My Top 5 Records On High Rotation 08

Children Collide – The Long Now – Most Anticipated.

I can say this was my most anticipated of 2008 easily.
When these lads signed up with Universal (home to other Aussie acts such as Grinspoon and Jet) I was curious to how the production giants would portray these musical rogues from the suburbs of Melbourne.
Children Collide aren’t some hot new thing from the fluro gen, nor are they thrusting through the airwaves, they’re better known to those Triple J fans and punters were more likely to see them doing the duties of support acts over the last few years.
In saying that, those shows and solid Triple J support has landed the lads the majority of their fan base.

Children Collide have an obscure eastern European premise that no one has proven to compare right now and I was impressed that there was no image sell out which is usually associated with hooking up with mega record labels.

It’s basically a polished EP but I still love it.

Sparkadia – Postcards – Most Surprising

These kids literally came out of nowhere. I had never heard of them, and caught them sneaking into a free Dappled Show which had reached capacity. Literally, this record rocks.
Live, recorded the songs are just good, no real cliché hooks or lame lyrics just a solid album. Great flow. Great band.

The Subways – All Or Nothing – Most Predictable Sam Choice

There isn’t much you could do to tear me away from this band. They can break-up get engaged, get loose and get lyrical and it’s all fucking gold. I just love that U.K London rock sound, kind of obvious riffs but this is an angrier offering and I just like it better that way, this one would be particular to taste I’d say.

The Kills – Midnight Boom – Most likely to not make a follow up but get it while it’s hot!

New band and new Kate Moss beau, these kids from the U.K have it going on with this kind of easy pop edgy sounds. I’m always one for male/female acts and intertwining vocals and the record is just really fun. Great variety of upbeat tracks and some more mellow like ‘Black Balloon’. For the kids who know the English do it better.

British India – Thieves – Second Most Predictable Choice

Say what you want about these Melbourne kids, they make a great record in little time. There are a few fillers in there but ‘Thieves’ provides a deeper look into Melia’s and Wilson’s musical partnership and offers more hits than Triple J can throw a female vote at.

Soko @ Oxford Arts

In a music world jam-packed with Internet sensations and overnight fame fare for fifteen year olds, it was no surprised when the masses took to a cute little French girl with gutter mouth and an adorable accent with an interesting trademark of ‘frenglish’ if you will.

Soko set the Internet and airwaves alight with her single ‘I’ll Kill Her’ late in 2007. The song detailing her desire to kill the girl who caught a love interests eyes over her and projects their future together in a ‘what would have been’ scenario, all ending in threats.

The first time I heard her it was love and after seeing the petite Parisian in person and perform, I can say it’s safe I’ll never love again. Unrequited loves a bitch right?

After a few wines at The Exchange a primarily female crowd filed into the depths of Oxford Arts and awaited patiently throughout the support. Cuthbert and the Night Walkers were amazing but played a little too long for an opener. They kind of sound like early Architecture and Helsinki crossbred with Arcade Fire and B52’s. I dug it.

Anyhow, we waited on for another half hour of sound checks and such and in great anticipation became slightly restless. Alas, at about 10 o’clock the red curtain exposed three keyboards one on which sat a tiny cat lantern, an assortment of acoustic guitars, ukuleles, bass and a miniture drum set. Oh and then emerged a sleepy looking Soko almost out of nowhere!

She’s quite short and dressed in a loose white singlet and her voice is as squeaky and as cute as you imagine when she says hello and declares her jet lag.

Opening with a proclaimed lullaby, I bent down to grab my camera and it’s utterly quiet. You could literally hear me rummaging through my shit; the crowd was entirely engaged in the tiny little voice.

The song came to a holt and the Parisian became alarmed realizing she had not lit her incense and frantically rush around the stage and lit the two sticks stating that “now she could play”.

Soko introduced her entourage of two and set into ‘Happy Hippy Birthday/They Shoot’. The most moving of the performances as she tells the story of hesitation to contact the one you love on their birthday, when they don’t love you. Declaring the man in the song the only man she can love and wrapping up the song in tears. My cold heart literally broke for her.

My favorite song of the night would most likely be ‘I Wanna Look Like A Tiger’ performed in the tiger hat/rug/god knows as pictured above.

The audience interaction was unlike any gig I’d been to before, Soko literally conversing with the crowd and speaking openly to the light and sound guys throughout the performance. After continuously requesting not so much light and eventually no light to which they ignored she finally demanded the light guy “go to the bar and have a beer” to ease the heat on stage. Unfortunately the lights were turned up yet again and inspired my favourite Soko quote of the night “It’s not that I don’t like lights, I just don’t like lights”.

The lights were as unruly as the many drunken clowns in the audience, most making me embarrassed to be Australian (you know the bogan who requests ‘Khe San’ at a French show… no joke.. someone actually asked Soko to play Cold Chisel!). The sound wasn’t much better with serious distortion marring the majority of the show.

After a while the songs start to melt into one another and all bled to be the same about dying alone, being alone and unrequited love, did I mention dying alone?

With no set list the show continued into it’s second hour which provided the crowd pleasing hit ‘I’ll Kill Her’ and my favourite ‘Wet Dreams’ which was performed with a kind overweight man from the audience who seemed quite pleased to stand next to the petite potty mouth as she sung about “bang bang bang in the back of your mothers car”.

I’ve walked out on very few shows in my life but after the French darling realized there was no curfew and could continue playing I wasn’t ready for more due to a painful pair of new shoes and some friendly wine and decided to hit the road with a few other punters.

It will definitely go down as one of my favourite shows ever intimately and I’d definitely see Soko again because the whole time you feel like you’re in this conversation with her about her bizarre life and it’s probably the most enchanting thing.

