That Fest @ Cabarita Beach, Cabarita (20/11/2010)

Only in its second year, with enough maturity to rival other, the fresh faced northern New South Wales festival known simply as That Fest has opened its caring arms yet again for another day of fun in the sun.  As the beautiful beach side town of Cabarita welcomes the anxious horde of punters ready to party early in the morning, behind the scenes over 30 of Australia’s finest acts prepare for their busy day ahead.

 

While the clouds lingering threatened to ruin the day’s events, the Dance tent seemed to be a crowd favourite. Whether it be during the freak torrential rain or the abnormally intense heat wave that followed, thousands risked limbs and body odour by jamming into every nook and cranny inside the massive tent. Obviously capitalising, the energy given by DJ OMFG and side project Trial and Erra was only multiplied by the adoring audience. Blasting through a swagger of dance floor bangers and several original mixes, it was their take on classics by Crystal Castles and Ou Est Le Swimming Pool that proved the real ‘festival’ starter.

 

Over on the main stage, local rock n roll hardcore group Mourning Tide however educated the crowd in the art of head banging. Spitting fierce lyrics over face melting solo’s, Tyrone and the boys only fuelled Mother Nature in quest to soak Cabarita. Finally letting go, the rain fell mid-set with no intention of stoping.

 

In search for cover, currently hosted by Trip Kicks and Two Tall Bastards, the  now overflowing dance tent looked more like a mosh than a dance floor. Playing along with an amazing visual light show, located inside a Daft Punk-esq Pyramid, both DJ acts frequently updated their song choices to accommodate the drowned but loving audience. Even the Purple Sneakers boys worked the crowd up into a frenzy by pumping massive remix’s of acts such as Miike Snow, The Rapture and headliners Little Red.

 

Plagued with technical difficulties, with several instruments just not seeming to work, soul and hip-hop kings Space Invaders wowed the crowd from the get go. Opening with an soulful rendition of The Temper Traps ‘Sweet Disposition’, the stylish group clearly turned some heads. However, the boys immediately got back into crooning the swarms by promoting tracks from the debut ARIA nominated album Soul:Fi.

 

Only mere weeks ago, Adelaide’s finest in hip-hop, the Funkoars were bracing themselves to be pulled off stage. While legal issues about freedom of speech almost halted their entire set, promoters gave the boys the green light for their performance at That Fest. Blistering through a highly energetic body shaking set, it would be safe to say that nearly every woman in attendance had the best view, simply due to the fact most were hoisted on shoulders throughout.

 

Hidden away inside the Jam tent, twelve-piece phenomenon Velociraptor gladly destroyed the entire stage and every instrument in sight. With help from The Belligerents, the chaos that followed simply cannot be described or reviewed. It really is something you just have to witness to believe.

 

While attempting to regain to reality, under the dance tent local Gold Coast masters in crime the Surecut Kids warmed the decks with their exceptional and immaculate disc spinning skills and outrageous onstage antics. While the very sexualised performance may have featured a dancing vagina getting loose to the pumping track ‘Barbra Streisand’, the addition of ‘Pon De Floor’ and the ‘daggering’ dance crazy was evident throughout the crowd. Some ‘over excited’ animals even took measures into their own hands… literally, if you get my drift.

 

Just off the plane from Perth the night previous, the still yawning Miami Horror embraced their cult figure status amongst the younger generation in Cabarita.  Promoting their unique disco-house sound, obviously influence by the dance-pop sounds of the 70’s and 80’s, the recently released album Illumination was more than well received by the public. One of the more stylish acts of the day, the boys ripped through a set list of hits including singles ‘Moon Theory’, ‘I Look to You’ and show closer ‘Sometimes’ to roaring appreciation.

 

Hailing from Melbourne, the old fashioned rock and roll outfit known as Little Red have been compared to the likes of The Beach Boys. With beautifully synchronized harmonies, rivalling likes of acclaimed choirs, over pure rock chords, Little Red easily pleased the adoring punters with classics such as ‘Waiting’, ‘Witch Doctor’ and ‘Coca-Cola’.  Eventually ending with summer anthem and feel good track of 2010 ‘Rock It’, the sheer excitement and exhilaration felt left the crowd begging for more.

