Thepointsunshinecoast's Blog

A Wildfire in The Vagrant City

thepointsunshinecoast — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:20:59 +0000

One of the worst things about being short and reviewing a gig – the tall bastards that insist on standing in front of you during the show. That whinge aside, I’m here at Solbar to see The Vagrant City Scandal launch their new EP, ‘Wildfire’.

Apologies to support acts Dunsinane and Martin Party… I tried to get here on time, and I could probably come up with a dozen excuses, but honestly, I’m busy… However feedback from punters basically summed up to that both supports were amazing.

I can’t remember the last time I actually caught The Vagrant City Scandal live, but they have remained one of my favourite Coast bands (Hypochondriac from the first EP is still on high rotation at Point HQ).

I will say this, I always thought they were impressive, but man, in their slight absence (from my view anyways) these guys have tightened up!

To have the front bar in Solbar relatively empty and the back bar pumping on a Friday night is a very good sign.

TVCS’ take on the new wave sound has progressed. Bright, jangly guitar, melodic baselines and a steady skinsmen (Jake is killing it behind the kit tonight), as well as well-constructed samples, make for a great recipe – blurring the lines between dance and pop rock, they keep the dance floor full.

I have no idea, though, how vocalist/guitarist Elliot plays in a jacket. I know how hot it gets on that stage. He’d have to be wringing the sweat out after that set.

Very cool set (though a bit iffy on their choice of John Paul Young’s ‘Love is in the Air’ cover… However it still had punters daggy dancing… Even the bar staff- I’m talking about you, Leah), nice tight sound, good to have you back, lads.

Extra points go to their producer who did the lights while getting his groove on.

Now for one last beer, and I’m going to limp four doors down for a midnight hot dog (thank you drunk red head chick with the 3 inch stilettos who stood on my already injured foot).

Grab a copy of TVCS’ ‘Wildfire’ EP and support this very cool band.

- Rooster

The Sweet Sounds of the Sunshine Coast – in2nation review (supporting Red Bantoo), Jan 13

thepointsunshinecoast — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 10:05:19 +0000

The only way I can think to describe In2nation is, hip-funk-blues-hop! Their set at the Solbar on Friday night seemed to set the place on fire with the crowd roaring and running to the dance floor before the first song had even begun! They commanded all the bodies in the room with a super groovy bass line to kick start the show and with a drummer and percussionist joining in before some electrifying guitar, the audience were captivated for every heart filled word!
With the friendly face of Solbar’s own Mick Wallace fronting the band, keeping the energy levels high and rhyming like there is no tomorrow, In2nation had the room louder than I’d ever heard before!
Screaming, cheering, grooving and constantly moving, it was very hard to tell which element of the band was most popular! The lyrical hooks were in abundance, fun to sing, easy to catch and extremely relatable; it seemed that the crowd knew every chorus!
The guitar work cut through in the solos, with a sound that reminded me of Hendrix and the Mason Rack Band, I saw air guitar in every direction! The beats were very progressive, teasing the crowd and making the most of each section, before really busting out in the instrumental parts. And aside from all of that, the crowd interaction from the band was phenomenal!
We clapped, we sang, we danced all night and two lucky punters where even given prizes (including a brand new skate deck) for the most energetic moves. One song even had the whole room inches from the floor, just hanging for the band to bring us back to life and when Mick gave the signal, it felt like the room was being shaken by a giant the way the bodies were bouncing around!
The set provided an array of tempos, consistently funky. Every song had a powerful message and unique sound. The band really made the crowd feel like part of the show! The most important detail of the night though, absolutely everyone had a blast! If you haven’t had a chance to check out local funksters In2nation, put it on your priority list! Peace

- Conjure Shane

Bonjahnuary

thepointsunshinecoast — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 13:25:43 +0000

It’s a humid January night on the Coast, and SolBar is bracing itself for two big nights in a row, thanks to touring faves, Bonjah.
I’m at the back of the big room, watching the majority of punters rub up against each other, whether intentionally or forced – it’s unavoidable… Bonjah are killing it tonight.

