunken sods dancing and screaming for a band that may not shine as brightly as it once did, but a band that will shine forever more.

Sia and the Magic Cardboard Ride

Band: Sia with support from The Holidays

Venue: Palais Theatre

Date: 1st February 2011

Reviewed By: Espylyn

A hot and sweaty night preceded an outing at the Palais Theatre before a cool change blessed us, but I was not with too much hesitation in getting to the theatre because I was interested in seeing the flamboyant Sia in action in a large theatre and I was therefore expectation-less in how the night will unfold having not seen a solo show from her before.

The Holidays opened the show and gave us a bright and rocking set. A four piece Sydney band that showed a lot of front and a sound which was...well, a bit of everything (that is good) really. The crowd had pretty much filled up to watch the band and the age group was a little bit of older and a lot of younger audience.

Once the support finished a lot of people left to no doubt claim some fresh air and they flounced back about five minutes before Sia was to start and start she did in a rather eclectic ensemble that consisted of a large piece of cardboard which was painted black and strapped to her body (that was the similar size to her) and Sia was in all black, including painted skin, and a pink tu-tu. Yes, rather amusing and a rather fitting tribute to the show for the night. The stage was colourful with coloured lines aplenty all over the instruments, back drop and even the band wore clothing with coloured stripes. I had to give Sia points for creativity.

Adelaide's enchanting daughter didn't give in to the warm weather tonight, she provided flare, chatter and humour all night and a voice that didn't falter. Sia didn't leave her cardboard ensemble yet continued to sing with it strapped to her body for song after song. At one point she asked punters to yell out a few words to which she put together in a song much to the delight of those whose words were chosen (love, seven, spaghetti). The youthful crowd managed to stay in their seats for the night but when Clap Your Hands was sung it proved too much for a few and up they were. This song gave up the cardboard and in its place was fairy wings with a bubble machine on both sides and a fan behind her so the bubbles headed toward the punters, a rather effective result.

Sia thanked many people for being there tonight and she proved to be a singer that will have longevity in a field that can be so fought over and won by too few.

Hoodoo Gurus take the Break at sold out Corner Gig

Band: Hoodoo Gurus with The Break

Venue: The Corner Hotel, Melbourne

Date: 17th December 2010

Reviewed By: Danelle Lee

The Break was a great draw for the night with three of its members being from the Oils, Rob Hirst: drums, Martin Rotsey: guitar and Jim Moginie on guitar and Theremin. Lead singer Brian Ritchie is from the Violent Femmes and just to add to the gold they occasionally brought on Jack Howard: trumpet from Hunters and Collectors. Throughout the set we were treated to black and white projections onto the back wall of massive breaks; 70’s beach scenes showcasing girls in bikinis and all occasionally interspersed with filmic scenes such as ‘The Monster from the Black Lagoon’. This heady mix created the perfect environment for The Break’s heady psychedelic surfer music.

We were eased into the set with Cylinders and Five Rocks which was when we really got our first taste of the eerie and seductive charms of Moginie on the Theremin evoking the full sonic force of The Break. It was nice to hear the band play a few Midnight Oil songs like Eye Contact and Wedding Cake Island. Highlights were, Hirst’s drum solo during Phobos Grunt and a classic cover of Miserlou.

To get a real sense of what this sold out gig for Hoodoo Gurus was like, I have to set the scene. The Hoodoo Gurus have been around for three decades and are a part of Australia’s iconic music history. In that time the band have racked up a fair following of all ages from; the sweaty bogan boys in front of me, bouncing and falling over themselves planting fat sloppy kisses of bro lust on each other to the two silver foxes bobbing and singing along behind me.

Hoodoos opened the set with the heavy rifts and hard base beats of What’s in it for me from their new album Purity of Essence. This launched the band into a set that did not disappoint old and new fans alike playing a cross section of songs that covered three decades and nine studio albums. After a nearly six year album hiatus, Dave Faulkner and Brad Shepherd’s recognisable harmonies and vocals and Brad Kingsmill’s solid drum beats lifted the crowd into a moshpit frenzy, especially with old favourites like Come Anytime, What’s My Scene and Axe Grinder. California was a bit of a let down and was very close to the end of the set and I’m not sure if Faulkner’s faux walk off stage before the encore contributed to this.

However, like the seasoned professionals they are, they recovered quickly and what ensued was a powerful Crackin Up - the first song on their new album and a dramatic Wow- Like Wipe-out which was all tied together with confetti guns. So in true Aussie style the concert finished with one of the bogan boys in front picking a handful of confetti out of my friend's ample bosom.

as seen at www.thedwarf.com.au

Big Guns Korn and Kiwi Rockers Shihad

Band: Korn supported by Shihad

Venue: Festering Hall

Date: 5th December 2010

Reviewed By: Espylyn

Shihad has just started as I entered the venue and they proved they have the guts and glory to fully rock out as a support act just as much as when they are the main act. Frontman Johnny Toogood proves time and time again he is the front man guru. Shihad powers out old hits and newbies to the punters who lap up the bands antics and bounce for the Kiwi rockers.