Favourite Songs In 2008 NOT Released in 2008.

I seem to be particularly impared when it comes to liking music when it's released..I prefer to let it age, mature, let the times change and then and only then will I sit down and listen.. Crazy? always.
And now in no order...

Bigmouth Strikes Again - The Smiths 1986
Kiss off - Violent Femmes 1982
Shakin' all over - Johnny Kidd & The Pirates 1960
Untitled - Interpol 2002
kool thing - Sonic Youth 1990
100% - Sonic Youth 1992
Please Please Pease Let Me Get What I Want - The Smiths 1984
I Don't Blame You - Cat Power 2003
Gravel Pit - Wu Tang Clan 2001
How To Disappear Completely - Radiohead 2000

Bloggers Resolution.

As overrated as they are, everyone has at least one.

One that we honestly believe we will not commit to, but sweeten ourselves with the mere entertainment of thought that we might hold true to it.

I do this every year.
And it's the same, save money, eat less McDonalds, stop cutting my hair on impulse.
I never listen to anyone, let alone myself but in the spirit of self belief I will attempt to commit to some musical resolutions.

Thou shalt listen to Fleet Foxes!
After mounting pressure to do so I've become ignorant and have purposely been avoiding this apparent "amazing band" .. There's too much pressure when you tell me they'll do to me what Arcade Fire did the first time.. Big shoes to fill but Kevin, Ally.. I will, in 09.

Thou shalt seek help for singing Metro Station!
This explains itself. And that's the biggest secret I'll ever tell you..
Apart from the fact I bounce around my bedroom in my underpants.. "shake, shake, shake, skake-eh, shake it!"

Thou shalt listen to more rap music!
I always forget how much I love it and thanks to some slammin' battles with Michelle Abraham at a certain concert back in October, I've rediscovered my love for 90's rap. Ah, bask in the broke poetry.

Thou shalt cease talking about attending The Hopetoun on a Monday night, and do it!
Again, self explanatory.. Lisa, this one is on you to help me through.

And of course, the obvious...

Thou shalt blog more often!
With my weekly contribution at MTV lightened, I should have more time to pleasure your eyes and ears and hopefully make this a better blog.

Well kids, it's been an interesting year but that's not all from me yet..
I will fill you in with some very me top 5's before the year is through but fuck.. make it a rockin' 08 and go out in style.. I know I will.

peace ...x

Top 5 Gigs of 2008!

It's been a fucking good year for live music in my books, I was able to see three of my all time favourite bands, two in which I was sure I never would get the chance..

So when I decided to write this Top 5 I didn't realise how much work I had ahead of me.

I've seen so many shows this year, the biggest acts in the world, to the smallest acts in Sydney and I'm not surprised that the little guys are making my list!

UNO.
ARCADE FIRE - ENMORE THEATRE 23/01/08 - Big Day Out.
Probably the best gig I've ever seen.
Intimate and in the front row I got to witness close up and personal the magic that is Arcade Fire.
No doubt one of my most favourite bands, I was ecstatic when treated to all my favourite tracks.
Opening the show with the illuminating 'Wake Up' and closing with an intense cover of Violent Femmes 'Kiss Off' with next to no instruments or sound .. My mouth was on the floor.
AGAIN AGAIN AGAIN. I'd kill.
Here is a moment I will never forget - god bless youtube. It gets going at 1:37


DOS.
SMASHING PUMPKINS - V Fest March
After spending most of angst ridden teenage years scribbling the lyrics from 'Siamese Dream' in my journal, I never thought I would ever get the chance to see them. Ever. It was up there with Nirvana as far as I was concerned.
To witness a mass of people chanting the lyrics to 'Today' reduced me to tears. I had been waiting for that day for almost half my life.
Many people will tell you it was shit, because they played new material which I fucking love so eh.. but it was an unexplainable moment in time to witness a musical god with a crowd in his palm and war peddle at his feet. I could even forgive them for leaving 'Zero' off the set list and playing Britney instead ;)


TRES.
RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE - Big Day Out Sydney
Another on the list of 'never going to see just give it up' however thanks to a year of solid comebacks the 90's alt gods blessed our shores headlining the Big Day Out.
Due to Bjork pulling out they played right after Arcade Fire and if I wasn't already in an amazing mood this sure as hell topped it off.
Opening with 'Testify' as it gently sprinkled rain upon the raging crowd, RATM were better than I could of ever imagined and ticked off one of my most life changing gigs yet.

QUATRO.
CHILDREN COLLIDE - The Metro - June?
I'm going to give this to a support act.
You don't expect your support on a bill to steal the show, but Children Collide pulled the rug out from under Grinspoon sometime in June.
I've now had the pleasure of seeing these guys four times but the show I am referring to was the second.
I was utterly hypnotized in the intense riffs and killer light show in sync with Johnny's rhythmic guitar spasms. Instrumentals and solid performances of the standard 'Cannibal' and 'Amphibious' it finessed as soon as it started and I couldn't get over the spectacle. It truly was CC at their best.

CINCO.
CAT POWER ENMORE THEATRE & Parades - The Annandale
Fifth spot is a tie between Cat Power & Parades.
The reason for this is because Cat Power, though amazing in performance, her voice as haunting as it is sweet, I was in the WORST mood during this gig.
I simply had so much trouble enjoying myself and really wasn't present for the gig.
However,when I think back, with vocals as smooth and husky and a room in awe of brilliant echo, her performance really was breathtaking.
And the runner up is Parades - My most favourite Sydney band!
Back in June these guys were playing at The Annandale in between acts such as Dappled Cities and The Seabellies and to tell you the truth, the small sets performed in intermission of tore up these headline acts in my opinion.
I've mentioned this gig before, and it still takes my breath away. Small room, beer on the floor, these guys playing meters away from the bar but worlds away from any other alternate band in Sydney right now, they really brought it.
I still remember just standing still in bouts of awe even after the band had clearly disappeared from sight. Killer. Intimate. Real music.