First though, the popular and very talented Mitch Davis and his Dawn Chorus did a phenomenal job in warming the crowd (warming? More like inducing a sauna like condition). You have to hand it to Mitch and his collective… Their sweeping melodies and soaring vocals, backed with extremely tight musicianship (they would have to boast one of the tightest rhythm sections on the Coast – shared with Khan, of course).

With a quick break, and a Doors intermission, Bonjah take to this stage and instantly get butts shaking, and working the crowd into a foamy lather consisting of sweat, alcohol and loving’ vibes… It can’t be helped.

It’s no wonder Bonjah are a favourite here, with the frontman working the crowd and the band obviously enjoying themselves on stage.

They’ll be doing this again tomorrow night, so whatever they had in their weetbix this morning, they better have the same in the morning to keep this energy up.

Hot night, great bands… I need another beer.

- Rooster

Snack Size Review – Cute Machines First Demo Track

thepointsunshinecoast — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 22:16:35 +0000

Hi there. My name is Rooster and I have a problem. I can’t let go of the 90s. Let’s face it, those that had the chance, nay, were lucky enough to be teenagers through the 90s witnessed some epic music. I’ve had to rely on tracing back through my CD collection to get my fix.

However, yesterday I was made aware of a new demo track by the band Cute Machines. Before listening I was excited as a) it features three mates of mine, two of which I have known for more than half my life, and b) I was given notice that this project was in the works on Christmas Eve, but was not expecting to hear something so soon.

I don’t normally like to give a review on the basis of listening to just one track. But dammit, I’ve been listing to the demo to ‘Babel’ consistently (I’m onto listen #11) and thought it was worthy of putting it out there… I want more!

Cute Machines are definitely brining the 90s tones back. It’s very Stone Temple Pilots-ish, (well, this track is), with the sparkly, flowing guitars in the chorus with the big vocal harmonies and catchy melody, and the verses with their simple riffage and driving drums.

Here’s the jist… for those that have been wanting a new Melodyssey track (I don’t want to be making a big deal out of this, but there’s a big elephant in the room which is that Cute Machines features brothers Vincent – Clint and Dan from Melodyssey), this will be the closest you’ll get. Personally, I think it’s a different sound, but there are some little hints in there (Clint’s guitar parts are pretty recognisable). Dan Cunliffe’s vocals are so Scott Weiland in this, it’s uncanny.

Long story short (this is SUPPOSED TO BE a Snack Size Review), I can’t wait to hear the rest of the EP. If ‘Babel’ is just a small hint of what is to come, then we’re in for an epic listen.

-Rooster

PS… Scotty… you’re such a band whore… love your work man

Band Pics 2011/2012

thepointsunshinecoast — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:56:24 +0000

A miscellaneous debris of band pics that we’ll add to gradually throughout the year.

Dubmarine at the SolBar

Cheap Fakes at SolBar

TAFE Music Industry Showcase

The Floating Bridges at SolBar

The Floating Bridges at RGs

Cheap Fakes at Peregian Originals

2012 – The Point’s Predictions

thepointsunshinecoast — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:59:21 +0000

We’ve looked into our Crystal Ball (after a few beers) and seen what is to come. Here are our bold predictions for music on the Sunshine Coast in 2012.

1. Girl power will continue with a new supergroup forming (much like Seeker Lover Keeper) featuring Alys Longmate, Sahara Beck, Taylor Moss, and Kelsie Rimmer… only to end in an all out cat fight on stage at one show, with the girls deciding that could be part of a gimmick for them.

2. At least one hardcore band will do a ‘Bang Bang Boss Kelly’, and ditch the heavy sound, and pick up banjos, acoustic guitars and a double bass to form a folk/gypsy-core band.

3. The Floating Bridges will get together after a short break and decide to change direction and really go ahead with becoming a Mariachi Band.

