The Fearless Vampire Killers

Melbourne band The Fearless Vampire Killers are set to release their new album, Batmania on October 7th. The album features their latest single "Tell Me What You Are Trying To Say". I caught up with bassist Jacob McGuffie to talk about tiny venues, the joys and perils of transcontinental mixing and skateboarding with the New York Dolls

Bark Magazine: You guys just recently played a warehouse party over the weekend... (How was the warehouse party on Friday?)

Jacob McGuffie: Yeah, it was pretty wild. We played in this room, which was 4m wide and about 5m deep, heaps of people packed into a small space, (which was really fun) but yeah people were really into it. That was the launch of the "Tell Me what you trying to Say" clip, so, well I felt pretty rubbish the next day but it was a huge success.

BM: So you went to High Vibes on Sunday?

JM: Yeah we played (at High Vibes) on the Sunday. I've been missing that festival when it wasn't on. I think the last one was 2009, so there was one missing. But it is such a good day. I reckon it's my favourite festival

BM: You are playing with the New York Dolls Soon?

JM: We're Playing the Boroughs festival - which is on the 8th of October. Its meant to be a New York style of boutique festival, it being in capital cities (around Australia) . New York Dolls are head lining it, with The Hello Morning playing the Melbourne one, and they have films, art exhibitions and I'm pretty sure they have skateboarding- The Melbourne one is at the Globe headquarters, so I'm gonna have to get a deck out, and see if I can still do a kick flip

BM: I sort of started too late, so by the time I was fifteen, it was too late

JM: I think I just got kind of sick of spraining my wrists and not being able to play guitar...

BM: You are just about to release your debut album, Batmania on the 7th of October. You work with Lars Stalfors (The Mars Volta, Matt and Kim, The Dum Dum Girls) for that?

JM: It was recorded at the rehearsal studios in Northcote with a computer and a bunch of mics and then a lot of overdubs and vocals were recorded with Michael Badger from Demon Parade. We then had a few engineers do some test mixes, and Lars's were awesome. Then the tracks got sent to him,

it was months, talking back and forth with him. He'd send us a mix, we'd listen to it and decide what we'd what to change, then we'd have to send an email back ... it was like a really long process.

BM: Well that's the thing with mixing with some overseas, its not like you can just into the room and say "I want to change that"...

JM: Well, you want to change tiny things, which can make a huge difference, but you right - if you were in the studio it would take 30 secs to try something new, whereas it was taking a week, just to get a little bit of reverb on something. In that sense it definitely tested everyone’s patience, but the end result was great, and, I can't wait for people to hear it.

BM You've been working on this about 2 years…

JM: Yeah, probably about that. I think most people expect to spend 12 months on an album, so maybe two years as a bit long…

BM: but you're happy with the results now...

JM: Yeah, it sounds great - the artworks being worked on at the minute, and it looks fantastic. It'll be good to have it in our hot little hands finally.

BM: You are playing some dates coming up in October November

JM: We're supporting Laney Lane, which should be really cool - we're playing Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane with her - she's really gaining some momentum now, after doing that single with Jack White. We're pretty much touring the same venues as we did with Vasco Era a month back…

BM: So, random question, what music have you been listening to recently?

JM: At the minute - I listen to heaps of contemporary Blue grass. There's this fantastic album by these two guys Chris Thile & Michael Daves, it’s a duo album, just guitar and mandolin, they both sing, it's just killer. It was actually recorded at Jack White's Third Man studios, so there you go.

BM: All kind of tying in...

JM: Yeah - well I listen to lots of stuff, but I am struggling for new music though, I’m having one of those months

BM: Sometimes it becomes overwhelming; there are just too many bands to even try to dive into at the moment...

JM: I just give up, and go back to listen to music I listened to as a teenager...

Check out the new video "Tell Me What You're Trying To Say" :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B09_U0svCp4

The Fearless Vampire Killers new album Batmania is out October 7th 2011.

They play the Boroughs Festival in Melbourne on the 8th October with The New York Dolls, the Hello Morning and more. For More info check out theboroughs.com.au

For more info on other shows check out their website www.thefearlessvampirekillers.com

Laura Marling's new album 'A Creature I Don't Know' is set for release 9th September 2011 by EMI Records. Produced by Ethan Johns (Kings of Leon, Ryan Adams, Emmylou Harris). It follows the success of her sophomore record, the Mercury Award nominated ‘I Speak Because I Can’, which debuted in Australia at no 7 on the ARIA charts. She won the Best British Female Solo Artist at the Brit Awards in February, and Best Solo Artist at the NME awards.

Earlier this week EMI held a pre-listening party at 99 Problems in Collingwood, and Bark was lucky enough to go along to hear the album in full. It was a small, intimate affair of about 30 people, and the album is indeed a must-buy for this year. Watch the video for the song 'Sophia' below, and to order the album check out www.lauramarling.com.
SOPHIA VIDEO  :    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-TMl5oCRjk   www.lauramarling.com
https://www.facebook.com/lauramarling
http://99problems.com.au/

There was a rumble of Stonefield anticipation that hovered through the East Brunswick Club; the air particles were excited, zapping the crowd with static as individuals shuffled forward to occupy the area closest to the stage. There was a slight nudge to and fro from dedicated fans as they tried to hold their spot, which granted them a clear view of the unoccupied stage. Sight was a vital commodity and as I stood tippy toed straining to see over a large group of boys who had moved forward blocking my view I began to be thankful for the imposed ballet classes of my youth.

Stonefield hit the stage erupting the crowd who shook slightly knocking me down from my already aching toes. Stonefield who are made up of four sisters Amy, Hannah, Holly and Sarah possess an aura of humility thanking everyone for attending their sold out concert. These girls are young and sweet, embodying the stereotype of the girls next door and just as I was ready to file them next to Baby from Dirty Dancing and call it a day, my stereotype was knocked out of my mind and drowned by the voice of Stonefield’s lead singer Amy. Amy possesses a voice 20 years older and 30 years wiser than her actual age. Amy has somehow been able to harness a voice that has danced for years with the blues, tobacco and whiskey. And as she belted out tunes while playing the drums notions of typical girl band melted from my mind, these girls have natural talent. Hannah’s fingers jump over the guitar stings like an intense game of Double Dutch, Holly on bass spun her hair around like a windmill and Sarah performed amazing key solos while providing back up vocals.

As Stonefield guided the crowd through their psychedelic set the patrons became hypnotized, one man next to me mumbled all the words to their songs with his eyes closed while waving his arms in the non-existent wind.  The patrons bumped against each other as every drumbeat sent vibrations through the crowd and girls in the crowd wore headbands to mimic the band that they had so quickly fallen in love with and all of a sudden the hippy revolution was revived.

Stonefield are like Australia’s answer to the Jackson’s I know it seems like a big statement but this family of girls who hail from country Victoria have the ability to stun a crowd and endear and audience. Since winning unearthed high in 2010 their music career has catapulted into another dimension. These girls have played Glastonbury, the Roxy in L.A. and toured with the Kaiser Chiefs. Friday night was the beginning of their solo Australian tour which will see them playing everywhere from Hobart to Toowoomba. The girls will next play in Brisbane on the 7th at Bakery Lane. If you can catch them, DO these girls are amazing and not to be missed, their new single Black Water Rising is available now on iTunes.

Roscoe James Irwin will release his solo album, The Hunting Road, in September. I know the name Roscoe James Irwin is one part of The Cat Empire and like the members of The Cat Empire Roscoe James is well know in the Australian music scene for his loud and sometimes boisterous musical compositions, experimenting with different musical genres and instruments.  With this in mind I was excited to hear that Irwin had accomplished what so many musos can only dream of, branching off and completing his solo album. Irwin spent time in the Canadian mountains nursing a broken heart and starting what would turn out to be the birth of his new solo album The Hunting Road.

