Despite a seasonal Sydney thunderstorm, the SXSW Sydney music action was still going strong at venues in the inner west.
Down at the UTS Underground, for the Rolling Stone Music takeover, Singaporean rapper Yung Raja was giving it all he had. The Rolling Stone House event ran for three nights, in partnership with American Apparel, who were giving away t-shirts, Cholula and Vinyl.com. LLA and Unified music curated the event, with bands such as Hockey Dad, Voice of Baceprot, Bakers Eddy and Mulga Bore Hard Rock making appearances. Upstairs at the Loft, NPCEDE, Taiwanese singer Andr and Loose Content were just some of the many bands featured.
Just a few blocks down along Broadway, The Landsdowne Hotel had two levels of music. Upstairs, the British Music Embassy showcased the UK bands shaking up Australia’s music scene. Yung D3MZ, Special Feelings, Elizabeth Drummond and The Lottery Winners joined PYRA, blending electronic beats with social activism. Future Art and Culture presented panels on technology, including the use of AI in music. Instrumental duo O. performed a uniquely mind-bending set with distorted drums and saxophone.
Downstairs at the Landsdowne, more traditional music included New Zealand soul singer Casual Healing and his band. He started with a traditional Maori greeting before introducing us to his conch shell. There was some group breathing exercises before launching into a cover of Bob Marley’s “Is This Love?” He followed with tracks from his latest album Driftwood, with personal songs of love, hopes and dreams.
Later in the evening, on a harder rock note, A. Swayze & The Ghosts gave a pumping set that had people virtually dancing on their chairs. Performing tracks from their upcoming LP, Let’s Live a Life Better Than This, and their 2020 release, Paid Salvation, it is easy to see why they have won several awards for best live act. The lead singer postures and preens in the manner of Mick Jagger, with an intense stage presence. Well worth catching when they tour their album later this year.
Next door to the Landsdowne, the recently opened Kyïv Social is a social enterprise kitchen, serving up Ukrainian food and cocktails while providing employment opportunities, practical experience and training for people seeking a brighter future. Some of the events at Kyiv Social included a Warner Music showcase, Sony Music female performances and an Indian Creatives Mixer.
One of the bands playing Friday evening was young Indonesian band Kathmandu (not related to the clothing brand). They showcased their album Golden Age with all the energy and pizzaz of a much more experienced band. The swagger and moves of lead singer Basil Sini have the hallmarks of Green Day. Expect to see them returning to Australia with a much bigger following.
Likewise, Brisbane four piece band Felony is another up-and-coming band that is making waves in the music scene. Their aggressive hard rock sound is tight and controlled. Lead singer reminded me of Adalita and is captivating to watch. A solid rock set that belies their youth.
One thing that struck me about exploring the music offering at SXSW Sydney was how cool the pubs in the inner west are. Knox Street Bar is hidden in the back streets, in Knox Street naturally, behind an unassuming garage door. Inside is an eclectic collection of bric-a-brac and a tiny stage in a side room.
New Zealand-born singer/songwriter Holly Cameron, aka YAHYAH, took to the stage in a giant tutu to dance and boogie with the audience. Finding the stage too restrictive, she bounced down among the crowd. You can tell that she is born to entertain.
The night ended up at the deliciously dirty underground Agincourt Alley bar with sonic architect Jerome Blazé. He bought his full band along to feature songs from his recent Living Room album release. Standout track is “Time Passing.” His sonic landscapes were a refreshing way to finish up the evening.
Check out the full SXSW Sydney music programme here.
Dedicated to helping creative people achieve their goals, SXSW Sydney is for anyone with a desire for discovery. With over 1,000 sessions and sessions, events and experiences, they’re creating a platform for countless connections that drive new ideas forward across Asia Pacific and beyond.
