We arrive at the Friday portion of the festival, in which things really seemed to kick off – attendance grew as the headliners arrived, while the choice between showcases grew more and more difficult.
Today also saw my first opportunity to catch some day performances. The most notable of these was the impressive lineup at an amazing record store called Sonic Boom. Playing the stage today were artists such as Dinosaur Bones, J Mascis, Bombay Bicycle Club and Human. I managed to catch Ontarians Indian Handcrafts – a rock and roll two piece comprised of Brandyn James Aikins and Daniel Brandon Allen. This is very much a band to watch out for – they absolutely rock and are easily one of the best two pieces I’ve heard in quite some time. I would compare their style to Motorhead, just with a bit more screaming. Check out their Myspace page for a taste of what they’re all about, I don’t think my words can do them justice: http://www.myspace.com/indianhandcrafts/
As the day continued, the Australian contingency was treated to a few networking events, a few drinks, and as night struck, it was time to head out once again for some showcase action. I first caught Montreal’s Nash at a venue called Sneaky Dee’s. This is a band who have an impressive pedigree behind them – they have worked in with producer Waymon Boone (Splender), mixer Mike Shipley (Queen, Led Zeppelin, Faith Hill, My Chemical Romance…), Rod Shearer (Bran Van 3000, Voivod, The Stills) and Rob Battistuzzi (Malajube, the St. Catherines, The Breastfeeders). Not a bad CV.
Nash’s lead singer was resplendent in “a Guns n Roses t-shirt from the 80s”, and channeled Beck, John McCrea (Cake) and even Jarvis Cocker. The music was of similar influence – and throw in some Marcy Playground and we have ourselves a pretty good idea of what this band gets up to. Their latest single “Sad Robot” was a highlight of the set, and “Suit Up” closed things up. Destined to be featured on How I Met Your Mother, the soundtrack? No doubt. While it would be hard to argue their sound was the most original in the world, it was certainly enjoyable.
The Coppertone were wrapping up their set when I entered Lee’s Palace, with some georgous vocals from a beautiful lead singer, Amanda Zelina. While I didn’t see enough of the band to properly comment on the performance, I very much liked what I saw. Sydney’s The Jezabels followed, rendering the venue completely full – you simply couldn’t get in if you were waiting outside! Judging by the chatter at the convention centre, the buzz behind these guys was huge, so this interest came as little surprise. And let’s face it – they have become one of Australia’s ‘underground sensations’.
Next were locals Dinosaur Bones, who brought together the distinct sounds of The Strokes and Elbow to make something truly enjoyable. Bringing my night to a close were London’s Bombay Bicycle Club, who again saw the venue at capacity. Having an opportunity to grab a smoothie with the guys earlier in the day (you’ll see video of our chat soon), these are some lovely guys – and those that are familiar with their music will know just how great they are. With a ridiculous amount of energy on stage, they absolutely kill it live. Focusing on the material off their first LP, I Had the Blues But I Shook Them Loose (2009), which is finally making the international rounds. Channeling a little bit of Foals, but entering into the indie rock genre with a sound truly their own, Bombay Bicycle Club are definitely a band to watch. But given the fact that UK press has been saying this for a good year now, you probably knew that already, didn’t you?
A January 2012 visit is on the cards, and they hinted at a Big Day Out visit in our chat. However, nothing is yet confirmed.
Check out more about the bands featured at the Lee’s Palace showcase:
The Coppertone: http://www.thecoppertone.com/
The Jezabels: http://www.thejezabels.com/
Dinosaur Bones: http://www.myspace.com/dinosaurbonesband
Bombay Bicycle Club: http://www.myspace.com/bombaybicycleclub
