The Alley Bar - Sat Mar 15

Piano-based balladeer Jennifer Boyce gets nostalgic about the gigs she has performed at The Alley, but buoyed by her far-reaching voice, she ends her allotted stage time full of smiles and a singalong for finale Daisy.

Sutra-Veda’s music ranges from sweet country to confronting folk. Singer/guitarist Kristian James’ sentiment of “big ups to The Alley” becomes a running theme throughout the night, while Megan McQuade’s electric violin provides melancholic undertones.

Things get rowdy as blues-rock trio Hypernovae begin with a few swear words and smeltering guitar solos. Their meaty power chords and the tortured wail of the bassist works well in The Alley locale, heard over the clink of snooker balls and empty bottles.

When virtuoso guitarist John Malcolm begins with Cuts Like A Diamond, he’s dripping sweat into a battered and bruised old acoustic guitar. He fuses elements of jazz, blues, country and latin music into an impressive gumbo as audience members view in disarray.

Jason Castle & The Rascals close tonight’s proceeding with another set of tightly wound blues-rock. His two rascals provide a solid rhythmic backing, allowing Jason to stretch out for the solos. The extended jams get a little bit jazzy, a little funky, all held together by a love of the music.

It’s a damn shame to be saying goodbye to a venue that has served as a breeding ground for Brisbane talent over the years. Alley Bar, you will be missed.

MITCH ALEXANDER

Be first to comment on this article

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:*