Korn enter stage amongst smoke and when the infamous microphone stand is uncovered the crowd go ballistic (ballistic is actually too weak a word), and the band members leap into each song with so much love and passion that we all follow suit.

I could feel the pent up energy before the band started and it wasn't long before guys in the crowd had shirts off and were pushing the rest of the crowd into mayhem. Korn played to the crowds energy and got them bouncing so much I wondered if the floor could hold such a force.

Jonathon Davies is the exotic front man with his crazy dancing, dreadlocks jumping all over the place showing us that Korn are here to stay and his vocals bring us the passion and filth Korn fans need. Fieldy slaps that bass and surrenders to that twangy bass sound that the band is renowned for, whilst Munky is the most interesting in appearance displaying a mask whilst sticking his tongue for the crowd as he often does whilst Ray Luzier hits the AMAZING looking drum kit like a zombie who has just been told he's about to get some brains for dinner, my goodness is that one sexy mutherfucking drumkit.

Korn played hit upon hit including Somebody Someone, Falling Away From Me, Blind, Shoots and Ladders, Freak On A Leash and new tunes Oildale 'Leave Me Alone' and Let The Guilt Go. Fans erupted with pent up angst and singing through every song like I haven't seen for a long time. A piano crept into the start of a few song but I wasn't sure this was really necessary to the performance. Last song of the night was Got The Life.

This gig has been my personal favourite Korn gig which I feel is due to the smaller venue with crazy awesome loving Korn fans.I left the show with the biggest smile on my face and even though it was humid in festering hall and my feet hurt, I didn't want the show to stop - boo to curfews!

Blondie and The Pretenders

Band: Blondie, The Pretenders

Venue: Palais Theatre and A Day On The Green

Date: 2nd & 4th December

Reviewed By: Espylyn

I couldn't decide which show to review so I thought I'd kind of sum them both up, but lets make two things clear, the DOTG show was the better and wearing homy ped on stage isn't cool when you're a rock queen. Okay, so now that that is out there where do I begin.

Adalita was the support but I didn't really catch either of her shows but I'm kinda glad I didn't as I only heard bad reviews, I wasn't sure how that could be possible for a rock chick like Adalita so lets not touch that part of the review and lets move on to the two main acts.

The Pretenders showed us they still have got it, well, Chrissie Hynde showed us that at the age of 59 and with years of yoga behind you, we can all be doing high kicks and groovy dance moves without being breathless. The band performed many hits and barely any misses in a set that left us all wanting more of Hynde and crew. Hynde has been the only constant member of The Pretenders and this band has had major influence for the music world since the humble beginnings. Kudos to the band for showing us how to rock out.

Next up at the Palais Theatre is a fine old band, and a 65 year young Debbie Harris took charge of the stage with charm and style allowing the erupting fans to look in envy at her energy and beautiful demeanor and I'm sure all females were hoping that they'd act that young when they hit her age (or Hynde's). Lots of instrument solos where Harry would kind of dance side of stage and and only a few people in the audience were dancing throughout the set which was weird. Harry did get the punters up and dancing towards the end. A plethora of music from the old songs and the new songs. DOTG was the better of the gigs for Blondie, the crowd were up and dancing from woe to go and getting into the day with much more enthusiasm but naturally with alcohol being involved, that will always play a large contender with how the crowd is going to react. Both gigs had the same songs, Call Me in both shows was the failure, I thought Harry had lost the plot as the song seemed to fall in a heap with no oomph and no sign of Harry looking like she was with us. But fear not, every other song was amazing, Heart of Glass to Rapture, Atomic War, One Way and Hanging on the Telephone. Harry came out wearing a skirt but soon ripped it off to reveal short shorts with her homy ped style shoes! Fabulous legs I must add. Chris Stein, Clem Burke, Jimmi Destri and co all presented themselves with pure indulgence and made the show a fantastic experience.

Very happy to say I've seen some legend rock bands in different venues, and thankfully the Melbourne weather held off to give us a sunny day for the green.