I've missed out so many shows and it was really hard to pick but these shows were the life changers :)
Let's hope I am as lucky next year!

What A Fucking Joke.

Kids, kiss goodbye freedom, festivals and fucking fun.

The future looks dark as early finish threatens music festival...

Now it's time for all things nice! PARADES.

A few months ago I spawned this little blogging machine and my first post was all about my favourite Sydney Indie band Parades!

At the time of print, the alternative group had just lost their magical, capricious female counterpart in a move best for the bands direction. At the time I was worried Parades might lose their niche and became increasingly stalkerish in attempt to gain details of a reformed line-up.

Sneaky Parades quietly surfaced with a female stand-in at the Jebediah concert at The Annandale in September, though unfortunately the shoe didn't fit and the the unlucky hopeful was sent packing. Not today disco lady.

Shortly after, a lovely young lass was plucked from Sydney's musical obscurity and with no more than a months practice Oriana De Luca was thrusted upon our feasting ears and eyes in a very intimate gig at Sydney's Spectrum.

It's safe to say I am their harshest (annoying) critic (apart from the band themselves and it's only out of love) and to be honest, I wasn't feeling the new addition. I probably jumped the gun too quick and maybe it was that I felt a loyal affection to the previous co-vocalist. As the gig progressed, Oriana became more and more comfortable on stage, her harmonies slipping into Daniel's and Parades began to form and come together like a perfectly constructed puzzle.

Still in love, I haul ass to Q Bar before 11pm (fright) a Friday or two ago to pledge my support and bring along some new ears, fellow blogger http://reel-around-the-fountain.blogspot.com/. Although I was almost too drunk to stand (I was actually requested by miss Reel to eat something) Oriana tore it apart and everything was perfect!
Co-voaclist and music extraordinaire Daniel, always the showman actually performed his drumming solo amongst the crowd in the middle of the floor! My jaw hit the sticky floor quicker than a teenage girls panties at a Jonas Brothers concert. Unbelievable.

Only getting better man, trust me, catch these guys it's too good to miss, even Triple J thinks so, putting the Spotlight on them for their famed comp Unearthed. Yeah! Yeah! Yeah! So rate them here, def worth it!
http://www.triplejunearthed.com/Artists/View.aspx?artistid=19421

And for you Coast people, I'm bringing them to you for Tubes 4 Googs this January so fear not.

http://www.myspace.com/parades

27 Dec 2008 8:00 P	The Hopetoun	Sydney, New South Wales
30 Dec 2008 8:00 P	Peats Ridge Festival w/ Pivot, Firekites, The Devoted Few, Sparkadia, + 195 more	Central Coast, New South Wales

Also check out www.t4g.com.au for line up info on the event including PARADES!


p e a c e.

You And Your Little Dog Too!

So my blog is pretty new, and I am still getting used to all that comes along with it, this includes criticism and open argument.

Yesterday I posted the below entry about Aussie rockers The Vines and I received some notable feedback which at first I didn't know quite how to take it, however I felt I didn't make myself clear.

Mental illness is a serious matter, so serious it is not something I take lightly nor something I base my music values on.

My blog below doesn't point the break down of the rock machine that is The Vines at mental disease or illness, but a troubled past and continuous chances post erratic behaviour.

Whatever the cause is behind The Vines pulling out of their tours, they are conducting their music and their lives in a public media sphere, ergo anything they do or do not do is subject to criticism to the public, no matter the cause.

We all watched the famous meltdown of Ms. Britney Spears late last year and you know what? Shit happens and when people act erratically in public or let down fans alas the backlash will no doubt follow.

Now my blog is just a place for me to review, and shout out bands I like and believe you me, it's not something I'd "quit my day job" for. However my day job is at MTV Australia where I am a published music news writer so I like to think I know a little about "what not to write".

If every blog was as ego stroking as the next don't you think you'd be a little bored? You're not going to agree with everything I write but in saying that I regret if I offended anybody who suffers mental illness or knows someone who does.

Be unmerciful. Be Honest. Be cool.

Sincerely wishing Craig all the good help he can get not to mention a speedy recovery, who knows, maybe I'm wrong?
:)

And The Curtain Is Closing.

Remember when you heard this rockin' new band in 2002?
And NME predicted a second coming of Nirvana whilst they graced the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine?...

Yeah The Vines once had a A LOT going for them, it's been six years of turbulence and second chances though it seems no matter how many opportunities these boys get, they're destined to fuck them all up.

I say this with regret, one of my most life changing records is 'Highly Evolved' and my idea of sex is Craig Nicholls, so it saddens me to finally turn my back on the home grown lads and admit this ship has sunk.

You might remember their woeful antics in 2004 which saw the lads banned from giving interviews by management and being booed off stage. Not to mention the radio station boycotts and the paparazzi assault to which Nicholls was officially charged. Fuck.

'Winning Days' was in fact a production of losing all face and the lads disappeared into what most hoped a one-hit-wonder oblivion.

Alas, reformed and tail wedged firmly between legs, a new line-up Vines took to a bunch of secret shows promoting their unexpected third studio record 'Vision Valley'.

For those who saw the performances in 2006 will tell you just how agile and sorry Nicholls was, continuously thanking the crowd for their ongoing support and seemed genuinely thankful and anxious.

We've all seen rock stars, wreckless and living the dream giving countless unpredictable guitar smashing stage performances.