I will be completely honest with you… this album is a grower… I came to this record with a knapsack full of love for the Cat Empire slung over my shoulder and expected to find the same larrikin fun loving tunes that had me screaming “Hello Hello” in my youth.  I listened to track after track with a confused look smeared across my face and my hand hovering over the skip button waiting for the big brass lines or the semi reggae tunes of my past. This is a warning for those who are temped to do the same thing please put the knapsack down before pressing play. The Hunting Road is of a totally different calibre of music, it seems that the solitude of the Canadian mountains and the defeat of another relationship allowed Irwin to peal back his usually grandiose style of music.

The album is speckled with sweet pop tunes, simple beats and folk guitar. This is an album about him. It is like Irwin decided to take away all the tinsel off the Christmas tree and show his fans the most honest version of his music. The Hunting Road is an album of the heart, based around loves lost, gained and lost again. This is an album for the ladies, one that will have them sighing at his honesty and gushing at the beauty of his voice.

The first single from this album, 100 nights, has cute country guitar weaved amongst James’ angelic voice and sweet lyrics about endless love and heart felt vows. Irwin is currently touring Australia introducing fans to his new sound.  Irwin will next play on the 9th September 2011 at The Promethean in Adelaide. The album The Hunting Road will officially be released on September 5th 2011. This is an album for the broken hearted and those who are trying and sometimes failing at love. If this sounds you, grab a hold of The Hunting Road as soon as you can.

  Splendour gets the better of me every year with better line ups, this year was no different hail some of the biggest international acts playing one off shows in Australia especially for the festival. I spent the weekend wired like a maniac as I tried to navigate my way from stage to stage in a desperate attempt to catch everything I wanted to see. I bounced from the Kasier Chiefs, to Modest Mouse, Gotye to Australian sweet hearts Architecture and Helsinki but with so much I can only sprinkle you with a taste of the Splendour pie so here it is:

Regina Spektor

The crowd mulled close together their shoulders touching in a delicate way that is unaccustomed for an Australian music festival. The stage was speckled with instruments that gave the narrative that a whole band was about to storm in and play another large festival set. There was a collective sigh released as the quirky Regina took the stage solo sitting quietly in front of the piano and began to play. Her notes drifted around the crowd like a silk ribbon tying each individual closer together as the cocked their ears to experience the delicate performance that floated and drowned in the noise of the booming bass from the Mix up tent. This was to be her only performance for the year and her talent allowed the crowd to know that they were experiencing something unique. Regina jumped from instrument to instrument and lead the crowd through the wonderland of her musical repertoire. As she sung her hits the crowd sang softly in unison, there were no show ponies yelling out out-of-tune one line lyrics but dedicated fans that whispered her lyrics so as not to distract from her talent. The sound of the soft singing crated a hum that vibrated through the small crevices between audience members and warmed the cooling air in the mid winter Brisbane evening.

The Middle East

The Middle East is one of those bands that constricts your airways when you see them live. They have the ability to make it hard to breath as you stand in awe while the band serenades with their beautiful melodies and honest lyrics. The Middle East played through all there greatest hits like a love letter to the crowd. Half way through the performance the band announced that this was to be the last of their performances together with the group disbanding after Splendour in the Grass. This came as a shock to their fans who looked at the rest of the show as a Dear John letter beautifully written but holding the pain of the end of an era in every lyric and note. The show concluded with the quote “This is the last ever song of our last ever show.” And as they played the crowd hung on like a girlfriend not ready to say goodbye and as the band exited the stage the crowd stood around not knowing whether to be sad that that was the end or happy that they were there to witness it.

Foster the people

There are moments in time where one feels the movement of a collective instead of a mass of individuals bumping awkwardly against each other to the same beat. Foster the people brought this feeling to Splendour. While all crammed into one tent the crowd seemed to be hypnotized by the band moving in synchronicity and looking at each other with euphoric smiles as the music made them move together like a wave tossing about in the ocean. People climb on strangers shoulder one crowd being brave enough to stack 2 people on one mans shoulders making my first ever viewing of a live totem pole. The band played until the crowd could dance no more leaving them puffing and pleased as they waved their good byes and walked off stage.

Pulp

I have to conclude with Pulp and if the english language was not necessary for writing articles I would simple write AAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHH WOOOOOOOOOO HHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! However I am sure that people want to read words and so I will try and best describe what it is like to see the reforming of one of Britain’s best bands right in front of your eyes. Jarvis Cocker took to the stage with silvery hair, his signature black rimmed glasses and began to weave a story like he was narrating a play to the thousands of fans muddling around to hear the quirky tunes of Pulp. The performance was more than captivating and the mania built like the pressure in a pre-shaken soda can that was about to be opened. The played hit after hit after hit as Jarvis danced around stage like he was 18 shaking his bon bon better the Rick Martin ever could.  This was what I waited for, the musical event of the year and as the band concluded their set with Common People I revert back to a 15 year girl and screamed loud enough that I was unable to talk for the next 3 days.

Splendour is one of Australia’s biggest music events and with a line up like 2011’s Splendour you can easily see why. All I can do is hold my breath for next years line up and hope to recover my voice by that time.

The crisp autumn afternoon that began Groovin' the Moo Bendigo had the odd feeling that rain could cause the whole event to go pear shaped; however the sun came out fortuitously, and the music that followed combined to make it a most enjoyable day.

The Redcoats early set of psychedelic- stoner rock started the day off perfectly- these local lads have been playing some blistering sets of late, and it would be a fair to say a later afternoon slot would definitely have suited the boys better. They were followed closely by the Jezabels, with Hayley Mary's beautiful and distinct vocal stylings;  the day was off to a good start.

My personal highlight for the day came very early, with an irreverent and quirky set from Darwin Deez. Interspersing choreographed dance breaks, heavy rock interludes, and a bit of Enya (orinoco flow went down a treat), his brand of quirky pop tunes had all in awe.  Datarock followed with electro- classics like Give it Up and Fa-fa-fa, signature red tracksuits and video projections of themselves in tow, then it was off for my first foray into the "Moolin Rouge" tent to catch The Go! Team. Ninja's energy (and out of control abs) took the show, with classic tunes like Ladyflash (from Thunder Lightning Strike), as well as T.O.R.N.A.D.O (from the new album Rolling Blackouts) proving to much incitement not to dance.

Veterans House of Pain gave us a lesson in all things hip-hop, then Architecture in Helsinki brought their infectious pop stylings, wowing all to a selection of tunes from their new album, as well as hits like Do the Whirlwind and Heart it Races. Back out on the Main stage,  The Drums played with aplomb; Jonathan Pierce's is a man of  style, whipping the crowd into a frenzy with a definite nod to the several classic post- punk bands.

I must admit I only got to see the first half of Art vs Science . Having seen them many a time, it was great to see the crowd lose control of their nether regions for these Sydney gentlemen. When the mania got a little too much, I ducked out to catch the end of Gotye- Wally's distinctive voice, meticulous samples and ethereal tunes perfect for the beautiful sunset to roll in.

The Wombats, though I am a massive fan, didn't quite pull off as good a set as I had hoped for, but this didn't matter as the energy when classic songs like Moving to New York, and Let's Dance to Joy Division took an average show to a likeable place. Cut Copy closed the festival and there is no more really to say- the deft and accomplished Melbourne band make great music and deliver an awesome show- a perfect way to end an entertaining day.

Words : Peter Lubulwa

With a weekend ahead that predicted some lousy weather it was good to the pristine surrounding of meredith hold off to produce a superb weekend of artists.
After setting up camp and wandering the grounds I heading to the supernatural amphitheatre to see the Cosmic Psychos.

Having seen them in the past it was great to revisit some old school kick ass punk rock. The heavy bass driven set was welcomed by most of the older punters but hopefully turned a few of the youngsters to delve into there back catalogue which started off my weekend in a good stead.

Next up was an artist I was very much keen to see in Justin Townes Earle.
His country bluegrass style was definitely suited to the sunny surroundings. I found it also amazing how a self confessed cold hearted hopeless romantic just consistently broke hearts with the notion of love thats life long. Justin Townes Earle has carved out his own reputation over the years and with such a legendary father he sure does have the talent to match.