 

The most talked about inclusion to this year’s line up, and easily the most anticipated, three piece Australian rock and electronic band Regurgitator fronted a near sell out crowd. Once Quan, Ben and Peter blended their quite distinctive sound with the crowd’s enthusiasm, understandably pandemonium followed. Having 6 full length albums, 5 EP’s and several massive tracks, song choice did not disappoint. Cult tunes ‘I Will Lick Your Arsehole’, ‘My Friend Robot’ and ‘I Sucked Alota Cock To Get Where I Am’ went down a treat. Bouncing around on stage, Quan and Ben looked like maniacs wielding their instruments while drummer Peter made more noise than humanly possible. However, as expected, the greatest applause was saved for monster hits ‘Polyester Girl’, ‘The Song Formally Known As’ and ‘The Drop’.

 

As the day draws to its end, and the masses head back home, one thing is for certain. For only its second year running, That Fest has once again shined through the ranks. While the small grounds allowed for authentic intimacy with its incredible line up and overly enthusiastic and excitable crowd, to pin point the real joy of the days preceding is near impossible. Hearing rumours already for next year, all you can say is ‘bring it on’.

Cyberpunkers @ Ruby Tramp, Gold Coast (19/11/2010)

Around this time, every year, the Gold Coast’s Surfers Paradise becomes the ‘it’ spot for school leavers. Fresh from graduation, now ex students descend into the sun and sand to welcome themselves into adulthood. Most still underage, the legality issues that surround Schoolies is one not to dive into. That being said, for the adults of the group, unfortunately as Queensland’s schooling age is a year apart from New South Wales regulations, Ruby Tramp has opened its doors and hearts to new meat for one night of pure hell.

 

Thawed out in 2006, two young Italian DJ’s had foreseen the future of dance. Reinventing the decreasing trend, with help from attire, attitude, appearance and amazing music, the Cyberpunkers kick-started the world of modern clubbing. Drawing massive appeal early on, true praise came from their unique approach to the scene. Both hidden behind the original mask idea, to hide true identity – perhaps to save their lives? – the originality and sheer excitement of any performance are considered the 8^th wonder of the world. Travelling all over the world, with several remixes and original tracks to boast, it was about time that the Gold Coast had the opportunity to witness mayhem.

 

Arriving as the duo took control, every single causality seemed to be detached in foul odour and sweat. All sticking to the floor in bodily fluids, the mindless drones stood to obey their leaders. The intensity grew, whilst the crowd began to give in. Throwing limbs, drinks, tables and phone numbers, the Cyberpunkers – safely hidden behind masks and some sort of metal trellis – were in complete command of the zombies in front of them.

 

Engaged in the extreme art of dance, the pack of wolves descended not just onto the floor but attempted to break from their ‘caged’ environment. Climbing the metal enclosure, with hopes of hugging their idols, punters not only risked lives but worried the clubs staff members as the trellis began to give way. Maxing out all levels on their CDJs and even standing on their decks to scratch and beat mash in time with the howling audience, fuelled by the crowd’s participation, the Cyberpunkers were only more than enthusiastic to create more chaos.

 

Only lifting their masks to sip on their cool beverages, or steal a few smooches from several fine looking species, one question lingers… how on earth do they see or hear with these masks on? In all honestly, who really cares. For an act to almost destroy every ones hearing with one simple bass drop, or turn a dance floor into a battle field – complete with girls on shoulders – you gotta hand it to them. With the ever increasing appreciation for dubstep and heavyer tracks growing stronger every day, the masses have spoken.  We demand dirty and filthy, we wants to be clean?

Bleeding Knees Club @ Elsewhere, Gold Coast (12/11/2010)

Quickly becoming somewhat of a tradition, the Gold Coasts own indie-haven Elsewhere has once again opened its doors and hearts to the self proclaimed party starters Graves. Sadly living on the coast, most would argue that the local music scene is in dire straits. Luckily, answering the call for fresh blood, the still crisp creation of these ‘Graves’ events feed the mindless zombies with the best emerging bands and DJ’s around.

 

Quickly becoming the worst best secret out, Graves is an absolute club filler. In fact, a few weekends ago at the previous event, some party animals waited hours just to get inside. On the coast, this is really unheard of, especially for local acts. So once word spread of another night of mayhem, along with the official EP Launch of Yacht Club DJ’s tour buddies Bleeding Knees Club, needless to say that this night will be massive.

