The SOUNDS AUSTRALIA crew have always maintained an impressive presence internationally, The Great Escape proving to be no exception to the rule for another year. Kicking off their time in Brighton with the annual Sound Gallery at Komedia, a great array of Australian artists took to the stage in the underground venue and upstairs in the studio space.
Confidence Man and Ainslie Wills had the duties of opening both stages just after midday – both artists coming out to play with contrasting vibes to be sure, but neither were nonetheless captivating and entertaining to watch. As The Great Escape’s first day continued to roll on around Komedia – and as the rain fully set in – so did the talent in the venue, with the likes of Tired Lion, The Goon Sax and Middle Kids treading the stage downstairs.
Upstairs, Sarah Belkner and Dean Lewis stunned particularly. Both are phenomenal vocalists with bright futures ahead. Lewis, of course, has been enjoying much radio success back home with “Waves” and “Need You Now” propelling the musician on to the radars of many around the place, while Belkner and her incredible musicality has been known to us (and many) for a little while now – her place at The Great Escape this year is hopefully indicative of a fruitful year ahead.
Olympia, Jack Ladder and Gordi also proved to be solid highlights of the Australian continent’s first day out at The Great Escape and with two more Sounds Australia branded events to come (the Aussie BBQ at Patterns on Saturday and the Aussie BBQ in London on Sunday), we can only expect more huge things to come.
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