I moved up towards the back of the hill instead of the front to witness true legends of music. Os Mutantes have been around for a long time and after the performance they put on today there fan base is sure to expand but I feel that there fan base is sure to expand. I sat down and just watched in joy as the Brazilian troop pleased the masses. Dancing along to a nice back catalogue surely left the rest of the bands coming up a little nervous.

The Hold Steady were up to the challenge rocking the stage and leaving the audience trembling with awe. Playing all the past punk rock gems they produced a great show full of energy, charisma and solid gold making it hard for the crowd not to warm up to them. 'Stuck between stations' and 'chips ahoy' got some great sing-a-longs as did 'sequester in memphis' but it all was saved for ' your little hood rat friend'. This was a truly an enjoyable set for the Brooklyn band.
Aussie rock n' roll then graced the stage, Victorian locals drinking VB Must be Airbourne! Fist pumping rock towards the later part of the night kind of made me giggle, but in a good way. I really didn't have to think to heavily about the set , more put my hand in the air shake my head relentlessly to the songs of homegrown Aussie rock.

For the headlining slot it was potentially a tall ask for a band with only a fresh debut record but in Wavves the seemed to be no less daunted but still a little nervy at first. This all subsided by the second song when the first single 'king of the beach' was thrown out to the cooler air.
'idiot' and the closer 'post acid' were big draw cards but for me, possibly some cosmic psycho's fans, the highlight was the Black Flag cover in 'nervous breakdown'.. I think once I heard that I was content with sleep
Thus ending day 1 of my first golden plains experience.

After a slightly uncomfortable sleep on the ground sans sleeping bag or any kind of mattress I awoke to the sun poking me to get up to watch the Middle East. These Brisbane kids have written some dreamy songs and they pulled no punches in delivering them to the crowd.
It is easy to see why this band has gone from strength to strength with songs like 'jesus came to my birthday party' and 'the darkest side'.
I listened to the Besnard Lakes from afar in the amphitheatre which worked as well as if I had been at the front. Deeper tracks were a staple in this set that went from high pitches to low rumbles followed but what looked like thousands of butterflies before the heavens only slightly
opened..
Luckily the rains had past, my guess was they did not want to mess with Pulled Apart by Horses. These lads from Leeds were pure energetic rock n' roll watching them was like crossing The Helicopters with The Bronx with The Supersuckers.. Not saying they are as good as all 3 combined but there is definitely elements of all of them in there influences, and that is great thing. 'High fives & swan dives' prompted the band to get you to high five your nearest neighbour and 'back to the fuck yeah' put a lot of energy back into the crowd. Easily the most aggressive band of the weekend and probably my highlight.

Best Coast then came into the fold and i think the whole crowd blushed when the cute Bethany came up to mic and said simply 'hello' This group , much like her boyfriends band have only there debut record but being as great as it is you can hear they still enjoy playing it.
Second track in and they play out 'crazy for you' to the crowds dancing delight. The rest of the set went out as smoothly as her vocals and once ' boyfriend' was delivered i dare say a few girls in the crowd grabbed the partners tightly..

Next up on my wish list was a band I was really looking forward to, Belle & Sebastian. This giant Scottish band played there set so well it just seem to get better and better with each song. Stuart Murdoch moved his way up and down the stage and to the front row and into the crowd
at one point to truly show that there live presence if a sight to behold. At one stage he even demanded that 2 girls standing on shoulders at the back of the crowd come forward so he could dance with them.

As impressive as Wavves cover was the previous night, Belle & Sebastian managed to top that. Mr Murdoch announced they were about to play a kinks song, with the opening chords of 'you really got me' teasing the crowd before jumping into the appropriately title 'Victoria'. Fittingly once the word Australia was referenced in the song he pulled out an Australian flag and waved it vigorously to rampant cheers.

Architecture in Helsinki are an amazing live band full of good vibes and party times and after a quite long absence from the live stage they returned to what felt like a whole new set of songs we will all be hearing very soon on the radio. They matched there attire to the styles of
songs as Cameron and Kelly went back and forth in nice suits and sparkly clothes. It was a pure pop fiesta and a nice taste tester for the impending record.

Hawkwind were my last band of the weekend and knowing somewhat of them and there history it was more a curiosity factor to watch. Large black robed dancers stood centre stage with glowing green fingers made me feel like the guys have not lost any of there 70's psychedelia. With a back catalogue ranging from some form of success to pure acid blues rock it was more of an experimental set

Golden Plains was a truly great festival. Everything about the set up made me want to shake all the hands of everyone involved.

Ian R. Laidlaw

Dragging yourself out of the house on a Tuesday night can sometimes feel like a bit of hard work, but New York veteran's Les Savy Fav offer a damn good cause to do so, and will leave the rest of your week feeling like a perpetual drag.

The two band line up was kicked off nicely by Sydney band The Straight Arrows. The band's energetic mix of garage rock and 70's punk was vigorously accompanied by their awkward puppetesque bopping, out of tune guitars and tourette like outbursts. A band to keep a look out for on your local music circuit.

After eyeing out a rather nonchalant looking Tim Harrington (lead singer, Les Savy Fav) during The Straight Arrows set, I wondered if the reputation that preceded the band may be a tad exaggerated. Well, it wasn't. Acting as somewhat of a prelude to the set, drummer Harrison Haynes gave Harrington a barber style trim to his heavily balding head, and as the first chords rang out, Harrington tested his own skills with the scissors on the unfortunate, but grateful fans of the front row.

The show ensued with a fervent pace. Boasting loud melodic guitars, a banging rhythm section and a grateful audience all too keen to welcome Harrington's sweating semi-naked body into the crowd, where he spent more time than on stage.

Here's a band that is the antithesis of the pretentious drivel seen coming from so many groups these days. A band nested in creating chaos, with great songs and a sole purpose in their midst...fun! With a post punk edginess, slightly smoothed with melodic pop sensibilities, the nucleus of Les Savy Fav is ultimately their live show. Roaring through blinding versions of 'Who Rocks the Party', 'Let's get out of Here' and 'The Equestrian', the band endears themselves effortlessly, leaving the bouncers looking extremely bemused and the audience united in craving more.

Les Savy Fav have a live show reputation that they match with a raucous enthusiasm. Tim Harrington's onstage antics would probably even give Jello Biafra a touch of stage fright. At one point, clad in gaffer tape he suggests that we not talk about what we have seen tonight. Ironically, this is what most patrons will be doing for months to come.

Les Savy Fav's fifth studio album 'Root For Ruin' was released in August 2010 and is now available on itunes.


Words: Michael Seddon.
Photos: Ian Laidlaw

There is always a lull after the Splendour storm, the time period it takes for hang overs to subside, highs to evaporate and the corporate cage to reclaim its hold.
It is with great regret that I quote the words Splendour in the Grass has passed for 2010 and phrases like I will met you at ibeefa have little to no use in the outside world.

Splendour 2010 was the beginning of something huge in Australian music history, any tom, dick or harry could see that the line up was enough to blow the socks off any music lover country wide, with acts like The Strokes, The Pixies and Mumford and Sons, but it was what Splendour organisers were trying to achieve with this festival which was the most intriguing.
 
Splendour in the Grass is making the slow move to mimicking international festivals like Glastonbury by introducing forums, an art program called Splendid and meditation into the already choka block weekend. The forums gave music fanatics a chance to voice their opinion on the banning of live music, where the music industry is heading and the opportunity to listen to the creators of Splendour, Will Anderson and other esteemed guest discuss what music really means to them.

Splendid show cased art from artist around Australia who participated in a year long program of collaboration to create massive displays of public art that were constructed and in various locations around the Woodford site. The artwork that stood out the most was the giant peace sign that was erected in the centre of the show grounds.