 

Still fresh from their support slots around Australian with the Yacht Club DJs, the Gold Coast duo of Alex and Jordan have taken great advantage of another beautiful night on the South-East by storming the small makeshift stage in Elsewhere, blowing every speaker inside with great ease. Already booked until mid-2011, gracing the stage with big names like Lightspeed Champion, The Soft Pack, Neon Indian and Wavves, the future could not be any brighter.

 

Redefining the term raw, and copulating dark blues with rock n roll swagger, the most recent single ‘Bad Guys’ easily rival the likes of The Vines. That being said, you must remember that this is an EP launch. If they sound this tight now, time is on their side. Other floor pumpers I and Have Fun continued to fuel the crowd to unthinkable levels. In true outrageous rock style, a show cannot end without a bit of crowd surfing mid song. This is authentic rock n roll, no strings or hidden gimmicks.

 

While the Sydney based 3-piece Dark Bells delivered one of the most haunting, dark, warped psychedelic performances Elsewhere would have ever witnessed, the third live band for the night and hometown heroes Depths of Balsa welcomed that old 90’s grunge back to the spot light, harder than a punch to the face. Also featuring the likes of resident DJ Audun, Casey Steele, Brisbane’s own Mitzi and the infamous Tropics, music sweetly flowed into the lucky ears of all in attendance until the wee hours of the morning.

 

The coasts most famous underground gathering is gaining popularity at an increasing rate, and without a doubt, will be the most successful revamp of promotion for local talent. It’s about time we all scream, it’s about time.

The Potbelleez @ The Met, Brisbane (05/11/2010)

Have you ever seen the dance floor of a nightclub become a mosh pit? This simple, yet horrifying question is one no clubber wishes to answer, let alone live. Picture this, hidden within minimal light inside the typical designated area of dance, you are suddenly kicked by a crowd surfer or abused for ‘being too tall’. For one rather chaotic night, on Friday the 5^th, one of Brisbane’s most popular and dignified nightlife venues transformed into an active entertainment precinct.

 

With the typical club attendance included inside, true punters battled the rather dense surrounds the moment of entry. While the sweet sounds of Christian Luke bellowed around the multi-level maze that is The Met, swarms formed in the neighboring streets once word that the quartet were backstage ready for action.

 

Believing that a substantial amount of the crowd had no idea what they were in for, the lights dimmed, the floor filled, and the drinks began to spill. Fresh from an Australian tour, after dazzling the beautiful Gold Coast-ians at the GC 600 just a few weeks ago, the Irish/Australian electronic foursome known as The Potbelleez are back again to promote their yet to be released new album Destination Now. Produced by the legendary Paul Mac and Justin Shave, with help from Christian Luke, the follow-up to the self-titled debut and ‘must own’ party album is currently one of the most wished for stocking fillers this Christmas for all party animals.

 

With Dave and Johnny behind the decks keeping the music free flowing, the deliciously beautiful Blu and obvious Miike Snow inspired fan Ilan take their mics with pride. Released in July, the early taste of Destination Now, in the form of electro-driven dance floor filler banger “Hello”, is truly welcomed well. The explosive crowd participation witnessed during the chant-filled chorus is near deafening, however quickly forgotten during the infectious styling’s and beat behind body shaking, bad boy anthem “Trouble Trouble” up next.

 

Crowd surfing soon followed as bodies began to rise on shoulders of sweaty punters. New single Shake It and classic oldie Junkyard only caused greater chaos for the clubs security staff, hopefully being paid overtime for the extremity of their job during this event. Continuing to gain greater energy, the audience were luckily treated with an original ‘pants filling’ remix of Deamdmau5’s ‘Ghosts ‘N’ Stuff’ with a little sample from Fat Boy Slim’s hit ‘Right Here Right Now’ hidden away inside.

 

After an emotional, high octane performance of the air strumming classic ‘Are You with Me’, spectators all around the club demanded more while the band departed the stage. Possibly louder than most rock concerts, the screams and whistles obviously got through as the group of four returned for an encore repeat of the newie ‘Shake It’ to the over-enthused, ultra sweaty participants. Handing duties straight back to friend and maestro Christian Luke, Brisbane were lucky enough to witness one of the country’s best, vibrant and most energetic live bands around today .

 

That being said, answer the original question asked in the first paragraph after going to a Potblelleez gig. The dance floor will never be the same again.

Gold Coast 600 (Day Three) @ Broadwater, Gold Coast (24/10/2010)

Only moments after Sunday’s premier race, the adjacent 600 Sounds concert at Broadwater Parklands kicked well into gear for the now fatigued revellers. Travelling by foot to the location, the final day of festivities did not seem as busy as the nights previous.