Nicholls seems almost retarded but resembles a grunge god all at once. Whether you appreciate his tanless bare body the singer will light up cigarettes in his glowing glory and remain shirtless for entire sets generating some kind or morbid sexy.

The return of The Vines was well received but it was not Rolling Stone profit worthy and the band still seemed a shaky mess at the end of all tours and promotion so back into the studio they marched.

This time around in 2008 The Vines released 'Melodia' and took to big stage with several highly anticipated shows booked around the country.

I myself checked out the show at The Metro theater which I was really quite excited about. The show was pretty darn good, Craig did his thing, demonstrating reflections of autism and mental instability but it came off sexy and sounded wicked. I was actually really impressed despite the thunderous "thank you's" and obvious anxiety.

This was on November 2nd, by now, Novemeber 18th, The Vines have canned the rest of their tour unexpectedly and pulled out of every Music Festival including the much anticipated Big Day Out festival they famously took by storm in 2003.

The Vines only cancelled a single show at first blaming it on Nicholls anxiety of flying and issued an apologetic Myspace bulletin to the fans. This was soon followed by the news of complete tour cancellation due to Nicholls decreasing mental health, also pulling out of their Japanese tour, heavy man

So, Craig Nicholls is a shitwreck, always has been but it seems they're finally blown their last chance. Will the fans actually welcome them back AGAIN or are we all just sick of their shit? I'm going to go with the latter, see how quickly their record company drops them?

Harsh but true.

If I were an alternate DJ for one set.

Okay, so I know nothing about getting a room pumping, but all I do know is what gets me off in a club.
Mostly undanceable tracks, and more sitting back sipping songs for me to just be like "ooh I like this one"..

Just so you know, I am so unqualified at this, I cleared the d-floor in Q Bar this Friday by requesting a Smiths song.. boourns.

If I were a DJ..

Idioteque - Radiohead
How Soon Is Now - The Smiths
Wash The Day Away - TVONTR
Kool Thing - Sonic Youth
Burn My Shadow - Unkle
Obstacle 1 - Interpol
Operate - Peaches
Laika - Arcade Fire
Gravel Pit - Wu-Tang Clan
Shove Your Hope - Santogold
Bigmouth Strikes Again - The Smiths
Right Here Right Now - Fat Boy Slim
Coffee and T.V - Blur

Click Click CAMERAS!

Delayed, but oh sooo worthy.

About 2 months ago I was reading, Drum Media or was it The Brag? One of the likes and in a tiny, itsy bitsy blurb I saw the names Cat Power and Radiohead. Now, these titles are like food to a homeless person to my eyes so I read the blurb for proper inspection and of course to check the names were not used in vain.

It went on to read how this Sydney band was a talent collision of the two prestigious sounds, that of melancholy, whimsical vocals and alternate bars and synthesis. If you know me, I instantly became wet at the though of something that magical deriving from out local Sydney suburbs.

Turns out, lead singer and keys artist Eleanor Dunlop is Triple J unearthed alum. The talented songstress has intended on going solo for some time though when Fraser Harvey (vocals, guitar) pressed the idea of starting a band for the last time Dunlop conceded to the idea. With Ben Kingssott (drums) in tow, they were then ‘Cameras’. Rad.

Anyway, after obsessing about these guys for months I finally caught wind of a show they were doing at The Hopetoun. I was on that train so fast I am pretty sure I left my keys inside, which I do a lot.

The three piece were competing in the Hopetoun Homebake Incentive, which takes place every Monday up until well, Homebake.

The first song they played is by far my favourite ‘Defeatist’, which features Harvey predominately on vocals and Dunlop harmonizing in the background. The contrast and dissimilarity between male and female vocal harmonies always portray that effortless edge of melody.

'The Bolshelviks' is a second favourite. It bears a more psychedelic influence, that of The Rolling Stones and old rock and roll. It's a considerable variation from the other tracks but isn't too left field and just picks you up if you're doing a roll through all the tracks.

Most songs feature focuses mainly Dunlop on vocals as her huskily smooth voice as sexy as that of Chan Marshall. Her haunting melodies lull you into some kind if indie hypnosis.

CAMERAS.
See them, you'll know what I mean and their Myspace player creates excellent ambiance for the whimsically sleepy.

Check them out here;

http://www.myspace.com/camerasband

From The U.K to Kalifornia - The Subways

Ladies and gentlemen, I write to you from a grimy train on its way to the often-misunderstood Gosford City, and often referred to by me as, well G-town. Fortunately, this entry is far more appealing!

The Subways. I love them, I love them.
They played at Big Day Out in January 2006 and because I was ignorant enough to make no effort due to unheard sounds, I missed them. In Early March I heard a song in Sanity that just grabbed me. I had to have ‘Young For Eternity’. So in saying that I confirm that yes, most advertising does work on me.

I took the record home and sure enough, every other song rocked me. I was going through a messy break-up at the time and though I had learnt the singer was actually engaged to the saucy bass player, they touched the torture and frustration of love so bitterly, I could just relate.

The raw energy of ‘I Want To Hear What You’ve Got To Say’ still executes me. Though that time in my life had passed and that angst of someone not loving you back had disappeared, I can still feel it in my stomach.

The 2006 release suffered an extreme case of high rotation and received plays from multiple car stereos, which resulted in the loss of the disc, leaving me only with the case. Nothing burns me more that a scratched CD. Utter disrespect to a rarity, some people feel the same, someone I know would burn copies of all his records for the pure suicide of the disc traveling. He also hated this CD, which doesn’t surprise me it was his car it disappeared in..? Hmm.

