Just hitting the stage as I arrived at the Oxford Art Factory, Melbourne’s The Frowning Clouds mirror bands like The Beatles, The Kinks, The Monkees and The Rolling Stones with total conviction. From their hair and clothes to their 7 inches – they’ve committed to a 60s aesthetic and are doing it ample justice. It never feels forced, it never feels like they’re “wannabes” (which so many accused Oasis of in their early days) – they’re simply paying tribute to the music of their parent’s generation, which they no doubt grew up on themselves. Single “All Night Long” was a particular highlight of the energetic set, which featured some fairly impressive guitar work. These kids definitely have the talent!
Eagle and the Worm and the word “energetic” have always come hand in hand, and this gig was no exception. The eight piece, who incorporate a three piece brass ensemble, drums, guitars and keys, were tonight launching the Melbourne based group were officially celebrating the launch of their debut album Good Times (which received a 10/10 score on the AU review) to a packed out room. So packed out, in fact, it led them to ask the question “where did you all come from”!?
The audience gave them plenty of energy to work with as they jumped between their self described “Boyz II Men” vocal harmony numbers, their more party focused tunes and a couple of covers (“Rocks Off” by The Rolling Stones is of particular mention). As usual, the octet showed themselves off as apt musicians, with great moments in singles “Futureman” and “Good Times” and in the main set closer “All I Know” (the easy highlight of the night), which extended into the crowd; the brass section playing up on the Oxford Art Factory’s balcony. A great moment, with the band clearly enjoying the experience as much as (if not more than) the crowd.
The hour or so set came to an end with their fun cover of Janelle Monae’s “Tightrope” – which they played live tonight for the first time – outside of course from the triple J studios for whom they produced the track. A fantastically fun way to end a great Friday night of local music.