4. The Lady Throat Killers will FINALLY release their album (and it will be the shape of Oz Hip Hop to come).

5. Dead Kelly will play a live show

6. Not content with working in 5 to 6 different projects, John Collins (bassist – Khan, Green Room, Mitch Davis & The Dawn Chorus etc) will successfully clone himself several times to form his own band, JC and the Collective

7. Not content with being a 5-piece, Rivalry will now become a 9-piece band.

8. The Greenroom will finally release their album.

9. Flanellette shirts, greasey, unkempt hair, mumbled/screamed vocals – Grunge makes a revival (and all the cool kids will be harping on about this ‘new’ sound).

10. There will be an MC battle between Kudos and Pine Cone Throat (did you know he can rap?)

11. Melbourne bands will move up here, instead of the other way around.

12. Roland from Bump will finally admit that he’s a closet Dubstep fan, and all his sets will be non-stop wub wub.

13. Someone will actually NOT do a cover of Hallelujah (not dissing those that have done unreal versions, but, y’know, there’s a million songs out there to cover).

14. SolBar will extend and Fridays will be empty.

15. Rob Stanley will set the world speed record for solo shredding, performed live in front of a crowd of 500, with the front row temporarily losing the ability to speak, and indadvertedly, Rob melts his own face with the shear awesomeness of his shreddery.

16. The Point will release a tell-all book on all the secrets of the Sunshine Coast music scene, which will quickly go to the top of the best seller’s list, thus funding the opportunity to start up an Indie Label and hipster clothing line.

17. To mark the possible end of the world, there will be a massive festival on Dec 21, featuring all of our awesome talent, running for 24 hours on two stages (actually.. that would be pretty cool).

*Ed’s Note – these predictions are the result of a slightly faulty crystal ball, and in no way reflect the true nature of any artists mention. Purely parody. We loves you guys.

The 2011 The Point Peer list

thepointsunshinecoast — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:15:59 +0000

The peers have had their say on their thoughts on the best local releases of 2011.
One that was mentioned often was The Secret Whisper. We reviewed them earlier this year and really dug their EP. Have a listen to the track Remember When.

One that came out of nowhere was an offering from a trio of shit punks. Spuhtnik’s demo/EP really did blow us away.

The Barleyshakes were a definite Nambour Originals favourite, and did strike up a mention.

They’re playing at SolBar this Thursday, and were a favourite of one of OUR favourite event organisers… Mitzi bring the groove, man.

We can’t reall separate this little power trio of young women who, despite their ages, are completely kicking arse. Sahara Beck, Alys Longmate, Taylor Moss…. holy crap you young ladies have talent.

On the heavier side of things, and only recently brought to my attention was The Art of Her… complete surprise and an awesome sounding album.

Flying the flag for the ‘older’ metallers… Inhailed released their epic debut this year. Still can’t get around to fully reviewing it due to the sheer brutality of this EP.

The Mank brought the funk, and Kudos spun us out with his fast flowing fluent rhymes.

The next gen of musos coming through the ranks started to rear their heads, so shouts out to Dead Frogs, Afterglow and Conjure Elysian.

There’s sooo many damn good bands that came out this year, but those were the ones that were brought up with our peers.

But you know what… we’re going to be greedy bastards and, seeing as the two heads of The Point are both in Coast bands that released works this year, we’re going to give Floating Bridges’ ‘Foreign Land’ and Kindread’s ‘Idealize’ a mention to… f*ck it.. why not?

thepointsunshinecoast — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 21:09:41 +0000

Recently host to the Coolum Original Song competion, the CBH has come to realise the local talent is bursting from the streets! With over 15 spectacular acts in the final alone, including Alys Longmate (first place), Sahara Beck (second place) and several of the Coasts best young bands, the venue has seen the light and there are now rumours of another local open mic night and possibly a band competion. Keep an eye out for more details and don’t be afraid to let the venue know if you love the idea!