 

However, for eager fans, they were fortunately treated to local DJ’s Gerry Morales and Dane DFunk Herden sampling the best techno around. Hidden side of stage, the boys played the big names like ‘Faithless’, ‘Sweedish House Mafia’ and ‘Yeah Yeah Yeah’s’ with incredible electro/fidget breakdowns. As usual, ‘Ducksauce’ had to make its appearance while the cold southern wind picked up from the sea and covered the crowd.

 

Hailing from Adelaide, the four piece known as the Funkoars set the stage on fire – in typical hip-hop form. Apart of the Certified Wise crew, including the Hilltop Hoods, the four members not only showcased old and new material, but also tracks they feature on or helped produced. Even an extended scratch-edit of ‘Killing in the Name Of’ featured in the set. However, the show did not flow as smoothly as hoped. Legal issues arose mid-set due to Queensland Law as live all ages performances must not include swearing. With several microphones turned off and an attempted police prevention to shorten the set, the boys were restricted with their own tunes. Luckily, it was heard that in the studio now and an album due next year, laws will hopefully not stop the Funkoars in the future.

 

While an elevated DJ booth hovered above a stage dominated by a giant LED backdrop, once the mist cleared Connie Mitchell and Angus McDonald emerged to the excitement of the crowd. One of Australia’s prominent dance groups and international successes, Sneaky Sound System have luckily graced the beautiful Gold Coast during their brief three show string for 2010.

 

Working with a diamond studded microphone, the stunning Connie Mitchell took control of the stage. With incredible stage presence and direct power over all, Miss Connie could not help but force all in attendance to dance wildly. Dance floor fillers ‘Kansas City’, ‘I Love It’ and ‘It’s Not My Problem’ saw the sea of fist pumps and frantic jumps to the beat. The audience participation of air guitar strumming to ‘Pictures’ and alien spotting during ‘UFO’ could not match the ecstatic vibe during new song ‘It Hits Me’.

 

On new material, Angus Mitchell tells us the best is yet to come. “If you liked that (It Hits Me), that’s only a sample. What until when the album comes out summer next year. It’s more electronic and banging than the other two. Also, we plan to have a completly new live show when we tour so look out for that.”

 

One of the most obscure and controversial acts to come from Australia, Empire of the Sun closed the 600 Sounds festival for 2010 with a bang. Taking the audience on one hell of a musical adventure, Luke Steel and his parade of mystical dancers dazzle the already astonished and amazed crowd. Though there may have been slight technical difficulties with audio, all was forgiven with the outlandish costume changes and hit singles complied with excessive visuals.

 

As lights glistened off Luke throughout the entire set, the cardboard guitars filled with LED’s for strings played during ‘We Are The People’ may have been the most obscure thing ever seen. Other hits such as ‘Standing on the Shore’ and ‘Half Mast’ were welcomed with great praise but it was the standout ‘Walking on a Dream’ which caused greatest pleasure. While the clouds opened and rain fell, fans continued to dance, sing and glow in the rich ambience. A true sight to witness.

 

With the weekend over, and headaches finally sneaking in, it’s sad to think that everyone must return to their ‘normal’ lives. For the past three days, the pure exhilarating nature from the motorsport and delightful attitude created by music is one that is rare to come across. For ones who were lucky enough to attend, you have witnessed history. For ones who unfortunately missed out, please do not underestimate just how much fun one weekend can be – it’s quite special if you think about it.

Gold Coast 600 (Day Two) @ Broadwater, Gold Coast (23/10/2010)

The Rock ‘N’ Race format, implemented at V8 Supercar events in Townsville and Sydney last year, is into its second day of festivities, and understandably the most thrilling night of all. With an estimated attendance of 58 thousand fans for 2009’s Saturday, tonight’s performances may see one of the largest crowds to ever attend an Australian motorsport event.

 

Promoting Australian rock, Saturday’s acts are all future hall of famers. Not only were the public lucky enough to witness guitar god Richard Clapton and Australian Crawl legend James Reyne, but Melbourne rock and roll band Mondo Rock, the original line-up to The Angels and the iconic Baby Animals. With this great range of Australian rock and roll, the dream line-up was not complete just yet.