Bendigo and Ballarat and Powderfinger = mudfest

Band: Powderfinger with support from Jet and Paul Dempsey

Venue: Bendigo and Ballarat Big Top

Date: 15th and 16th October

Reviewed By: Espylyn

Mud, a chance of rain and uber cold temperatures didn't hold off the fans of Powderfinger in either town of Ballarat and Bendigo. A big top tent welcomed us into its lair and into the warmer area underneath we flourish, our gumboots displaying the proud moments of sloshing through the mud without falling in it, and as I head to the front I am amazed at the room available to watch the show. Both nights it seems the punters prefer to stay behind the half way mark and drink, this is because the front section is a no drinking zone with a few punters under ten years of age. Suited me as drinking would mean me clambering through the mud to the port-a-loo's in the cold so the drinking thought went out the head quickly and the trying to get a tad closer was looking good. Once position I watched the rock band that is Jet, ( I missed Dempsey both nights), and Jet proved they are here to stay with many of us dancing to Jet and singing along to the many hits the band have unleashed. Nic's vocal scream almost sends shivers up the spine- how many singers can produce a scream like he does, awesome! Playing all the old and new hits with applause a-plenty and then we all got ready and in position to witness the almighty boys from Powderfinger.

The band materialize and slowly into Love Your Way before the tempo increases and the full sound takes us all from cruisy to utter mayhem. Bernard Fanning showing us why he is the front-man, owing the microphone and getting the punters singing and clapping and fully engaging throughout the show. Darren Middleton and Ian Haug unleash their inner guts putting all the work into the riffs and exploding into stances and even jumping up on the speakers. John Collins produces the back beat bass riffs and together with Jon Coghill who ties the band together on drums.

Screens behind the band display various images as songs are sung, Burn Your Name, Sunsets and Lost and Running all have various displays whether it be lanterns, sunsets or the like. Laser's shoot out over the crowd and throughout the show it's lights, lasers and images.

Other songs include Sail The Wildest Stretch, Thrillology, Already Gone and then the boys disappear for about five minutes and they position themselves onto the smaller stage in the middle of the Big Top and unleash the tunes Like A Dog and Stumblin' and I almost get the vibe they enjoy playing a small stage again. Bernard can walk around the entire stage and he plays to all of fans on each side, throwing the microphone stand around and strutting his stance. Jon finishes the set with a milking drum solo blended with all guitars then back to the main stage we look as Bernard sings Happiness until the rest of the band are back.

Songs to complete the night include Passenger, Capoicity, Pick You Up, On My Mind and These Days. There was a small difference in song list with each show, but only minor. My Kind Of Scene was sung in Bendigo only.

Bernard likes to have his own names for each town, Bendigoingoff and Ballarussian's and his chuckle after first mentioning these names makes me wonder what other names he has given towns along the way.

Unfortunately the night has to end, out into the mud we head, many punters with no shoes and some covered in mud from the nights festivities, girls singing the songs and even plenty of skipping takes place.

It may be ten years before we see this band again, we can only hope that will happen.

Washington Pleases Five Times

Band: Washington

Venue: The Corner Hotel

Date: 22/09/2010

Reviewed By: Espylyn

The Corner Hotel tonight is graced with screens side of stage and plenty of attitude from Miss Washington. Wicked lights look down upon the stage and I can't help but think they need to remain with the pub as they look great and provide that 'added' atmosphere.

Five sold out shows makes one have big expectations on an artist and the expectations were met. A live voice to make most girls crumble, an attitude to make the nerds squeak and plenty of stage zest blended with the right amount of nervousness.

1997 started the set and other songs in the night include Plastic Bag (newbie - dedicated to Kerrie-Ann), I Hate You ( a song with feeling we're told), Underground (her Will made into a song for when she is gone) and Five and Ten which proved almost too much for Washington when Tim Rogers came and sung it with her - changing the lyrics to aptly applause her album taking on gold sales - Washington hung onto Tim and this got the audience laughing.

I Believe You Liar and Clementine were the other highlights. Washington takes no survivors and with a mature attitude to boot and after five sold out shows, she'll be taking on a bigger venue next time and all of us who went to this smaller shows can look back and smile.

Note : apologies for delay in posting, blame computer issues.

Root! final steamy show at Yah Yahs

Band: Root! with support from The Rhetorics
Venue: Yah Yahs
Date: 20th August 2010
Reviewed By: Espylyn

A sold out show allowed the youthful band The Rhetorics to unleash some eager and energetic rock, pop and punk sound to the punters at Yah Yahs. A steady crowd watched on with many heading out for a smoke into the cold night to then come back and take position to witness an interesting band commit some fabulous guitar action and show us an image which suits the boys and I must admit, a style of music that grew on me.
Not only a sold out show but sold out merchandise for Root! Tee-shirts were displayed all around and the punters heckled Root! Root! in absolute dog style vocals and typical fashion until the band crept panther-like through the crowd and onto stage. Tonight’s performance would be the last for the band as they hang up their sound and will call it a day amidst reports that DC will fly solo for a while.
An introduction begins called Root! tapes and for many moments we are laughing to the one liners and songs which have been changed to suit a more Root! style of theme. Smoke bellows and laughter prevails, whilst the cowboys hats are ready on stage. Not as many cowboy hats in the audience which is a surprise but the crowd don’t disappoint tonight with their heckling, moshing and singing along to the songs of Root!

