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The Globe - Sat Sept 20
Following the cancellation of original openers Do The Robot, Secret Birds substitute and continue to occupy a curious position within the local scene. Though usually propelled by at least two tandem drummers, tonight they’re backed by just one, whose rhythmic mastery is central to the crowd’s enjoyment. Their 25-minute set comprises several discernable movements: progressive bassline motifs are mirrored by guitarist Damon Black between squalling noise, while another member manipulates sounds behind a laptop connected to several more pedals. It’s aural candy to the crowd, who clearly veer toward the more experimental end of the musical spectrum.
Equally polarising to the ears of conventional music fans are Del Toro, whose tight instrumental pieces are happily confined to more friendly song structures. The trio’s debut album Hydra is enjoyable on record, but far moreso onstage: it’s visually comforting to witness Adam Dodd’s layers of effects-based noodlings and Tam Patton’s complex basslines, which are complemented by Bre O’Neill’s compact drumming style. Patton’s recent addition has further strengthened the band, who remain a compelling prospect for the set’s duration.
Melbourne’s Laura have been absent from Brisbane stages of late, instead opting to tour Japan. Their return is greeted with courteous appreciation and a healthy proportion of scepticism, not least of which is on the part of yours truly. Six musicians; at times, three guitarists; a cello?! But it works, although the sheer level of musical activity within their sprawling post-rock pieces leads to an occasionally beleaguered mix. I chuckle while imagining the Fellowship traversing Middle Earth during the cello motif of Radio Swan Is Down, before reminding myself that this is serious business, goddamnit! I mirror the expressions of my fellow attendees and nod with furrowed brow, while noting that an exhilarating performance of Widow’s Son is the set’s apex, followed closely by the spooky whispers and xylophone of We Should Keep This Secret. Instrumental rock, three: everything else, zero.
ANDREW MCMILLEN
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