The music erupted all over the place with punters manically darting from tent to tent in order to capture one or two songs from all their favourite bands.  My pick of the weekend were simple Mumford and Son who created mayhem during their song Little Lion Man as the crowd wet their pants and turned hillbilly, grabbing each other by the shoulders slapping their knees and singing along with the weird fusion of indie country folk.

This crazed like behaviour was exhibited for The Strokes as punters trampled each other with kids chucking themselves over fences and trying to bolt past security guards who blocked off the entrance due to the hungry vulture attitude of the crowd. The crowd circled the guards like a pack of wolfs waiting of their prey to get tried and give into their power which they eventually did and allowed the hungry crowd access to their prey.

The Laura Marling gig was reminiscent of my time in and all girls school; pig like squeals reigned supreme as girls connected by singing along and hugging each other. The set seemed to pass to quickly as the Laura whizzed through all her favourites like Night Terrors and My, Manic and I it was at this gig where you had the time to take a breath out look across the room and know that you were sharing this elated feeling with almost everyone in the room.
Australian standouts were Tim and Jean who drew me into their early morning set. Coaxing me away from my heavily planned schedule to dance to the free loving, 80s inspired pop magic.

My favourite non-act was Richard Ashcroft who chucked a high-school dummy spit- after playing only a few songs and pissing of the few fans the dedicatedly trekked away from the Pixies to see him play live.

Splendour still treacles through my veins as I look dubiously at my ever-growing pile of filing and try desperately to adjust back to the real world. Why would you want to come home when you have been through the doors of a musical Narnia as I suite up every day there is always a hand twitch toward the thongs and the hot shorts as I mentally cross off another day till splendour 2011

WORDS: Eva Lubulwa
PHOTOS: Emelia Garrard

The name Rat vs Possum is a bit of misnomer but those arriving expecting cage fighting, razor blades and sneering Russians will undoubtedly have found their $7 better spent at the Tote, as local roustabouts Rat vs Possum take liberties with the fossil record and rewrote high school textbooks with their Creationist rocknroll.

Answering the too-long unasked question: what if hipsters had been the pioneering inhabitants of Fitzroy, local fixed gear folk fill out the frat-house for this: the circle-jerk to end all circle jerks.

Life long arguments over the best vegan crepes in Northcote are brought to hushed whispers, and dare I say irrelevance, as the stage gives way to dollar-store psychedelics and burlesquettes swathed in a lifetime supply of Teac D90 tape - this is my dream, this is my nightmare.

Sonic Youth guitars, looped indigenous chanting, booming acoustic percussion - the sounds of Armageddon and the Go Team gone native? Yothu y-Indie perchance?

The Fitzroyalty take their glitterati seriously smothering the love-in in their be-jeweled ejaculations between half-speed flurries of psyche-Indie and accusatory glances at the breeders here present yet to be seduced by a stranger.

But the love is reciprocated. Swelling loops. Pounding toms. Orgiastic female butchers. We are within whiskers of our own tantric crescendos - but all too  soon the cannons pop and we are showered in glitter and guilt, and a room full of friends is again a room full of strangers.

Words: Daniel Gill

One Afternoon With Rosie Catalano

Towards the end of last year, I re-connected with a girl I had met an underground film festival (okay, it was Kino Kabaret), Rosie Catalano.  One of her songs, Annabel Lee was being forged into a music video clip.  At the time, I thought, this has to be Katy Steele.  To my embarrassment, it was actually Rosie with her guitar.

I coaxed her into a live video interview at Jubilee Park, on a sweltering 40 degree day. I was sedated from previous interviews and incessant driving, but hey I made it work somehow.  She wanted some footage for her Myspace (www.myspace.com/ rosie catalano) and new track, 'My Secrets', which she shares, "My Dad often says that my sister wears her heart on her sleeve, which is true... " This is how the song blossomed into a really divine acoustic track, that is quite sad sounding and matches the undercurrent of this line.  It is quite plain from this that she creates music by writing the lyrics first.

Last year, Rosie focussed largely on putting together enough material together, "a nest egg", she cleverly says.  So that she could go out, and show everyone her stuff.  Aside from touring, Rosie also put her song, 'Where Did I Go Wrong?' into a Little Birdy competition, "and miraculously I won," she gleams.

From the behind the scenes footage on her Myspace, it looks like it was a really positive experience.  She is chatting away, jamming and more importantly getting one of her tracks produced professionally.  Its really quite catchy, if I have to be honest and Rosie shares, "It was one of the easiest songs I have ever written."  So it sounds to me that Rosie Catalanos greatness is meant to be.

What Do You Think? Have a listen, watch and ponder at http://www.myspace.com/rosiecatalano

Words : Jenny Meagher

A Casual End Mile Speaks Up

Further to the massive world of Folk Music, Madelaine Lucas has jumbled the letters of her name to be, A Casual End Mile.  It is more than her scrabble-like ability though that has her track, 'Fox & A Prayer' receiving airplay on Sydney FBi radio.  I have seen her three times now, and more recently at her Ruby Rabbit gig she performed with electric guitar.  Her music is soothing, romantic and very relaxing.  How do I know? I have almost fallen asleep listening to it.  This is what she had to say

How did you become involved in and inspired to create music?

I have thought about this hard, and I honestly dont know. The typical answer I guess - I grew up around music, and loved some of it so much it became such a big part of the person I was becoming that making my own music was the natural thing to do. The more I listened, the more I learned and became inspired.

The thing that made me really focus on it this year more than ever was a combination of having amazingly supportive friends and family who insisted I play live (and I cracked under the pressure), and then becoming restless and bored with other things in life so that writing songs became my silver lining for all those bad days. Once I started writing songs and realised other people actually appreciated it, I fell in love with the whole thing. Sometimes its a love/hate relationship, but music has my heart and soul (for better or for worse).

 I see on your Myspace, your father is your producer. What influence
has he had on your music? What is his background?

Dad has played in bands for over thirty years, including the somewhat legendary cult punk band called X. I often joke that folk music was my own teenage rebellion, as on the surface these two genres seem so different.However, his music and the kind of creative morals behind it have definitely influenced me. Growing up around the DIY music mentality (which was really born from punk music), I have always believed in making music that is honest in content and production, and I  think these beliefs are intrinsic to my own lo-fi sound. I like songs that have a rawness to them, even if it means theyre not polished perfect, I feel like its the little nuances that make it all human, and thats relevant both to punk and country-folk music I think. Dad has only just started producing - I think I was his second project. Weve only worked together for one session, and it was my first time in a real studio (I used to record dodgy demos in my bedroom.) It was definitely the best learning experience, and because there is so much trust between us as father and daughter I didnt have to worry about misunderstandings or different motives. It could all just be very comfortable.


What is the greatest achievement of your musical career so far?

As an independent musician, every little step forward seems like a huge victory, so its hard to single something out.Really this whole year has felt like a big achievement - I finally started playing live and it got a much better reaction than I ever expected, I have recorded in a real studio, played with a bunch of inspiring and unique artists.  Its all related to being brave enough to take music out of my bedroom, and put it before people.  I have to say, silly as it may sound, I was pretty excited the first time (and still am any time it happens) a friend told me they heard me on the radio, without me even knowing about it!


What is your musical fantasy?

Being in the position to work & tour with other bands/musicians that inspire me and who I respect, and able to stay inspired to make beautiful records as I desire for years and years.

Is there any musician or band that has influenced your music?

I have been definitely by a variety of musicians - from Bob Dylan and Patsy Cline to Cat Power and Pavement and Mazzy Star. Honest music with poetic lyrics and melodies, and those elements can be found in a variety of genres.

Relax and unwind with A Casual End Mile @ http://www.myspace.com/madelainelucas

Words: Jenny Meagher

JONSI, also known as Jonthor Birgisson, is coming down under this winter for his worldwide tour.  Some of you might know him as the lead singer or Icelandic Shoegaze outfit, Sigur Ros, who announced their hiatus at the beginning of the year to work on solo projects. 