DC , the effervescent front man, welcomes the Greatest Rock N Roll Band and the song Uncle Vom Vom starts the set and is followed with Orange People, Get Up Yourself and Famous For Being Famous and the band prowled the stage as though this wasn’t their last show but their first. Mad drums, electric guitar and great melodies are what Root! have always been and listening to the lyrics as their tongue in cheek riddles are set to music really does work.

Joe Bloggs Blogg brings on some heckling and DC almost looks as though he’s had enough – a hot interior makes a few of us move closer to the door which is full of steam and when the security opens the door, it’s a wonderful feeling to feel that cold night air. Root! continue with Shazza and Michelle which bleats out guitar and drum grooves and finally DC is out amongst the crowd as he does best. I Wish I Was Tex Perkins is sung whilst hopping along the bar and is quickly followed by Caroline Springs.

Encore doesn’t really happen as there really isn’t anywhere for the band to go to so they continue their final show to the more than full house with bringing bongo’s on stage and we witness Doug Lee Root! singing Run Like The Wind – a Christopher Cross cover, and the song is backed up by Henri and Steve Root! I’m left wondering if DC will come back and he does for another couple of songs – I’ll Get My Kicks When I’m 66 and Hokey Pokey and then the band that was, isn’t any more. The guttural howls of the punters saying Root! Root! follow me home.

as seen on www.thedwarf.com.au

Midlake amaze punters with their humble talent

Band: Midlake with support from Big Scary
Venue: Prince Of Wales
Date: 2nd August 2010
Reviewed By: Espylyn

Big Scary are an interesting yet appropriate support for Midlake and it’s always nice to see Melbourne bands as supports for internationalist acts. A duet combining of Tom who sings and plays guitar and keys and Jo who plays drums, guitar, shaker and sings and together they perform folk garage rock tunes. Low melodics initially circulate the room tonight and entice all the punters slowly until Tom and Jo changes instruments toward the end of their set and the music gains momentum and heightens our senses with bellowing rock and classy keys combined with drum beats.

Midlake are a band that I find hard to review as you really need to see them to take it their sound properly, as their music reflects their albums and they actually sound better live having mastered a format which suits them.
Midlake build up their initial presence with some rock instrumental action before delving into the tune Winter Dies (from the latest album The Courage of Others) - Tim Smith’s (songwriter) vocals are amazing live and capture the music first class.
Midlake are a seven piece band from Texas and with five guitars on stage at any given time and triple the flutes so it’s a layered and textured sound that works. A green shimmery drum kit almost looks out of sorts in amongst the hippy style surrounds that makes me feel I’m living in the 1970’s.
Its these five guitars that pelt out the layers of music as the band head into Children Of The Grounds, a hearty song with majestic awareness and then they show off the three flutes for Young Bride which is off their album titled The Trials of Van Occupanther and following is another tune from the same album aptly titled Van Occupanther, the punters yelp with excitement here! The Courage Of Others unleashes a big instrumental piece with Max Townsley paving the path on guitar and McKenzie Smith pumping away on drums.

Call Of Nature, Roscoe and Fortune all take us into other worlds whilst Head Home begins with more flutes and shakers and the boys take to stage like they belong there. Eric Pulido is the main man talking to the crowd throughout the night and enjoying the heckling he receives. The inevitable encore hits us but it’s not long before they’re back and finishing off the set with Bandits and Branches. Although they seem to have left their quieter tunes to the end, it’s their songs off The Courage of Others that I find the most stunning.
A dazzling set, one which is hard to review and capture just how fascinating they boys are to watch as well as trying to describe the screams and clapping the audience produces which almost deafens me but the boys smile at such an applause. Humble to the end.

as seen on www.thedwarf.com.au

The Night Porter filled us with Mark Lanegan songs

Band: Mark Lanegan
Venue: The Corner Hotel
Date: 7th July 2010
Reviewed By: Espylyn

Mark Lanegan, do I even need to say anymore. If you haven’t heard of him then I feel pity for you. He came with that voice and sang song after song without so much of a spoken peep to the audience, but who cares, its Mark Lanegan. His beady eyes -just opening at times, sweat dripping, drinking gravel after each song and backed up by an amazing guitar playing and backing vox, Dave Rosser.

Kicking off the set with When Your Number Isn't Up was an opener and a half. I would say the entire sold out crowd gulped and gawked at Lanegan with each word he sung. The next hour and a bit was filled with luscious acoustic tunes, carefully sung as though he was remembering each journey behind the lyrics.

Dimples glowing in his cheeks, music roaring in our ears, the dull red glow of the corner lights all took us to another place and when it was over it was time to come back to earth and for the chill in our bones to subside.

A humble man who thanked us for coming and we say “come back soon” to the man that is Mark Lanegan.