- Conjure Shane

*Editor’s Note
Front Rose Events & Management have been put in charge of organising bands for regular, weekly events at the Coolum Beach Hotel now, bringing together fantastic local acts together on one night. The CBH has hosted in the past, the Drop the Junk series, which were amazingly popular. So, Sunshine Coast, another venue has stood up to the plate and given you another choice for live local music.
*Front Rose Events & Management also organise the Buderim Tavern Sunday Sessions, which are a free event held every Sunday afternoon from 4 until 8pm.

The Sweet Sounds of the Sunshine Coast – Solbar

thepointsunshinecoast — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 21:04:10 +0000

Previously based in Coolum, now located on Ocean St in the heart of Maroochydore, the Solbar is definitely the freshest, funkiest place to enjoy live original music on the Sunshine Coast! Frequently featuring touring acts from all around Australia and providing opportunities for local bands to support and connect with these great acts, Solbar is fast becoming the most popular venue on the Coast! Sweet vibes, cheap drinks, the coolest crew on the coast, and live music across all genres! With the biggest open mic nights on the coast every Wednesday, alternative nights every Thursday and the grooviest tunes around on a Friday and Saturday, if you want to have a good night, Solbar is the place to be!

Similar to the usual Sunday Sessions, Solbar kicks off most late afternoons with great, local and touring acoustic acts in the front room, perfect if you’re keen for a drink after work. The back room opens up later in the night and the place comes alive with more fantastic local acts like Finchington getting everyone in the mood before the before the real fun even begins! By 10pm, even the paintings on the wall are dancing to more local tunes from various funk, blues, reggae, rock, pop, hip hop, and traditional artists including acts like Kindread, In2nation, Cleveland Blues and the Red Eye Junction, the Floating Bridges, the Flumes, the Roshambos, the Secret Whisper and Dubarray.

By 11pm the big names start to come out and the crowd love it, with acts such as the Cheap Fakes, BONJAH, Tijuana Cartel, Spacifix and Caravana Sun, the bodies can’t resist the beats and so the night carries on and on! Once all the live music finishes up the fun doesn’t stop because the music keeps coming, courtesy of some of the coasts best DJs from midnight until closing time! Basically, there is a night for everyone at the Solbar.

Run by musos, for musos, the Solbar is taking the Sunshine Coast music scene by storm and is alreally considered one of the most prestigious and respected venues on the Coast, deservedly!

- Conjure Shane

The Sweet Sounds of the Sunshine Coast – Open Mic Nights

thepointsunshinecoast — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 21:02:10 +0000

Any musician will agree that the hardest and sometimes most tedious part of the industry is getting your foot in the door. Up and coming musos all around the coast are just begging to be discovered and with the support of a few fantastic folk and some great venues, they can now step up to the stage with confidence!

With a massive thanks to Debby Parsons for her Circle of Sound, and the Solbar, the coast has bloomed some beauties this past year with some absolutely amazing acts coming through the Open Mic nights. Hosted by musos for musos, these nights are bringing the local music scene to life every week and psyching everyone up for the weekend!

Wednesday nights at the Solbar start at 8pm and provide a professional set up unrivalled on the coast. Combined with the loving and supporting vibes of all those musos every week, these nights have literally out grown the room over the last 6 months and the acts have begun flowing onto the big stage in the back room. With artists like Clair Willoughby, Lucy and Jade, Finchington, Arne plus Tuck and friends playing regularly, every week gets better and better and it’s the perfect environment for anyone who wants to get their songs heard, especially original stuff!

Thursday nights it all happens at the Duporth Tavern, hosted by Debby, the night starts with a feature act of her choice and we’ve had some great treats so far including Finchington, Taylor Moss, Alys Longmate and Anna Parton. With an even more relaxed vibe than the Solbar and the regular surprise performances of well established local musos, the Circle of Sound is the perfect way to get a feel for the scene before diving straight in to the Solbar. With a few acts from the Wednesday night popping in each week as well as an awesome array of fresh talent, two dollar tacos and a free drink for each act, these nights are must see for anyone who considers them self a local muso!

- Conjure Shane