Prior to releasing current album, ''Go'', JONSI collaborated with boyfriend Alex to create a more ambient (and less vocal) album ''Riceboy Sleeps''.  It would seem Birgisson has made a dashing race into his solo career. 

It is pretty surprising to me as an already avid fan of Sigur Ros, that JONSI's latest album ''Go'' is even better than my favourite tracks from Sigur Ros, like 'Glosoli', "Hoppipolla'', and "Svefn-g-englar''.  ''Go'' presents the same intricate instrumental scores, that have already featured in Australian feature, The Boys Are Back. 

While JONSI's work transfers that same lovely built tension fans might expect, there is also a more cheerful and hopeful ricochet, which can provoke smiles when least expected.  (I am talking about peak hour traffic here). 

I feel enriched as an individual to have been so impacted by JONSI's talent and freakishly delicious compositions.  Stand out tracks are ''Go Do'', "Boy Lilikoi", and ''Animal Arithematic''. 

Be sure to catch him on his up and coming tour.  If you are one of the lucky few going to Splendour in The Grass this year at Woodford in QLD, then you can catch him on August 1.    

Otherwise he will be performing in Sydney @ The Enmore Theatre on August 2, and in Melbourne @ The Palace Theatre on August 4.    

Splendour in The Grass is sold out, but the side-shows in Sydney & Melbourne are still selling through Ticketek

WORDS: JENNY MEAGHER

The voice on the other end of the phone sounds so different to the vocalist on the debut Gossling EP, If You Cant Whistle. Albeit her success, Gossling, also known as Helen Croome, is far from an inflated indie-rock star; instead she is a very softly and sweetly spoken 20-something with a touch of gumption.

In other interviews Helen has been described as pretty and charming and whilst talking to her I found all these things and more. In fact, Helen is a gifted woman with a very empathic imagination. Her success has given her ample airplay but even then she is still surprised and tends to get quite nervous for some reason when she listens to Gossling tracks live on air.  I can hear her smile on the other end of the line and slowly muse, in fact, I hear myself on the radio and think Wow! Why me? Its absolutely huge and pretty exciting.

What better way to express Helen's talents but through music? She tells me of her childhood and how music has always played a part of her life, no matter how small, I learnt piano in grade three and had keyboard lessons in grade 9 and now, she finally could not escape its siren-like call. Music ultimately has taken over her life, her studies and career. It crept over slowly when she started university where instead of Psychology and Sociology which Helen originally chose, I went on to do Music at university I studied and just finished my Bachelor in composition and film scoring. Music ultimately chose Helen it was fate. Helen smirks, when she recalls, In the beginning I discovered that I wasn't doing so well at uni because I was working on my music instead of my essays. I decided to switch to music. The choice was easy and a simple decision. It was a very sensible and smart decision, she then says, rather seriously.

From then on, taking like a duck to water, finally free of social shackles; the real journey for Gossling began, when Helen started a fanatical spree of creating music until a debut EP was recorded. Entitled If You Cant Whistle the record came out earlier this year. I wrote all of the string arrangements and composed all of the music. For these recordings I fell in love with the range of strings and incorporate a lot of string samples including cello into the live music.

Based in the self-crowned music capital of Australia, Melbourne, Helen tells of the daunting nature of the industry and how her mindset towards taking on the challenge of being a musician has changed. As a singer-songwriter its hard for anyone to beak into the industry. There are so many singer-songwriters out there. Many of them play the same gigs over and over again. You start asking yourself where and how am I going to stand out? After a while you realise that it doesn't matter that you're only one of many. In fact, instead of considering the others out there my competition, I feel inspired by them.

Having garnered hyper attention in Australia and the debut EP trumping high rotation at Triple J, where countless new fans jump on the I-Love-the-Single-Days-Are-Over bandwagon each day, Gossling has achieved mammoth loads in a very short amount of time. Helen has even shared a stage with famous electronic music duo, Lamb, being the support act for Lamb was amazing, she gushes, we were performing at The Prince of Wales and I didn't really expect that many people would have come in so early. It was a testament to Lamb fans being real music lovers. There were about nine hundred faces staring back at me. It was an experience of a lifetime.  I felt a lot of love at the audience. Louise Rose was absolutely stunning on stage and the band was really supportive towards me.

Gossling is a renegade against all this post-modern proliferation of pish-posh which cruxs on find your own meaning in my work. Helen is a testament to musicians and artists who try to express and relate to the phenomenon of the Human Condition. I find it interesting listening to artists when you can really sense them through their songs; they give their music an intentional meaning and don't leave them as a blank canvas. Uniqueness is something hard to come by these days and even Helen sighs when she says, People say that my voice is different, and I guess I should take that as a compliment but Ive been compared to Joanna Newsom quite a lot. I don't draw much of an influence from her because she likes to create music that is a blank canvas.

Quite rightly, the singer-songwriter is so much more than just another Newsom. Displaying emotional dexterity and exploring human relationships Helen finds the art in musicality both lyrically and sonically. My favourite songs from the EP include Trailed and He Knows My Love. Trails both songs I would consider to be the most emotional songs on the record. He Knows My Love is about a father-son relationship. A couple of years ago a guy on the train I used to catch to university got killed and left behind a 5-month-old baby. The song is about the baby getting to know his dad and developing a relationship with him somehow even though hes not alive. Days Are Over is about how one day I realised I'm not in high school anymore and that the world is such a large place.

Having just played in Canberra supporting a star-studded line-up, which included Whitley and the Whitlams, Helen is ready to take Gossling to a new level. Ive had my bit of down time and at the moment Im having a writing spurt. This spurt will spew forth some more lavish and poignant music, with the release of Gosslings second EP that Helen hopes will come out in May. Helen will then promote this record with an East-Coast tour that may even include Adelaide. Newsom beware, Australia has its own take on post-modern; that is the return of sweet, sweet lyrics and sounds of emotional expression.

Words: Shailla Van Raad

After serenading crowds internationally, Australia's newest songstress returns home. Ancient mythology teaches us that Sirens used their hypnotic voices to lure in crowds; the same effect is taken upon by the masses that flock to see Bertie Blackman perform. As she opens her mouth your soul slowly drifts away, and for a short period you are privileged to hear what real music is supposed to sound like, the way any god would have wanted it too.

Daughter of famous artist Charles Blackman, Bertie was fortunate enough to constantly be surrounded by artistic beings.   When Bertie turned 16 she transformed her love of music into a hobby, playing local gigs and performing at open mic nights. Putting her all into what she did, the young talent moved up the ranks quite rapidly playing with a host of other friends and local artists in intimate local gigs.

 If you focus your everything on something, you will attract people into your life that will help you achieve what it is you set out to do.

Today the more-than-talented musician is belting out her own tunes, to crowds that come to see her all around the world. Having recently concluded a successful six-week tour in England Bertie is back on home soil to show her Australian fans just why she is one of our favourites.

While Headway (2004) may have given Bertie her breakthrough as an artist, and Black(2006) allowed her tracks to receive radio play it is her third album Secrets and Lies(2009) that truly allowed her listeners to experience the true extension of what Bertieis available to do. With tracks like Thump, Birds of Prey and her new hit Peek-A-Boothe young singer is securing her position as one of the best international acts to ever come out of Australia.

Berties upcoming tour with British band La Roux is a testament to her strength as an artist. Playing three shows in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth with the British superstars will allow more people to be able to see just why this lady has just received a nomination for an AMP award.

If you only see one live act in your life make sure its this lady, she is the epitome of why people fight so hard to keep live music accessible to the public. Check out her music online at www.bertieblackman.com, or better yet get yourself down to a record store to purchase Secrets and Lies, Berties current album, and make sure to book yourself some time to get to know Australias very own young talent Bertie Blackman, its the best favour you will do for yourself all year.

Peace

Jamie

Words: Jamie Azzopardi

Future music festival was scheduled in, a day of beats, warm weather and swarms of fluoro tank top wearing, Rayban owning, Melbourne-shuffle dancing kids running around getting their fill of the best dance beats to hit the country and world.

