Friday night saw Perth’s Amplifier Bar play host to a collection of local talent, the majority of whom I was seeing for the first time, for the launch of Our Man In Berlin’s video for latest single “Bled Dry” off forthcoming EP Paint The Lies.
I unfortunately missed a good portion of opening act Lanark’s set, due mostly to late opening doors, and the need to be effectively digitally fingerprinted (all seemed a bit excessive). What I did manage to catch was good, albeit a little heavier that I was expecting. They had a few technical difficulties on one song, but quickly overcame them, and powered through the remainder of their set.
Runner were up next with an impressive set. Sometimes having one vocalist just isn’t enough, so Runner have three. Not to mention two drummers; the end result being brilliant vocal harmonies and some vibrant and impressive instrumental breakdowns. It was a fun set, with the band having just as much fun on stage as the crowd were having off. They’d done enough about midway through their first song to capture my attention, and more than enough by the end to ensure I’d be hunting down their EP.
The Atlas Mountains, were up next, returning to the live scene after a bit of a hiatus to put on a masterful performance. Though it was a great set from the whole band, special mention must go to frontman Taylor Smith, who charmed and amused the crowd in equal measure, declaring that each song was “awesome”. He wasn’t lying either. Given they hadn’t performed together in a while, you’d forgive a little rustiness, but there was none. By the end of their first song they’d won over the audience, and no doubt by the end of their set, garnered a host of new fans.
Our Man In Berlin brought the evening to an entertaining close. They have a sound that is reminiscent of fellow locals The Panics, albeit a little more rough around the edges. The set was mostly made up of new tracks, some of which were still unfinished, with a chorus missing here and there. Though not completely finished or refined, these new tracks show plenty of promise and went down well with the crowd.
A definite highlight of any Our Man In Berlin set is the vocals, and this evening was no different, with some spot on harmonies that really give the songs that little extra something. Instrumentally the whole band had a great night, and the inclusion of the glockenspiel was a great move. All in all a great performance, and one that’s really got me looking forward to the forthcoming EP.
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