Other than the plays it amounted from moi, The Subways remained frightenly quiet in Australia. Hailing from the U.K, I often questioned if they’d be back and when the news broke of the split between Billy Lunn (guitar/vocals) & Charlotte Cooper (bass) honestly doubted another record let alone a show.

Thankfully, the two somehow (and I just don’t know how they could be in a room together let alone a band) co-wrote music throughout the break-up and produced the new record ‘All or nothing’.

It amazes me and I can hear the pain in songs like ‘Shake Shake’. You can witness the need for attention yet the anger. The lyrics “I got a need to feel so I shake, shake! You got a problem with me say it” that run over an angry riff personifies the hostility not only in the band during the split but even the relationship itself.
I just love the repetition of “I COULDN’T CARE IF WE LOSE”. And I can’t help to think if this was penned in the event of the demised union.

I just fucking love these guys and I’m normally anxious of Vines’esque follow-up but the U.K kids have prevailed and are coming to Australia in 2009!

I will die.

Im Not Dead.

No, not the p!nk record, just me.

Little old blog abandoner, you know, I'm sorry. lalala.

I've been such a busy bee and I'm not over you and I'm not full of fat excuses.

I have some stuff to go up on some hot bods like Cameras, The Vines, The Subways and general tirades of rubbish.

However until then, in case you hadn't already, here are some of my MTV articles you might just like ;)
Music Industry Support Obama
http://www.mtv.com.au/news/946/
The Smiths to reunite
http://www.mtv.com.au/news/930/
Award smoes
http://www.mtv.com.au/news/906

Click here for my MTV story on Digital Distribution + Radiohead!

http://www.mtv.com.au/news/895

:):):):)

Still here! Promise!

Hey lovely boys and girls,
So I have been lagging with the posts buuut there will be some coming up!

If you don't already know, I have been writing for MTV.com.au in the Digital Media department, so if you see an article by one Samantha Dickson or Samantha Miller (pen name)in the news section, that would be moi.

I also went to Parklife on Sunday, which was a big fat bag of fresh dog shit.
I have never actually been to a festival which was predominately sweaty men playing records and people popping drugs. Can't say I will repeat this, though I did purchase a Field Day ticket :S

Who I did catch, Papa VS Pretty, Art VS Science, Grafton Primary, Ajax or what I could hear, steaming dog shit ... and then Peaches who blew me away. I will write a more detailed entry about them all but basically I just learnt that "house" music isn't my bag, and either is the scene, really, people should take more drugs... they look amazing!

Crouching Coast, Hidden talent - FIREROOM.

During my time trapped inside the beached in confines of the Central Coast, I actually got to discover a few things.. A) Nothing news worthy goes on here, and B) We actually breed some gutsy rock ‘n’ roll!
The definition of “rock” is fitted and used loosely to a lot of acts these days and I don’t know if it even has its own genre these days or if it is simply sub crossed? Like oh, pop/rock, electro/rock or even ghetto/classical/house/rock/alt .. who even knows yeah?
To me, rock is the sound of beer.. yes, beer.. Sticky floor, dark flavored wood and red carpet pub accessory. Maybe it was the way I was brought up, or maybe it's just Australian rock as I like to see it.

Upon thought of this solid genre disappearing all together, I did pay attention to a little Coast gig that I've seen progress and take a few shapes over the past two years.
Now when they first caught me by the ears, they were a 3 piece titled Deep Water, Kurt Ellis Manning vocals and guitar, stealing the show.. There were two other guys playing drums and bass though they have since moved on. The bass player, I think his name was Pat, had trouble not being the focus of the band and it was like watching a three year old getting jealous of a newborn. Ellis always delivers. Writing all the songs and even playing the guitar behind his back! Outrageous.

When you hear the songs, you think of driving through the outback, summer, warm beer and probably early 90's mixed with the riffs of the 70's. With influences like Hendrix also evidently a solid Elvis undertone. It's classic ultimate music for men. The sound is an interesting mix, vocals are classical and similar sounding to those of Elvis, actually almost exact and the riff is catchy backed up wit a touch of funky bass lines.

Now what appears to be just Ellis and a few temp guys have just finished recording in Brisbane with Chartsong Productions (The guys that brought you The Veronica's) and recording their percussion's at the famous Albert Studios Sydney. Is something brewing here?

My only criticism is towards their track "Oh My Darling" which you can listen to on their Myspace Music Player, is that it is simply too "old school". At the end of the day, if you're an artist, you want people to hear or see you in some kind of commercial domain, and to be honest, this will never be on radio. It would appeal to those of you who crave some 50's do do's and whoa's but this isn't rock. Not a bad song, but it is just too retro for my style.

My favourite is Mullumbimby Madness. Good rock 'n' roll. Not utterly lyrically genius, but everything a good song needs.

I see a bright future for Ellis, pure talent.

Click here to check out the sounds of FIREROOM!

Sparkadia Support Faker @ Enmore

So after picking up my tickets, my plus one calls me in an apologetic rage, something about two hour bus rides from Bondi, who knows? But basically is running late.
In this time, my brain is exploding from stress, trains, no trains, cabs, traffic and phone calls. So whilst I'm regrouping out the front of The Enmore Theatre, I have some time to observe the crowd and oddly need a cigarette, what's that you say? You don't even smoke? I know!

Note to self; in next life, start easy listening Indie/Pop Band = gets girls, lots of them and underage ones too! You'd be hard pressed to find someone old enough to vote, let alone old enough for any of these guys (who prefer) to bag. So all in all it was your average underage gig, this part I had forgotten about.

