I ran through the light rain to reach the Metro, nice and early to set myself up in a good spot for the night, and lucky I did too. I am a fan of a good view (which the Metro definitely caters for) but amazingly for a band that has been off the radar of mainstream their whole lives, the theatre was crammed full by the time Midlake hit the stage. Eagerly awaiting the arrival of the folk/ hippy/ country rockers, the crowed was lulled with the sweet sounds of Big Scary to launch the night. Neither big nor scary, the duo from Melbourne left the crowd with haunting acoustic versions of their heavier pieces, masterfully demonstrating their finesse with multiple instruments, in particular the piano, finishing with two tracks receiving air time on the Js; Autumn and Falling. I absolutely love their stuff.
This was a fitting introduction for the band of the evening, a hush descending over the crowd before Midlake’s arrival. Easing into the night, with the obvious reverence of the crowd, Midlake traversed tracks from all three albums. The band proficiently defines beautiful and classic rock, reminiscent of The Eagles and a mellow and folky Jethro Tull. Midlake develop that sort of sound into something more organic and more poignant, adding a couple of flutes will do this! Yet you would think that for a band of seven, with 5 guitars (wow) some flutes, a keyboard, drums and a tambourine there would be this cacophony of folky sound, an assault on your eardrums. It is definitely not the case here; the band is focused with apparently sporadic instrumentals moving with a strong direction in a coherent yet adventurous way. The bearded and relaxed crew are true to their hometown of Denton in Texas, eager for some good ole country rock. The tracks are humbly sung and the general feeling is being swamped in 1890’s folk traditions, with lyrics inspiring imagery of distant times. Audacious guitar solos get appreciation from both the greying hipsters and the younger revellers. In fact the crowd can only be described as a weird sort of blend between the youngin’s delving into niche subgenres and the oldies that have grown up loving the sound of solid and vociferous rock.
Crowd favourites like Roscoe, Van Occupanther and Young Bride displayed the complete ease at which beautiful harmonies and quiet musings ooze from the group, and how likable their music is. What was clear was the absolute joy that the band had while playing. Members seemed genuinely interested in the others on stage, and would share coy smiles and nods between one another. The throng of people were especially admiring, hushed for the quiet intros; nothing but the keys or the flutes floating about the room and nestling deep within the crowd. Sharing some stage banter and joking with members of the audience, singer Mackenzie Smith confessed their concern that no one would come to see them. He also joked that they may have put on a few pounds since we had last seen them, (we don’t mind! It adds to the brilliant illusion that you have been holed up inside a dwelling somewhere south, making music and growing you beards!).
Finishing with their encore of Bandits and Branch the band really hit home an amazing show. Such humble and genuine guys, Midlake really struck a chord with the Sydney audience, pulling off a beautiful performance. Thank you, wholeheartedly, Midlake, you will be missed!
xx
Monday, August 9
Tuesday, August 3
Band of Horses (29/July, Enmore, Sydney)
Ohhh, so that’s what Band of Horses are like when they play a good live show. Sucks for me to admit it, but Adelaide really bummed out in this department, as Sydney hosted an absolutely amazing performance. For starters, the guys had an awesome turn out, much bigger than Adelaide which probably led to the increased enthusiasm, energy and awesomeness. Playing at the Enmore Theatre created a sweet vibe, the retro theatre along with its sloped floor and majestic balcony drawing out the real Band of Horses.
The set list was entirely different, which was refreshing for any of us seeing them multiple times over this month and the location was incredible. Behind the band on a massive white screen were pictures depicting landscapes, still life, snaps taken by the band and moving scenery, projected to gorgeous effect. Capturing a remote country vibe with these shots really enveloped the audience visually and emotionally with the band, and the boys were a lot more confident for it. Lead singer Ben Bridwell went as far as to have a ciggy on stage to prelude a song, while performed some lyrics offstage as he wandered about the set.
Crowd members were also treated to a new song performed by Ryan Monroe (keys, voice) which had a few people dancing along despite the unfamiliar tune. A highlight for me was Bridwell encouraging the old school every-one-hold-up-their-lighters thing - oh so cute- with no lame mobile phone lights like you sometimes see these days. Very fitting for a country sing-a-long to 'older'.
Alas, with all my shameless screaming and bouncing on the spot, I was deprived of the tack Monsters yet again. Oh the tragedy. It will forever haunt me now that they have done this twice to me! Despite shaking an angry fist in their direction (and probably in time with the music), I can’t believe the difference between the shows. So very glad I made the trek from Adelaide for this one, and sadly I’m sure I’ll be along for any other of their shows in the future (maybe just to hear them play monsters!). Well done guys, you definitely redeemed your Adelaide show in my eyes, and in the shining eyes of those witnessed your show it will be one to remember.
xx
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