DJs were primed, the weather looked to be holding out and the crowd in their excitement were filled with the mania of a wild boar pre-feed.

The early acts like Operator Please, Mat Zo and Tim and Jean were lucky enough to playing the last rays of sunshine way.  The highlight of the day would have to be Spank Rock who amazed the crowd, encouraging convulsions and cheers that almost deafened the music. During their set the Spank Rock crew asked up people I re-phase, chicks from the crowd to do what chicks usually do, dance like they are in a Fifty Cent video clip all while hoping that it would be there bumping and grinding that would land them access to the artist after their set was completed. One of the girl from the crowd however ripped a massive tear in this firmly ingrained theory of mine. She got up on stage nearly swoon with excitement asked to sing a verse and nailed it word for word, hand gestures and all. The crowd went mental as she bounced and bobbed around the stage performing like a pro.

Harris Robotis followed after, riling up the crowd for the UK band Does It Offend You Yeah? The crowd squirmed and jiggled to each beat dropped like a baby being poked at and by the time his set ended the crowd was so thick I could only see the stage the a lattice of armpits and bleach blond hair dos.

The UK band Does It Offend You Yeah? rocked on stage claiming that they we willing to die an electrical death in order to play for their Australian fans. However one song in the stage had to be closed down due to safety regulation which started a riot and a tirade of water bottles chucked at organisers as the half drunk crowds took on the anger of an English football mob.

Our only option was to give up and watch the likes of Franz Ferdinand who were and unlikely band to play at such a festival and their guitar based tunes seemed like a watered down option in comparison to the heavy beats and computer based rhythms of previous acts.

Fearing pneumonia and influenza many of the weak, not so dedicated and the drenched headed home. Others left due to bands being canceled and the big brother like warning on all the main screens. Though most punters packed trams at 8pm some of the more dedicated passengers jumped back off with the news that the party would continue and that it did.

Future music was worth the two week cold I have been suffering since the event. For any more information on what the future entertainment crew are putting on in terms of dance web stalk them at: http://www.futureentertainment.com.au

Words: Eva Lubulwa

The Future Music Festival after-party goes Above & Beyond !

Rain was falling, thunder brewing but fans of live music in Melbourne denied the weather of ruining their day, and instead embraced the wet and muddy grounds of Flemington Racecourse to hear their favourite artists play. After all was said and done, and the Future Music Festival was finished for yet another year, the masses of people were ready to take to the streets of Melbourne and party on. Future Entertainment ran two after-parties but for Trance lovers the place to be was Billboard The Venue.

British superstars Jono Grant & Paavo Siljamäki of Above & Beyond teamed up with Finlands Janne Mansnerus of Super 8 & Tab to grace the stage at Billboard. The vast venue was jam packed from wall to wall with adoring fans of trance who were ready to party.

Having played numerous festivals, concerts and parties worldwide the trio of musicians seemed more than experienced to relay how Future Music weighed up against the international festivals. Playing at Future Music Festival is better than playing at any other festival in the world Janne said, with Jono and Paavo agreeing  and playing at Billboard is a nice way to end our tour in Melbourne.

Janne alludes to some of the upcoming ventures that Super 8 & Tab will take pending the end of the Future Music Festival tour. A debut CD as well as new mixes, more festivals and concerts seem to be on the way!!!

 Jamie

Words: Jamie Azzopardi and Eva Lubulwa

Photos: Eva Lubulwa

Marina and the Diamonds debut album The Family Jewels is the first studio release from welsh born Marina Lambrini Diamandis.

The Family Jewels is quirky, cute, funny and all those other things you would expect to find in a 5 year-olds party lolly bag. This album is one that you listen to in the car on the way to a huge night out or  when dancing alone in you living room (don't act like you don't do it!!). The songs are catchy and unique and as a result have gained mass popularity world wide resulting in the album being whored out on the radio a couple of times a day. The Family Jewels posses a refreshing style of pop. Marinas voice waivers from sweet to deep and rough which brings a nice change to the simple straight pop songs that have been forced fed to our ears time and time again. Her album is like a choose your own adventure fantasy novel introducing weird sounds and beats in every hidden corner.

I will be honest not every song is a winner but it has a few killer songs which carry the album through. Song like Mowglis Road, her new single I Am Not a Robot and Obsessions are the swan songs of this album.

The album The Family Jewels is available on itunes and in all respectable music stores. If you want to inspect the diamonds before you buy them head to her Myspace page: www.myspace.com/marinaandthediamonds

Mine for Marina and the Diamonds debut album The Family Jewels. This album is worth possessing.

Words: Eva Lubulwa

MM9 who describe themselves as an electro rock band, are grungy and fresh  and after what seems like an eon of Preset mimic bands MM9 finally offers something new, different and exciting to a once tired genre. I was lucky enough to get time to talk to Kerry Foulke the guitarist from MM9. Kerry is what you would want from any musician destined for great things friendly, charismatic and hilarious.

Kerry lead me on the epic journey that MM9 has under gone in preparation for releasing their first LP, The Air Between.

  MM9 has a massive live sound and when listening to their LP you can only imagine it being performed in front of a crazily convulsing crowd of hundreds and has built their reputation from this touring endlessly for the past 2 years. The band have just embarked on their nation wide LP tour starting in Sydney at the Annadale Hotel, which Kerry likens to playing in their own backyard. The Annandale sold out faster than a Carlton grand final at ethaid stadium and MM9 felt privileged to start the tour in such a comfortable arena. The four piece will now take their sound to the street touring Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales and WA.

Going with the rule of what happens on tour ends up on Facebook I asked the question about who has the worst tour habits?, which funnily enough turned out to be Kerry, who is the self professed ball breaker of the group. I asked if any thing ever gets left behind and Kerry laughs, claiming they have left a lot of things in the last town or venue and jokes he is aware that if he cracks the whip to much he is in danger of being the next thing accidentally forgotten in some country town pub.

MM9 is the brainchild of Ben Ellingworth (drums) who came up with the sound and looked for musicians that could fulfill this legacy that he had running round in his mind. Slowly the band formed with each member bringing his own unique talents and musical prowess to the project. Kerry explained that all the band members have a wide range of musical influences, his being 60s rock and punk bands like NoFx and Future of the Left. You can hear the punk influence in the song Living Down which merges the electronic sound and the screw you type attitude of the Sex pistols. Kerry thinks that the amalgamation of all their musical influences that allows the band to have such a varying sound.

The LP, The Air Between was mixed by Mike Barbiero who has a CV longer than the Dead Sea scrolls, mixing bands and artist like Aretha Franklin, Mick Jagger, The Velvet Underground, and Metallica. Kerry explains that this process was and honour and somewhat daunting, finding it hard to believe that this celebrity mixer/ producer was interested in his opinion. Kerry explains the bands live sound has a certain air about it, pardon the pun, and MM9 aimed to recreate this live sound that their fans love so much and infuse that into the production values of their LP. I can safely say this mission was successfully accomplished

MM9 is a band worth experiencing with the killer songs Drama Drama and A Devil Once Said and since they are always on the road your chances of catching at a local gig are as about as likely as Paris Hilton making another sex tape.

If you don't get to see them live make a life investment and buy their LP, The Air Between, which is available now at JB Hi Fi.

More info @ http://www.myspace.com/mmnine

Words: Eva Lubulwa

The intense crowd of screaming Superfest fans that flocked into the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds last week didn't seem to mind that the show was a tad off schedule. They seemed content with the fact that they were about to be in the class of privileged people who were to experience the greatest international line-up of urban/ hip hop acts to ever tour Australia. The Supafest tour boasted the talents of local stars Chris Sorbello, DJ Nino Brown and MC Surreal, along with international super weight acts such as Eve, Jay Sean, Sean Paul, Pitbul, Kelly Rowland and Akon.

Australias own Chris Sorbello was first to hit the Melbourne stage with her electrifying performance. Dressed to impress both herself and her dancers provided a very Gaga-esque performance, revving the crowd up and setting the right tone for what was to follow the young diva.

