The Zoo - Sat Oct 1

Don’t let anyone fool you into thinking otherwise; Brisbane is the home of indie pop. It’s something to do with the legacy of The Go-Betweens and our boundless sunshine that makes everyone want to pick up guitars and make pensive yet suitably sunny songs. Youngsters, The Better Mousetrap Treatment bring pleasant indie-folk to tonight’s quadruple local band line-up. While they are still rough around the edges, their musicality becomes apparent in some inspired rock-outs towards the end.

The Bell Divers command an air of seriousness as Clinton Toghill’s deep and moody vocals envelop the room. Understated and strangely compelling, their melancholy pop and contemplative lyrics arguably steal the show. Meanwhile, The Stress Of Leisure elevate the mood with some punk-tinged pop rock. Ian Powne is an interesting frontman, dressed all in white and having a vaguely manic air to him. A cover of Turbonegro’s I Got Erection shows the bands’ lighter side as well as their punk influences.

Swaying Buildings’ pop rock finishes off the night. They put on a tight performance, with some driving melodies and epic guitar work. While the Go-Betweens influences are apparent throughout the course of the night, each band still maintains their individuality. If nothing else, tonight is evidence of the city’s strong songwriting history infiltrating a new wave of indie pop bands.

TIAN ZHANG

Comments (1)

Write Comment
Comments are submitted for possible publication on the condition that they may be edited. Poster's IP addresses are logged.
Name:
Comment:
Code:*