 

Formed in Sydney in the 80’s, the heavily sexualised and adopted Australian Job Stevens and his boys in Noiseworks still know how to work a crowd. Utilizing that pure rock vibe, along with possibly the best voice in the game, Jon Stevens may be the coolest rocker around.

 

With a swagger of top 10 albums and a horde of top 10 singles, the older yet still energetic crowd knew every song word for word. Dancing and singing along to ‘Take Me Back’, ‘Hot Chili Woman’ and ‘Touch’, Noiseworks proved that if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it. The old charismatic attitude and wholesome 80’s is to die for. By the end of the set,  the one question everyone wished to ask the aged  Noisework boys is – you planned to return to the studio in 2008, so where is the album? Because we want it now…

 

But what we want more than anything is the headlining act for tonight. The headlining act of the entire festival – The Beach Boys.

 

In terms of singles and album sales, the Beach Boys are the #1 selling American band of all time. Sold in excess of 100 million records, and welcomed to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the group has had more than thirty six top 40 hits in the United States alone. With such rich history, the newly reformed band had been one of the most anticipated events on the Gold Coast calendar.

 

During the 60’s, the band creatively pushed the boundaries creatively and visually, and tonight was no different. Dressing the large forlorn stage in palm trees and surfboards, the cheesy novelties created cheeky grins rather than a tacky disbelief from the audience.

 

With a set list long enough to be three pages, the enthusiastic yet nearly depleted boys from the beach played hit after hit to the delighted and ecstatic punters. With the age range between toddlers to grandparents present, the showcase of dance-along tunes was only made better by the beautiful Gold Coast weather. To be honest, everyone in attendance had a smile from ear to ear and could not stop dancing the whole time.

 

Gliding through such fantastic classics like ‘Help Me Rhonda’, ‘I Get Around’ and ‘Good Vibrations’, Mike Love and Bruce Johnston frequently joked about their old age (“I could hit that note in 63” and using the microphone stand as a walking stick) and love for women (dedicating songs to the women in the audience). Whilst not begging for a nap or serenading women on men’s shoulders, the elderly rockers wooed the audience with great ease. Even game enough for an encore, the electric work from the backing band justified the promoter’s choice for selecting the Beach Boys as headliners.

 

In conclusion, while the fireworks filed the sky, the questionable choice of the Californian rockers have proved that they were not only well suited for this event, but justified their continual greatness and addition into music history. One thing is for certain but, with two nights down and one to go, will the last night be as good as this?

Gold Coast 600 (Day One) @ Broadwater, Gold Coast (22/10/2010)

 

Clocking up speeds of more than 260km per hour around the tight and narrow street circuit of Surfers Paradise, the annual super carnival of entertainment and racing has descending over the Gold Coast. Now in its 20^th year, held over three days with a host of on and off track entertainment, the festival which injects more than $60 million into the local economy has out done its self yet again.

 

Soaking up the weather and atmosphere during the day, the excitement continued well into the night as the Gold Coast came alive with 600 Sounds. Spilling over into the Broadwater Parklands opposite the track, fans were treated to a three day, star-studded parade of musical joy included within their ticket.

 

Hosting 16 Australian and international acts, the large scale-single stage in the luscious Broadwater gardens alongside the beach seemed almost too perfect. The serenity and angelic surrounds, with several elevated hills for viewing, could not have been a better venue choice for the first of what may be many incredible 600 Sounds festivals to come.

 

Just catching the last few tracks by The Only due to the increased traffic flow, crowd favourites Barbra Streisand and Tensnake’s Coma Cat saw revellers dance their way through queues outside the venue. Even patrollers and police officers could not help but hum to the infectious harmonies of Duck Sauce.

 

Hook N Sling – aka Anthony Maniscalco – is nothing but business. Controlling the stage with his incendiary club cuts and choice beats, the explosive dance floor edit of Miami Horror’s ‘Sometimes‘ struck the right chord. During mid sunset, tracks by Miike Snow, Example and Sweedish House Mafia provided that extra petrol to the already exhausted and sun soaked motor-heads of the day.

 

Wowing crowds for over 10 years now, the epic partnership of Kid Kenobi and MC Shureshock are arguable a force not to be reckoned with. Still yet to release a full record together, however with a future EP slated soon, the brothers in beats hit the town of Gold Coast to do what they do best – spit hot fire. As usual, the lyrical gold of Shureshock and killer tunes by Kenobi were a delight to the now fist pumping, intensely sweaty crowd. Deadmau5, Art Vs Science and a rather heavy dubstep take on House of Pain’s ‘Jump Around’ were guaranteed dance floor fillers.