The Philadelphia born rap sensation Eve was next on the microphone, letting the crowd know that she could indeed blow their minds. Opening with her cult hit Ive Got What You Need, followed by a medley of some of her best-known hits and ending the killer performance by dancing with some of her hyperventilating fans.

UK newcomer Jay Sean took to the stage with his charming good looks and as the girl behind me described, a to die for smile. Singing his chart topping hits Down and Do You Remember made the entire female portion of crowd fall in love with him.

Sean Pauls Imperial Blaze took control of the stage next, providing fans the chance to listen to world-class reggae music and raise the temperature at the same time.  Having just released his new album the Jamaican native finally gave his Australian fans the chance to see him perform both his classic hits such as Give Me The Light and Baby Boy and his new hits like We Be Burnin and new release Hold My Hand.

Latino superstar Pitbul followed and had fans of all ages amped and ready to shake their Culo as he so elegantly put it! Performing his new hit Shut It Down made fans loose control, and sing/dance in unison. Irrespective of age, race or gender this phenomenon of the urban world made you want to get up and dance. Performing hit tracks like Bojangles Remix and The Anthem.

The Bootylicious diva herself, Ms. Kelly Rowland made her crowd work while she was on stage, producing a sea of people who were in unison singing along to her acapella version of hit song Dilemma. Looking like a true fashionista as always the beautiful brunette took to the stage as if it was effortless, teaching fans that true born performers are still out there.

After three hours the crowd was finally ready to see one of the biggest superstars in urban entertainment today. Akon took to the stage with a bang. The opening of his show was spectacular, being greeted on stage by an array of fireworks. Pumping with energy and woo-ing the crowd until his very last seconds even decided to join the crowd for a song or two, jumping into the elegantly named Bling Ring.

Delighted fans left in the masses thrilled at what they had seen, and thanks to the six amazing performers who gave their all on stage, the event-goers left with the intent on returning to the great tour they had just witnessed. If this tour is anything to go buy, start cueing for next years Superfest tickets now! 

 

Peace

Jamie

Going to see a performer that one overtly admires can be somewhat anxiety inspiring, and to say that I was one false move and a half cough away from asphyxiation at the Regina Spektor concert would be an understatement.

Regina is an artist that one carries faithfully into their emotional life both painful and joyous. There is a always that slight fear that when seeing this calibre of artist perform live that they will be out right shocking or un-inspiring which will then translate and transpose on to all those intimate moments so sacredly shared.  Hence something that you once thought was as inspiriting as Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind now has the backing sound track of a Disney inspired film.

Not saying that there isnt a time and a place for High School Musical I am just stating that it shouldnt be married to the mental images that occur when you relive the break up of your seven-year relationship or the birth of your first child.

I sat with a nervous twitch as my eyes scanned the crowd of indie kids, lovers and feminist crusaders packed into the grand interior of the Palais theatre.

And as silence broke over the obedient audience I drew in a sharp breath and waited.

Regina took to the stage dressed in a onesy, began to sing and in one moment took the ability to speak or scream away from the crowd. It is amazing to see an artist that convinces you that mastering is a skill that is highly over rated in the music industry. Regina sounded flawless, each lyric like her radio sound, each note completely married to the one that floated out of my disc man on the long walks between my job and my lounge room.

And here lies the second pit fall in seeing someone that you are so familiar with their ability to surprise you becomes minimal as you are able to recite each lyric word for word and hum each note to the melody perfectly (well almost perfectly) and just as I thought it was time to close my eyes and forget that there was a concert around me Regina would mix it up adding quirky little sections to a well known repertoire.

The amazing thing about seeing Regina Spektor live was the insight to the personality behind each song creation.

All of a sudden her characters come to life in the way only she could envisioned them. Regina took us on a journey into her thought patterns, which weaved and excited the audience like an adventure filled fantasy novel.  Regina played songs from her new album Far

And well love favourites from her past albums Begin to Hope and Soviet Kitsch.

The songs that struck a chord were Radio, Two Birds On A Wire, Samson her first single off the second album Laughing With.

Regina Spektor is one of those artists who are fresh, quirky and restore my faith in the music world where remakes and remixes reign supreme.

Regina Spektor is a monumental artist and though her sold out concerts make it impossible to go and see her live her second album Far is joyful. Get busy, get you hands on it which ever way you can.

Words: Eva Lubulwa

Bendigo's Groovin the Moo (GTM) had all the necessary components of a good music festival. Victoria's wet and dreary weather had, for at least one day, cleared away to reveal sunny, blue skies. The intoxicating allure of the time-honoured tradition of the music festival road trip, the modern day pilgrimage, promised a day of musical amusement. The reality was up settingly different.

Upon reaching Bendigo's city limits, the once picturesque small rural city was inundated with hoards of half-pissed hipster youths and country bumpkins draining their eleventh breakfast tinny lining up in their thousands, expectantly waiting to get inside. The stark contrast between alter-modern and Bogan was so odious I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. And yet I was determined to not let these minor details influence my impression of the festival or the music as a whole, not to mention the redeeming qualities of men in morph-suits, Wheres Wally and the entire cast of the Flintstones!

I can safely assume that for many festival-goers, the actually festivities didn't kick off until later in the afternoon due to the horrific lines. To their credit, GMT media did issue a formal apology to anyone who was stuck in those hellish queues.

The first act I was able to catch was the undeniably cute and talented Lisa Mitchell. Her normally dulcet vocals were, sadly, drowned out by the bass from the frustratingly close Moolin Rouge tent. Yet the crowd seemed pleased with Clean White Love and Oh! Hark!, but I noticed Coin Laundry was strangely omitted.

Just as the sun began to set, Tegan and Sara began their set to the reception of an overwhelmingly welcoming audience. The Canadian duo played a well-chosen selection of old and new, pleasing the crowd with The Con and their new single Alligator, and charmed the audience with their witty banter between songs.

Empire of the Sun was certainly interesting to watch. Filled to the brim with all the flamboyant and overweening pride one expects from the alternative rock/ heavenly dimensions exclusively inhabited by Luke Steele. I managed to tolerate a few songs, watching as Steele pranced about in a headdress gayer than Ricky Martin, until I could no longer stomach the egotism and moved on.

By a little past eight the undeniable highlight of the entire festival was upon us.  By merely looking at the amount of people squeezing into the main stage area, it appeared that Vampire Weekend was definitely on the must-see list of most festival punters. And they did not disappoint! Delivering a solid hour set of fun dance-pop, arguably Sting and the Police-esque, tunes from both old and new albums. Oxford Comma and Giving up the Gun both received an incredible response from the crowd, with each song soliciting a greater reaction from the audience.

Although it struggled to kick-off earlier in the day, Groovin the Moo had redeemed itself by the time the sun had set. With night-time obscuring most of the grounds, Groovin the Moo was transformed from a glorified Town Fair into something that kind of resembled a music festival.

Word: Kane Ord

Photos: Gemma Elliot

The Forum was covered in a thick fog of the breath of anticipation breathed in and out from the crowd patiently waiting for the arrival of the duo Tegan and Sara. This drawn out process pushed the temperature upward, unnervingly raising the mercury to numbers a little too warm for the cool pre-winter night.

The forum theatre was squishy, packed shoulder to shoulder with twenty one year old female socialist party members and surprisingly well-dressed boys.

When I could finally shift my thoughts and eyes away from the beautiful but unfortunately (for me anyway) gay men I was able to focus squarely on the stage ahead and looking over the crowd of five foot nothing avid Tegan and Sara fans, to the stage that lit up and the concert began.

The pop rock sensation Tegan and Sara are, for the uninformed, identical twins who hail from Canada and can best be described as North Americas answer to the Veronicas, with a slight political grunt.

The girls who are self-professed Australia lovers performed to a hungry mass of girls decked out in a uniform of black jeans, Ferrari red lips and Mary Janes. These girls were all under a spell and still of the age where showing euphoria is expectable, they beam to each other while singing every lyric precisely and bobbing their heads, most taking their obsession  I mean love to a new level, dicing their freshly dyed brown hair to mimic that of their beloved band.

