The Friday night experience known as “Oh My!” at Home Nightclub has received an additional push of late, by way of the Rebel Rebel Band Room. Those playing along at home may remember Rebel Rebel as the run of nights that launched many years ago with Liars and Shout Out Louds (what a night!!)– and went on to house acts as loved as The Dears and Death Cab For Cutie.
While Home showed itself as a place that COULD act as a suitable venue for these artists, it never quite took off – the venue unable to shake off its “we’re a dance hall!” social reputation. But they have no plans to ignore the live music market – albeit putting us all in a small room (with a stunning view) without a bartender. It all felt a bit strange – almost inappropriate. Especially with a 12:30am start time. But kudos to the venue for supporting live music, in whatever capacity – in an environment that seems to usually do the opposite.
First up were Doc Holliday Takes The Shotgun, playing their first ever gig! Lead singer Jack Booker opened with a little ditty about Lassie, and then into a song of the same name. The set was filed with tongue and cheek humour, evil laughs and plenty of dancing amongst the crowd, who had packed out the Rebel Rebel Band Room to see the band’s first appearance. For a first gig, it was pretty damn impressive – sure, some of the songs were rough around the edges, but it was fun rock and roll for the entire set, that never showed any signs of slowing down.
In their final track, “It’s Time To Dance!” was the message they left us on – briefly pausing, accepting applause, before jamming until they had to regretfully end their party. Indeed, I could have kept watching and/or dancing, but I’m sure we’ll see them again before too long.
Chicks Who Love Guns were up next, and showed why bands probably shouldn’t be thrown onto a stage at 1.30am – there is too much drinking that happens beforehand. For both the band and their crowd. But they were probably even MORE fun as a result, and the crowd even crazier. They opened with a new track, played a couple off the EP, including “Smash Fuck”, gave us “Ghost”, “Where The Wild Things Isn’t” and “Take No Stock” ended proceedings.
Good times were had by all, with the crowd leaving the room slightly sweatier than they probably expected to. Not because it was packed in – but rather that the music induced seizure-like dancing of all present. Either that, or everyone was on drugs. You never can tell – kids these days! *Shakes fist at the sun*
