LIVE REVIEW: FLEET FOXES + THE DODOS @ Metro Theatre

3RD JANUARY 2009 For most people this gig was the first of the new year and in many ways the Fleet Foxes were the indie band of 2008 with their self titled debut appearing at the top of most ‘end of year’ lists.  It seemed like the perfect way to kick off a truly packed month or two of shows in Sydney and the style … Continue reading LIVE REVIEW: FLEET FOXES + THE DODOS @ Metro Theatre

REVIEW: LIME SPIDERS @ The Annandale Hotel 20/12/08

The Lime Spiders are a legendary Sydney band so it was time for this expat New Zealander to venture down to the Annandale and continue his education in the history of Australian music.  The path of discovery has travelled through the towns of The Saints, Scientists and Radio Birdman and we have now arrived at the door of The Lime Spiders. Tripping onto the stage … Continue reading REVIEW: LIME SPIDERS @ The Annandale Hotel 20/12/08

LIVE REVIEW: Justin Townes Earle @ The Annandale Hotel

It must be a blessing and a curse working your way into an industry with a name loaded with history and expectation.  Justin Townes Earle carries the surname of his father Steve and his middle name is that of his father’s mentor, Townes Van Zandt.  From his comments during the show and the inked word ‘Townes’ tattooed across his chest, it would appear that Van … Continue reading LIVE REVIEW: Justin Townes Earle @ The Annandale Hotel

LIVE REVIEW: JAMIE HUTCHINGS @ Annandale 16/11/08

The host of the evening’s entertainment was the prolific Jamie Hutchings and his Imaginary Choir who form the bulk of the current musicians behind Hutchings’ solo work.  As the heart and soul of Bluebottle Kiss he has released 6 albums, all of a consistently high standard, plus numerous EPs and singles.  His first solo record, The Golden Coach, received positive reviews and showcased the less … Continue reading LIVE REVIEW: JAMIE HUTCHINGS @ Annandale 16/11/08

REVIEW: HOWE GELB @ Factory Theatre 30/10/08

Last night was a low key show at the Factory Theatre with a disappointing turnout to see the Giant Sand mainman playing in mainly solo mode.  The sparse crowd in many ways made for a more intimate experience with the silence allowing the guitar and desert blown voice of Gelb to ring out through the venue. In support Wifey played an upbeat set prominently featuring … Continue reading REVIEW: HOWE GELB @ Factory Theatre 30/10/08

REVIEW: MICK TURNER @ Hopetoun 17/10/08

The Hopetoun is the pefect venue to see someone like Mick Turner.  The brick walls, small space, low stage and the devoted few.  I missed the support bands as I was trying out the new eatery upstairs (Rider) and can report the food is damn good, especially the kangaroo burrito, believe me – try it! Mick was playing solo tonight, with Jeffrey Wegener (ex Laughing … Continue reading REVIEW: MICK TURNER @ Hopetoun 17/10/08

REVIEW: PATTI SMITH live at the Sydney Opera House 15/10/08

Patti returned to Sydney after last playing here at the Entertainment Centre as support on one of Bob Dylan’s tours.  This time round we we able to be immersed in the full Patti experience from the early songs, now etched into rock’s mythology, to a couple of reinterpretations from her recent covers record Twelve. In support were The Drones who restructured their shortish set with … Continue reading REVIEW: PATTI SMITH live at the Sydney Opera House 15/10/08

REVIEW: Joan as Police Woman

Metro Theatre Oct 7th 2008 I went along to this show curious to see what form she would present her songs in.  Real Life and To Survive both tread soulful, subdued and delicate paths so I was unsure whether we would get a piano in the spotlight or a wider band performance.  Having seen Joan previously at the Leonard Cohen tribute and as part of … Continue reading REVIEW: Joan as Police Woman