By the time I finally got to check out DZ Deathrays at SXSW, they had already played ten shows. This one – just after midnight at Bar 96 – was their eleventh and last. So it was perhaps appropriate that things should go a bit wrong, as someone “pulled the power” before the hit the stage. But they eventually rocked on and got in four tracks.
Focusing on material from their upcoming album, Black Rat, the music was sounding sweet, in spite of the sound problems they battled through like professionals. One thing was clear, too: they’ve become even better musicians between albums. I can’t wait for the new album!
As we headed out from the venue to see Gary Numan in his final performance at SXSW, we stumbled across a band called Think No Think at Lustre Pearl, who had left the confines of the venue to see their guitarist performing in the street. The local three piece were rockin’ it hard and impressing with a heavy performance.
Then it was time to close my festival with the one and only Gary Numan, who was playing what was at least his third performance of the day, impressing crowds in Elysium. The set is easily one of my highlights of the whole weekend. With a four piece behind him, the set was so heavy, so industrial and wonderful, proving he remains ahead of the curb after all these years.
Opening with “I Am Dust”, his repetoire went through his back catalogue and included tracks from his latest release Splinter, which he’ll be touring Australia in May. Songs like “Down in the Park”, “Love Hurt Bleed” off the latest record and “We Are Glass” were included in the set, as lazers shot out behind the legendary performer.
Easily his most well known track, “Cars” made a welcome appearance, with a harder, more industrial edge. Very cool. Gary himself jumped between the synth and the guitar, as the latter was draped low as he hung himself from the mic stand. Having seen Trent Reznor barely a week prior to this performance, I have to say that Numan still delivers the better performance – he remains timeless. One of the best performers of any generation… and I couldn’t think of a better way to close out my SXSW for 2014.
Let’s do it all again next year!