Tegan and Sara held the crowd with their quirky stage banter likening the show to an awkward sober date and dedicating songs to Elizabeth Shue, who, for the benefit of those born in the 90s, was an 80s female teen heart throb. 

Tegan and Sara blasted through their songs, jumping from musical instruments to musical instrument, which had my head spinning with amazement. This process must have also amazed and somewhat baffled the another patron in front of me who was kindly guided by her friend with the retort  All the good songs are when they are both playing guitar.

And with this in mind I watched on. Tegan and Sara are a delight to see for both their musical talent and the effect that they have on their audience.

The rock duo have been gaining incredible popularity and air-play from all the radio stations that count, but this success hasnt come over night, having 6 other releases before the crowd pleaser Sainthood was released in 2009. The swan songs for the night were, Arrow, Hell and Alligator off the Sainthood album, though they did tried to sneak in some older songs, which could be indentified by the somewhat blank stares coming spreading over a once vocal crowd.

Tegan and Sara were here as part of the Groovin the Moo tour and performed the Melbourne and Sydney sideshows for all the people that missed their country shindigs.  If you missed them fear not!!! Tegan and Saras Album Sainthood is a worthy spend. All I can say is get your filthy mits on it any way you can!!!!

Kudos and Love crumbs

Words: Eva Lubulwa

Thursday night Toff In Town and people are piling in from the street to experience the long awaited revival of soul from the Sydney band Space Invadas. The crowd danced like the soles of their shoes were making contact with only oxygen, releasing the cares of the day just past and refusing to engage with the woes of tomorrow.

Standing to the back of the crowd I realise that I have spent too long attending gigs doused with nonchalant faces. The hip-hop crowd are an entity of a completely different kind and that energy charges to an fro from the crowd to the stage and back again. So as I took in the vibe, my mind shifted and I was able to unfold my arms, crack a smile and bob my head with the best of them.

Space Invadas walked on stage donning Star Wars hats and dapper suites a gimmick that was held for the first song and then wisely ditched for the rest of the evening. The hats that is, the suite to my great relief stay firmly attached to their beings.

The Sydney based band was a musical funk factory headed by Sydney producer Katalyst and lead singer Steve Spacek whose appearance oozed soul from every pore. Nothing says Motown more that a black man in a white suit and white rimed sunglasses. His voice carried with it a rough and tumble attitude. That sophisticated funk married to the sound of pain that skipped over every lyric and whispered stories greater than the lyrics into the audiences ears.

Space Invadas conducted the crowd to dance like string pulled puppets the audience moved and bounced in time with every beat. Space Invadas introduced the audience to their tune from the newly released album Soul:FI  including a special guest performance by the Australian Soul sister Jade Macrae who graced the stage to sing their joint single Life. But the woman who stole the show was introduced only as Fantine. Fantine belted out notes that carried the strength of Arthea Franklin and the joy of Diana Ross. She arrested the show chaining the audience to her presence as she transformed songs into feelings and feelings into an experience.

The stand out songs of the night were, Life, Original and Done It Again. Space Invadas new album Soul:FI is available on itunes and the soul crew will next be performing at the most coveted Splendor in the Grass festival. Souls back baby! Get on the groove train and let loose.

Words: Eva Lubulwa
Photo: James Carstensen

Friday night Old Bar had its regular vibe a bunch of dirty rockers piled into a small venue weaving between the cold, nicotine kissed beer garden to the dark and dingy inside to hear tunes that are growing from Melbourne's underground. This bar is the manure for all growing bands, and holds true to all that music should be, raw, passionate and intense. The Old Bar ushers Melbourne's great bands from the unknown to the limelight and Friday night was no exception to this rule.

I attended the Old Bar to experience These Hands Could Separate the Sky (THCSTS). The room filled quickly with eager ears, and the sea of conversation roared and babbled until the first note hit and then silence washed over the crowd. These Hands Could Separate the Sky took hold of the room taking each participant on a guitar fueled adventure into a world of eerie and beautiful tunes interjected with mammoth rock sounds.

THCSTS are a band hard to ignore introducing a welcome change to the current Melbourne music scene. The four-piece band have emerged out the Melbourne's grimy back streets and grunge cafes to bring a revival of the Post rock genre to Melbourne's thirsty ears.

The gig began with their epic guitar sound, which immediately transformed the male quota of the room into zombies as they swayed, nodded their heads in approval and amerced themselves with each sound the band offered them. The audience held intense facial expressions and as the last chord was play the crowd bounced back to life having animated discussions and analysing each piece with the thoroughness of a medical student over a freshly dissected cadaver.  This was a serious affair and after listening to the repertoire you could tell that these were serious musicians.

THCSTS are a band that have re- emerged from a some what tumultuous past with the introduction and departure of several band members, the latest being drummer Matthew Radford which saw the band embarking on a force hiatus mid last year. This break saw the introduction of their new drummer Thomas Rowley and a brand new energy injection into their already dynamite line up.

THCSTS have released 2 EPs the latest being Save Yourself with the beautiful song Summer Star.  THCSTS have recently opened for Europe super group Biffy Clyro and will be playing the old bar on 26th June 2010 with Nikko and the 10th July 2010. 

Come down and experience the adventure before you have to sell your kidney to see them play live.

 Words: Eva Lubulwa

The cue that jammed the entrance into the sold out Lisa Mitchell concert was ten bodies thick and speckled with conversations by uni students talking of holidays, exams and the finesses of art décor. When I thought all hope was lost I began to weave my way through the vodka fuelled crowd using a series of matrix like moves and fake toilet angst to escape the crowd and make my way into the only free standing balcony left in the Forum Theatre.

I was intrigued to find the population of attendance made up of hordes of boys who came, not as a weak sign of commitment to their girlfriends but because of their unsolicited love of Miss Mitchell. I seem to have the firm view that Lisa Mitchell is music to be blasted on bright sunny days in between the drive from the op shop to the hair dressers in some weird kind of indie Clueless remake but here they were swarms footy blokes on man dates waiting anxiously for Australia's bright eyed musical pixie to begin.

The stage was draped in white sheets, sprinkled with instruments and dainty touches like a small jewelery box placed on the lid of the concert piano.

Lisa Mitchell's 6-piece band filed on stage ready to begin and Lisa Mitchell quietly followed sitting behind the piano that protected her from her adoring fans and started to play.  The restless crowd calmed, tapping their feet and singing a long, being careful not to appear overly excited in fear that they would loose their status of cool in front of their nonchalant group of friends.

Part way through her set Lisa Mitchell took center stage, grabbed hold of her guitar and said hello.  In the introduction to her song Coin Laundry she pleaded with the crowd to refrain from throwing money at them while they performed on stage. The joke was accepted and Lisa rode on the crowds laughter to a place of quiet confidence as she hurdled into the next song. Lisa Mitchell is an artist that is growing up in the music industry; she has made the transformation from awkward teenager, to a quietly confident and graceful artist.

What did surprise me was that every time she opened her mouth there was a strong English accent that reined where the once nasal Australian twang used to be. I unwisely expressed this out loud and was bombarded by a frenzied Lisa Mitchell fan, who, informed me that she now lives in London with her sister and began to tell me her whole life story from childhood to fame I was only saved from the Mitchell biography by a sudden squeal of I love this song and the commencement of an out of tune rendition of Oh Hark coming from the mouth of said fan as she joyously sung along.

Lisa Mitchell ended the night with Neapolitan Dreams, which had the crowd in a roar, clapping and dancing with delight. Lisa Mitchell has just finished her headline tour which involved 2 sold out show in Melbourne and the Groovin the Moo festival. If you missed out on experiencing this little song bird live there is no need to cry, you can purchase her first studio album, Wonder which is available now from the apple the gives you everything itunes.

Words: Eva Lubulwa