The Great Escape kicked off in Brighton on Thursday, and for the Australian contingent it was a busy and succesful day. What started out as twenty-three Australian acts scheduled, had expanded to over thirty by the end of the day.
Sounds Australia, in partnership with Tourism Australia and The Australian High Commission in the UK put together two showcases, on the opening day, and also the third day of the festival.
On Thursday, taking place in Komedia Brighton, the two stages were pumping all afternoon. It was raining outside, and sweaty inside. Kicking off was Rum Jungle who have been selling out shows in London and Manchester, off the back of a massive twelve months.
Radio Free Alice have a sound that feels deep-rooted in the UK punk and post-punk scene. They felt right at home. Changing the pace somewhat, was the beautifully etched indie-folk sounds of Rowena Wise. A consummate songwriter and musician, it is always a joy to hear her perform.
Asha Jefferies has just released her exquisite debut album, Ego Ride, and it was a joy to hear these songs live. Cat & Calmell brought their dance pop to the studio stage
The Buoys are always brilliant live, and were buoyant indeed, as they were at the tail-end of their inaugural European tour. Their debut album comes out on the 12th July. We can’t wait for that. Another consummate songwriter, and a late addition to the bill was Merpire. It was an unexpected bonus, a reminder of what a great lyricist she is.
The hypnotic dance-punk outfit, Gut Health were brilliant. Lead singer Athina Uh Oh has charisma to burn, and the guitars had a delicious urgency to them that left you wanting more, much more.
Gomeroi man Kobie Dee told us his stories through his rap and was the perfect close to the Studio stage. Teenage Dads was the closer on the Basement Stage, but I couldn’t get in as it was ‘too full’ – apparently they were fabulous!.
It was then time to wander the streets of Brighton – and get the steps in (over 20,000 for the day). There was so much to see, from local pop star RIKA , Yorkshire’s singer/songwriter Fiona-Lee to our own Johnny Hunter with their emotive goth-rock.
I finished the night off at St. Nicholas Church with Max Rae. A long and fabulous day of music it had been
More photos below.