Even though I am late, the kind people at Sparkadia were nice enough to give us standing tickets, which I didn't expect.
Did I mention it was at least 100 degrees outside? Sweaty Youth in slogan T-Shirts. No doubt Mothers are waiting in cars just blocks away.
By now, I look like either a scalper or a hooker just wallflowing against the promo signs, though my night gets immediately cooler when Alex (the front man of Sparkadia) calls me himself to see where I'm at. First I'm like "SHIT MICHELLE HURRY UP" thinking I was in trouble, though quite the opposite. He kindly tells me it's okay and I can just hand out some flyer's after the show to make good. Sounds good. Be cool, hand out a flyer and also stop talking when he tells me he has to finish his dinner now, haha. Sam, Sam, Sam.

So when I make it inside, there is some nu metal hip hop type thing going on. The guy claims he is homegrown and a proud Sydney sider, though his American accent throws me, could be because I had had a few vodkas but I am kind of confused all the same.

Soon enough, Sparkadia take the stage, just affront a projected image of Mr Lion, who is featured on the cover new record 'Postcards'. Their sound floods the room, but I still compare it to their free show, which I snuck in through the back door due to full capacity at The Annandale. The echos always get me but I am disappointed with the lack of response from the full room. They're great, they sound like no one else, and Alex's voice is so classical yet it works wonders for their sound. I just genuinely love their music. They four piece played all their hits and closed with 'Animals' featuring a fun little instrumental at the end. Now, with love, the instrumental wasn't as smooth as I would of liked it to be, but it was pulled off and Sparkadia went out with a bang, no doubt some fans were made if they were otherwise unaware of this smooth like honey talent.

Intermission.

Sam hits up Thai across the road with BYOB Verdi (NO CORKAGE! CRAZY) and gets all drunk and missed most of Faker.
Eh. I return, Enmore has admitted everyone, and whilst not full capacity, still jumping, even if it all 16 year olds.
Now, is it just me, or is Faker lead singer Nathan Hudson THE sweatiest dude alive? He is so theatrical in all physical performance, I almost expect him to break into liturgical movement. Not so lucky.
Hudson also states they owe their success to last years radio killer 'This Heart Attack' and kick into the song. It's true, at least they're grateful for the hit maker, no Cobain angst towards the mainstream and it's refreshing to witness an act be thankful for success outside an award speech slurred over vodka breath.
Closing with 'Hurricanes' & 'Quarter to Three, the two songs I actually like, they did okay and I move towards the door to do my flyer duties.
Surprisingly almost everybody picked up a little flyer, suggesting Sparkadia generated a great response that night and I decide to offer one to the band members in jest, these guys are just cool. Do rate the sounds and the girl and guys themselves.

The rest of the night, not so clear but buy 'Postcards', it is probably one of the most consistent solid records this year.

Check the tour dates and beats below!
http://www.myspace.com/sparkadia

Clip of My Week; Striken City - Tak O Tak

Am I onto something?




Just fun time chic.
I like the drummer. Cute.

Am not..

Attending Coaster this weekend, I know. Traitor. :(
But take some photos, tell me who did what.
I am the worst music blogger right? No, not entirely.
Miss Blog scored some freeeee tickets to Sparkadia & Faker @ The Enmore, unfortunate timing, honestly. But all the same, write me something about the festival (samtown@live.com) and I will post most comments if you like and to your credit.
Peace.

Oxford Art Factory Do Bird Automatic!

Cool! So people who claim the Sydney music scene is dead, can go punch it.
I saw these dudes at The Hopetoun once or twice at the beginning of the year, pretty small scene, not much fuss but pretty rad all the same. Anyhow, after heavily committing to the gig circuit these guys are running Oxford Arts tonight and are deserving of the fine stage.
I know, could I talk about OAF anymore? Well last night I had this dream it closed down and a place called Chadstick opened up instead, not happy. One of those dreams you wake up all in a sweat, or you're just really dramatic like me.
Anyway these guys are good, pretty good. Just easy rock 'n' roll, nothing too full on, over the top, or "wannabee" scene. They just write good music and perform it with ease. Also copping a little bit of air time on Tripe J so I can smell something amounting from this quality EP. There is still room to wriggle through these days, you just have to work the people.

So how do you get there?
RSVP your names to this bad boy, and I hear whispers they're on at 11pm.
I can't go due to domestic duties so please, if you go, feed me the reviews.
rsvp@whothehell.net
&&&
Check out the tunes here, my fave is Can't Sleep, so give it a spin. Cattccchhhyy

http://www.myspace.com/birdautomatic

The Waysiders = Rad.

Like most, I believe that the grunge movement is dead.
However, for the first time in a really long time, I heard something not unlike the droned sounds of an early Sonic Youth in a garage, or Blur playing for their High School assembly. Unpolished, under rehearsed, pure rhythmic angst with a drearily happy undertone.
I am in love.
The boys are from Sydney from what I can tell and there is little on or about them. They made their fine little way onto my radar performing at Social Killers Club at Plantation last Saturday night. I was standing in the line after having the life sucked out of me by the awful, awful Tank nightclub ... God I hate that place. Anyway, where was I? Right, I am standing in the bar line desperately awaiting alcohol when it hit me.. I wish I knew the track names and I wish could remember their story, but they're still such a mystery.
I honestly smell an obsession. Beware.

Check the lads out at http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=77892395 - they don't have an official link :( sorry guys.

And if you want to see the magic for yourself check them out here;

10 Oct 2008 10:00 P

MUM @ world bar

Sydney, New South Wales

Top 5 favorite songs to hear in a filthy pub with a warm Bourbon in your hand at 3am by The Lazys

Introducing my monthly Top Five random questions to my favorite bands, and also the best thing to come out of The Central Coast since Something With Numbers, The Lazys!
The raw young lads have been belting out pure energy and redefining rock'n'roll since 2006. These boys may be new kids on the block but are quickly being recognised for their anthemic edgy sound and also their huge following.