 

The four-piece Irish/Australian electronic band The Potbellez are without a doubt a show stealing act. Looking Oozing in sex appeal, in an all leather outfit, vocalist Blu and IIan Kidron welcomed the rev-heads to the concert in the best way possible – live dance music. Several tracks from the yet to be released second album ‘Destination Now’ were promoted and welcomed with great praise, however the highly successful latest track ‘Hello’ caused the greatest frenzy. The strong raw passion from ‘Trouble, Trouble’, intense bass in ‘Are You With Me’ and energetic air guitar strumming along to ‘Don’t Hold Back’ easily justify that The Potbellez may just be one of the best live dance acts Australia has.

 

After 24 solid hours of touring, it seemed as if the scheduled 30 minute set did not justify the ability and talent of Static Revenger. Notoriously known for his outrageous headphones, the alienesque dj/producer, in a white Michael Jackson styled jacket, did not waste time before dropping his hit ‘I Like That’. Unfortunately, Luciana could not make her appearance on the night. So, with big shoes to fill, up-and-coming newbie Zoe Badwi was under great pressure from the audience. However, the ever-so charming and incredibly beautiful Zoe showcased both tracks ‘Free Falling’ and ‘Release Me’ to the extremely pleased punters.

 

Hurried onto the stage late, voices roared as Ian Carrey got behind the vacant decks. The American house DJ and producer, who has sold over an outstanding 10 million records worldwide, is quite a beloved tourist here down under. With double platinum certification and a string of massive hits, it would be safe to say that Australia wishes to adopt Carrey as their own. Performing cuts from the Bloody Beetroots, Duck Sauce and an unbelievable version of Flo-Rida’s ‘Club Can’t Handle Me’, Carrey dazzled the swam of screaming fans quite easily.

 

With the sea front fireworks well underway, the one thing still on everyone’s mind is that though tonight was epic – it is only just the beginning. There is another two days of this excitement and festivities, with another two days of great music. Who needs sleep anyway?

Boys Noize Records @ Ruby Tramp, Gold Coast (22/10/2010)

Mere months before the king himself, Boys Noize, drops in down under for some summer festivals, the German beatmaker has collected a parade of minions to start the party early. In another round of Boys Noise Records Nights, clubbers and fans at Gold Coast’s Ruby Tramp were lucky enough to catch Strip Steve, Rynecologist and Das Glow play up to their heavyweight titles.

 

For weeks now, this tour has seen the trio travel around Australia – playing in some of the most prestigious clubs out. However, with great speculation, hype and the new 600 Sounds festival the same night, the Gold Coast show could be seen as a risk.

 

And sadly, it did not pay off. Swiftly dodging the crowd of people gathered outside, first assumptions would be that the venue would be swarmed inside. However, unfortunately it was not. During ‘peak’ clubbing times, the vacant dance floor sadly only held a handful of ravers, while the bar and couches surrounding were social hotspots.

 

Following in the footsteps of label boss and studio mentor Boys Noize, the originally slated for an April tour, saw Das Glow, Rynecologist and Strip Steve work in their natural element. Eventually, the stage and DJ booth saw significant foot traffic from real fans. Keeping up with the techno, electronic and electro house vibe, the sweet tunes that bellowed from the speakers at least made most in attendance tap their feet.

 

While the Canadian DJ Rynencologist welcomed the crowd to soothing house, both French based master minds did not hesitate to drop the funk, the beats and the incredible remix’s the label has produced.  If only the crowd would not have been more appreciative and more aware of what exactly they are witnessing.

 

Working with swagger of cuts by Mr. Ozio, Daft Punk, Tensnake and the incredible helmet wearing geniuses Daft Punk, Boys Noize Record Night has successfully lived up to its expectations. However, sadly the unenthusiastic crowd did dampen the experience for all. If only the weekend was not as clustered or the dates where different, this event would have gone off. With the great potential, lets see round two soon.

One Many Party (Soulwax) @ Elsewhere, Gold Coast (17/10/2010)

Still fresh from Australia’s youngest, most energetic and brightest festival Parklife, Steve Slingeneyer from Soulwax has unofficially found his second home in Australia. On tour with his DJ persona of One Man Party, since the beginning of October, this self proclaimed party starting Belgian drummer has finally found his way to the Gold Coast for one hell of a night.

