Rockin’ the Rosemount, four5nine bar
20 July 2014
Amberdown, Last Week’s Heroes, Ready to Fire, Ego, Space Station Animals
It was a dark, drizzly afternoon. A small crowd had started to assemble in the cosy four5nine bar, ready for a night of locally-sourced talent. Space Station Animals introduced themselves. “We’ll be chilling out and easing you into your Sunday evening.” In the absence of their drummer they played an acoustic set, and apologised that they might not be sufficiently Rockin’ The Rosemount. Remorse wasn’t required; The duo’s harmonies and rhythmic djembe drumming were the perfect backdrop for a Sunday afternoon drink.
The little bar was filling fast. After a thorough sound check and a sheepish request to borrow a snare stand, Ego launched into a booming cover of The Black Keys, Next Girl. It was the perfect song choice to exhibit their blues-rock skills. Guitar chords cleverly replaced synthesizer notes in a cover of MGMT, Electric Feel. Their originals were as energetic and captivating as their well-rehearsed covers. Swaying and grinning patrons appeared stoked with this band, and the boys from Ego were pleased with the turnout. “There’s only one thing better than having fans and that’s having fans that actually turn up,” commented bassist Zak Fleisher.
Ego left and took the crowd with them, leaving a more intimate audience to appreciate Ready to Fire’s ’90s radio rock sound. Vocalist Donna O'Brien poured her shrill emotions into the microphone while other band members directed their concentration to their instruments. If you have fond memories of singing along to the Dawson’s Creek theme or enjoyed the Looking for Alibrandi soundtrack, this band will draw out your nostalgic feelings.
Punters flooded back just in time for some catchy indie rock action from Last Week’s Heroes. Half the band – two guitar players named Alex – leapt dramatically off the stage during the first song, adding to the Rockin’ The Rosemount atmosphere. Returning to the stage, Alex Towler’s ringing lead vocals received choral reinforcement provided by Alex Gibson and bassist Simon Vermooten. Guitar notes were clear and crisp and the hooks were so sharp that the audience sung along to their little-known songs. Last Week’s Heroes were the heroes of the night, lifting the mood just in time for the final set.
Noticing that the stage was far too small, Amberdown’s bassist Jason Donoghue and guitarist David Lennon set up on the floor. From the stage, Daniel Connell’s vocals soared over a triad of guitars. Meanwhile, back on the floor, larrikin Donoghue provided comical entertainment with his interpretive dance moves and quirky commentary. “This beautiful man right here,” said Donoghue as he gestured toward second vocalist Jason Glatzer, “… is about to sing you a song from his voice box. It’s kind of like Barry White crossed with Hanson. We hope you enjoy it!” Don’t let that description deter you. If it’s an analogy you’re after, Amberdown sound a bit like Birds of Tokyo crossed with Incubus. Keep your ears open for an EP from this talented and entertaining five-piece later this year.
Review and Photos by Rrocklobster of Perth
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| Space Station Animals |
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| Ego |
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| Ready To Fire |
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| Last Week's Heroes |
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| Amberdown |
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