Here is Leon from The Lazys,

Top 5 favorite songs to hear in a filthy pub with a warm Bourbon in your hand at 3am!

1) AC/DC - Beating Around The Bush
"Cause it's raw and gets the blood pumping!"

2) Muse - Knights of Cydonia
"So I can pull out my favorite air guitar moves!

3) Billy Joel - New York State of Mind
"So i can have a drunken sing along!"

4) Silverchair - Israels Son
"So I can break stuff!!"

5) Coldplay - Death & All His Friends
"So I can wind down..."

To check out beats from The Lazys and some tour dates just clickity click!!

http://www.myspace.com/thelazys

The Drums, The Drums, The Drums..

On Wednesday I attended the Triple J Rooftop Party at which The Ting Tings performed as a once of special in Sydney. Majority of guests were tickets winners via the radio station, like myself. Boy was the crowd weird. A few hipsters, roving journalists pestering for interviews and well just a lot of old guys..

More importantly about the show, it was an early set, I'd say they came on at about 8pm and were off after 20 minutes. Now in their defense, The Salford Precinct duo had just arrived off the back of a grueling flight from The U.K and openly mentioned they were severely jet lagged, so it was short and sweet.
An incredible start, the performance died in the arse when closing with their biggest hit thus far 'That's Not My Name". By this point, both were in a sweat but Katie White had trouble keeping up with the backing track and at many points, I noticed her eyes rolling back in her head. It looked more like verge of passing out of exhaustion than just poor effort in performance.

Though there is a lot of reliance on backing tracks with most of the songs from the debut album 'We started Nothing', the sound is great with White delivering fierce cutting chic vocals. Confident on stage and pretty tight, apart from 'That's Not My Name', I'm sure they would kick off a show perfectly and with ease if they were 100%.

The Duo even inserted little gimmicks I guess they use regularly on stage. One consisted of completely freezing in mid air in the middle of 'We Walk'. Drummer Jules de Martino, stopping still with drumsticks in the air and White paused with a Mallet just inches away from a self titled assembled drum kit... To which you guessed it, she beat the drum impromtuously . Sigh, how I despise this, Especially when you could hardly hear it and it was out of time.

I know it sounds like I have few nice things to say, it's just I expected more from a once of performance. It was enjoyable, though I think I was making mental notes the whole time which is pretty distracting to vibe.
My favourite performance would have to be 'Shut Up & Let Me Go'. For short songs, they gave them a good run. This song really reminds me of Blondie and the essence of 'Rapture', no doubt an influence.

Would I see them again and pay? Yeah, sure, why not?
The talent is there, the songs are banging, all and all they're the best new age Pop act in my opinion, or that I can appreciate. I would just like to witness their magic sans jet lag.

Thank you United Kingdom for the pleasure of music you still continue to deliver effortlessly.

P.S. Terrible photo by my shitty Sidekick.
P.P.S. How gumby is this photo from www.inthemix.com.au

Top 5.

In light of my awful mood I am creating a Top 5 playlist of tracks I get emo to.

Basically these are the tracks I use to bask in my melancholy moods.

CAUTION: Only listen to if already in a lull between positivity.

Top five tracks to cry to in no order

The Smiths - Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want (Louder Than Bombs 1987 & also Hatful of Hollow 1993 U.S.)

Placebo - Running Up That Hill (Originally by Kate Bush - Originally a bonus track on Sleeping With Ghosts, then again on the re-released version of Meds 2007)

Cat Power - Ice Water (Myra Lee 1996)

Radiohead - How To Disappear Completely (Kid A 2000)

Smashing Pumpkins - Zero (Mellon Collie & The Infinite Sadness 1995)


I will make these according to moods occasionally, feel free to tell me yours ('',)

Discuss...

Know your blogger..

It has been a busy day getting this baby off the ground.
But I will squeeze out one more post before the day is done online and go watch bad television.

A little bit about your onion, I mean blogger.
I don't want to be too much of a mystery, but am focusing more on the vibes & tunes.
20 turning 21, typical Scorpio and queen of mess.
My life revolves around music and the scenes that accompany.
My favorite day of the week is Thursday and of the year, the 25th of January. Big Day Out is sacred to me and I enjoy kicking fluro wearing loose fitting singlet wearers (with my mind).

My favorite film is High Fidelity and I enjoy mainly my 90's bands, especially those who have transcended successfully into the now. What do you call the now?
The best sounds to depict my taste is a mix of The Smiths, Radiohead, Cat Power, Sonic Youth & Smashing Pumpkins. If they all had a baby, I'd name it Larry, then die.
I have an incredibly dry sense of humor and will probably offend you.
I'm not talented, I just talk a lot. My guitar tunes are that of two cats screwing and singing alike.

Oh yes, I blog on a MAC.. Hiss.

Soo pleased to meet you and enjoy. Peace.

Are you Coast Bound?

Is the boat empty?
I don't think so! Probably the best thing to go on on the Central Coast for a VERY long time. Some good friends of mine have put in immense work to get this baby off the ground, and well done!
If you don't already know, I was born and bread on the Coast, small town North Avoca girl. Since moving away to Sydney I have been running out of reasons to venture north. This will be reason enough, "got music, will travel" and you know what? I will.
It's about and hour and a half maximum from the City - train or car and the line up is worth fair/toll evasion.
I am so excited for The Seabellies and COG plus headliner The Living End. My only complaint would be the ticket pricing, working full time and paying rent, realistically, $69 + bf isn't a lot, though I would of liked to have seen some small town spirit in the pricing, at least until the second year. The value is there but is it recogniseable enough for the bucks? Let us hope so.
Tickets are still selling and with the date fast approaching (September 20th) the Coast is buzzing so check out the site for full line up and ticket info.

www.coasterfestival.com

Just sayin'..