 

In a horrible attempt to ‘indie up’, the parade of over-dressed, 20-20 visioned natives outside Elsewhere swiftly produced strong embarrassment and isolation. Obviously flocking to their home away from home, the Coast’s most underground and fashionable club is stylishly hidden behind a derelict wooden door.

 

Upstairs a filthy narrow staircase, the crowd was one you would not expect at your local tavern or pub. Often abused by the public, you must hand it to the misguided crowd of ‘hipsters’ – they have brilliant music taste. Sure most would have raided their grandfather’s wardrobe an hour before, and the 3D glasses from when you saw Avatar might look cool, local boys Elke kick-started the night superbly.

 

Gracing the makeshift stage located at the far back, the youngsters were quick to create bliss. Their 80’s influenced synth pop tunes bought most to their feet in a flash. It is no doubt that while a misguided and unplanned stage dive bought the most applause, this live band will only get better as the days go by.

 

Mingling with the audience just like a local, Steve seemed to be in his element. Soaking up the atmosphere while behind the decks, the Belgium could not control his body during most songs. Dancing to Soulwax mixes of The Chemical Brothers and Daft Punk, it was the reworked versions of classic Guns and Roses, Hot Chip and Beethoven which caused the greatest frenzy.

 

However, the night did not run all so smoothly. Plagued by constant problems with the decks and sound, Steve was often seen yelling and waving his arms frantically to the failing technology. Capitalizing with humour, several rap based chants like “Fuck Technology” and “Please Don’t Pour Drinks On to My CD-J’s” were sung through the speakers. Sadly, technology does not always work, but this the crowd were more than forgiving – it was Steve Slingeneyer after all.

 

Once dropping the headphones to the floor, the sea parted as Soulwax’s drummer made his way to – you guessed it – a drum set. Destroying the kit to a backing track, with guest vocals most of the overwhelmed spectators, an impromptu cover of ‘Another One Bites the Dust’ saw not just how incredible of a musician Steve Slingeneyer is, but how horrible the Gold Coast sings.

 

With ringing ears, aching feet and the sun finally rising, this celebration sadly had to come to its end. Thanks to one man, and his outrageous travelling party, he will be receiving invitations long into the future.

Peter Mays (of PNAU) @ Platinum, Gold Coast (08/10/10)

As Australians, it is un-patriotic to blast our impressive music scene. Whether it be rock or rap, this sunburnt country currently boasts some of the greatest acts in history. That being said, once the Gold Coast’s prestige nightclub Platinum announced that one half of ARIA-Award-winning PNAU was locked in, not even the torrential rain outside could deter the lovers.

Formed in the mid-nineties after meeting at school, the Sydney based dance duo consisting of Nick Littlemore and Peter Mayes are one of the most influential, energetic and respected musical acts today. Fresh from the 2011 Big Day Out line-up announcement, a new album in production and work with Elton John, multi-instrumentalist and producer Peter Mayes has temporarily traded in the guitar and keyboard for a case of CDs.

Begging not to be reviewed, Mayes jokingly asked if no one could listen to him tonight. “I’m not even that good, honest,” he laughed while hiding behind his hands. However, taking control of the decks in the early hours of Saturday morning, the drowned crowd were welcomed instantly to an electro session of great proportions.

DJing with a cheeky grin, the crowd could not help but immediately fall in love with his charismatic nature and outstanding music choice. While massive club hits like Pon De Floor and Duck Sauce were received with the typical cheers, it was Avicii and Sebastien Drum’s My Feelings for You which caused the greatest applause.

Without warning, several circles formed on the dance floor with only the bravest entering. Highlights included an ill-attempted worm and the world’s worst robot, but the truly magnificent aspect was the obvious sheer enjoyment this bought to all.

Smiling from ear to ear, blinded by the lights and now currently deaf due to the bass, the beautiful audience inside the club could barely stand from dancing so much. You could easily blame anthems such as It Just Won’t Do, Miami 2 Ibiza and PNAU’s own Baby for this occurrence. With that in mind, remember this for next time – do not blame your shoes for the blisters, blame the DJ.

Still raining outside, and as dreary as ever, the now exhausted crowd leave the venue filled from the night’s scrumptious offering. While it may have not been the full band on show tonight, it was still an exhilirating set. If that was a taste of PNAU for the future, on behalf of everyone, “Bring on 2011”.