The Zoo - Sat Jun 27

Twenty-first century bluesman Claude Hay warms up the crowd with his wailing voice, weeping guitars and two feet constantly occupied by a percussion set-up and pedals that trigger samples recorded and looped back in real-time. It’s an impressive display of multi-tasking, but more important is the end result. I’m not sure I’m onboard with his accelerated re-imagining of Queen’s We Will Rock You, but points must be awarded for the bravery with which he dismantles the yobbo staple. The Protectors from Sydney tear through a manic set that is hard to define but easy to enjoy. Sometimes drifting into hi-hat heavy dance rock, at other times bordering on balls out rock & roll, the audience are at the mercy of rakish protagonist Pete Stals for the entire set. The most formidable blues rock duo in Australia today (I know that’s not saying much, but a band this rocking need a title), The Fumes are a tensile ball of energy from start to finish. Steve Merry’s gritty voice and intricate guitar picking are at their best on Tell Ya Story Walking and recent single Python For A Pillow, while Joel Battersby’s spider-like drumming is hard to take your eyes off. A tremendous blend of blues traditions and punk attitude, the Australian touring circuit is theirs for the taking.

MITCH ALEXANDER

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