Like everybody else I have been bandwagon to this American duos infectious tunes. Like everybody else bar a spare few, I missed out on tickets for their Enmore Show ( since moved to Hordern Pavillion - tickets on sale September 5th). Oh, and you will find me attempting purchase again.
Yes, the sound is a great fusion of electro "fun time tracks" like 'Kids' and just catchy tunes like 'Weekend Wars'. But is it overkill?
Almost everyone I know answers their phones to the tune of 'Electric Feel' and it seems its on high rotation on every radio station. Now success is a funny thing, much over exposure could be the end of you, take Sneaky Sound System for example. When I hear her voice my brain automatically shuns it to the "ugh" pile. I am sick of them, and it would take a killer track and maybe a lot of drugs to get me to dance to it.
Like everyone else, I love MGMT (The Management) but I don't see it lasting with this much attention, if I am not already bored of them in December then the show will be killer. Lets hope for the best yeah?

Papa VS Pretty - almost as intense as camping?

Okay, so if you know me personally, you'd know I am in some serious cradle snatching lust with this little under 18's indie piece.
I first saw them at The Hopetoun as part of The Homebake Incentive program. This is basically a competition run to play at Homebake as an unsigned local band. It goes on every Monday, it's pretty rad. But back to the band at hand.
I'm captivated by them, mainly the multi talented Thomas Rawle who runs vocals guitars and synths. Belting out killer original tunes and they also did justice to the often covered Joy Division - Love Will Tear Us Apart. There is a funny story behind it. As they really made the song their own, I turned to a fellow blogger and friend, then stated "Hmm, kind of sounds like Joy Division, but it's good"... He just glared at me and then on came the chorus. I went and had another beer and tried to forget my faux pas.
This kid will be famous. Mark blogging words. You have to see it to know what I mean, but Rawle is the frontman the indie scene are craving. So, pretty intense.

Check em out?

12 Sep 2008 8:00 P	FBI’s B’BASH @ World Bar w/The Grates, Yves Klien Blue, SPOD + More	Sydney
18 Sep 2008 8:00 P	CLUB 77 (wth Sea Slugs)	Sydney, New South Wales
19 Sep 2008 8:00 P	Sosueme @ Q-Bar	Sydney, New South Wales
5 Oct 2008 12:00 P	PARKLIFE (Kippax Lake, Moore Park) + Goldfrapp/Soulwax/Peaches/Dizzie Rascal	Sydney, New South Wales
5 Oct 2008 6:00 P	The Annandale-Alternative Music Awards	Sydney, New South Wales
7 Dec 2008 8:00 P	MCA (genration next) Finale	Sydney, New South Wales

The Ting Tings! (Live on Triple J Roof Top)

Be jealous. Oh so darn jealous!
Did I win tickets to this exclusive set live atop a roof top? Nope. But two of my favourite people did! Thus far, my best zero effort ever!
To my people crying out loud whilst reading these words, I will do my best to capture a snap or two, and give you a full update. This is the ONLY Sydney show, so many hearts have been broken.
It's been a quick onslaught on our radio waves and pub tunes but we've welcomed this U.K pop act straight onto our playlists.. and I have distinct feeling we will be seeing them all through The Hottest 100 for 08'. Keep you posted! Listen to Triple J for your chance to win!

Social Currency - Children Collide.

Social Currency is the new single from up and coming yet perfectly aged Melbourne band Children Collide.
Highly anticipated is the release of their debut album 'The Long Now' due out October 11th, it's going to be rockin'.
This track is just a taste of the flavor behind this release. Taking Triple J by storm for a couple of years now they've become famous for that incredibly catchy 'Amphibious' tune. The lyrics like all greats mean a whole lot of nothing but that unmistakable riff that makes me dance around on my bed is just one of the reasons they landed a contract with Universal.
Below is the new video for Social Currency and also some of the dates their playing in Sydney, one being the record launch at Oxford Arts Factory (my most favorite place in the world) which you can win tickets to by simply clicking this link;
www. myreg. net/checkform?force_form=1&form_id=13614)

Check em' out!

4 Sep 2008 8:00 P

The Gaelic Theatre W/The Hoodoo Gurus

Sydney, New South Wales

5 Sep 2008 8:00 P	Penrith RSL W/The Hoodoo Gurus	Penrith, New South Wales
6 Sep 2008 8:00 P	Wyong Leagues Club W/The Hoodoo Gurus	Wyong, New South Wales

Parades!

For my first post, I am pleased to be writing about this talented now four piece Sydney indie ensemble.
Sydney born and bread, these four boys, now sans their whimsical female vocals for now have been a building force. Each show as impromptu and impressive as the last, their soft washes of instrumental and contrast between vocals take you to place of utter musical endearment.
Most will liken their sounds to the tunes of Radiohead, this may have been influenced by the covers they have performed live at The Hopetoun (Surry Hills).
The last time I saw them was between acts The Small Hours And Dappled Cities at an Annandale show in June. It seems everyone is beating drums erratically these days but watching the pure energy in the song claimed to be written that afternoon, I was eating my own words in regards to this pet hate.
As enchanting as they are, I do hope they recruit a new female vocal before they start playing more shows. Though I think they'll impress no matter what, it seems to be their niche and what makes them sound different to every other indie band with a Myspace page.

So far, the only gig listed is at The Annandale this Friday the 5th of September playing alongside Jebediah which is unfortunately sold out to my dismay.

Check out the tunes @ www.myspace.com/parades