jason Mackaway

distinctly different

Pseudo Mind Hive

It’s been a long stretch between innings but we are back; smarter, stronger and more COVID-safe than ever.

The venue?
The newly located Cherry Bar.

The performers?
The Melbourne psch rock group Pseudo Mind Hive

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What a way to return to live music. Pseudo’s sound has developed so much since I last saw them. The overwhelming wash that the guitars, combined with the drive and groove of the bass, and the energy from the drums create an unforgettable sound and feeling when exerpienced live. They blend sounds from bands such as the Beatles and Led Zeppelin together in ways you don’t expect.

Psuedo are such a fun band to groove out to and let the music wash over you and take you away.

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There and Back Again (Spin Off)

2 DAYS | 16 DRIVING HOURS | 1 FESTIVAL

One of the main reasons this is being posted so long after the fact is that I’ve had to gather my thoughts about and search for the right words to describe Childish Gambino. I’m still not sure I’ve been able to do him or the event justice, but seeing as it’s been a few months this post is way overdue.

One Thursday evening, a friend and I plunged into the 8 hour drive from Melbourne to Adeliade. Arriving at 3 in the morning and spending the night in the car, we decided it was more than worth it for the cost effiecient and star studded line up that was Spin Off - for anyone unaware, Spin Off is a sideshow to Splendour in the Grass. It was held at the Adelaide showgrounds, which were setup in a fucking super user firendly way, with the exception of having only one exit at the end of the day. Besides that, the setup of having a break between each performer was magical. It allowed the crowd to go to the bathroom, grab some food and drink between each set. Top job Spin Off. Also the tent we were in was such a huge space but set up in such a way that it also felt intimate, which is incredible considering that there were a few thousand people in attendance.

Personally I believe Spin Off is a fantastic idea that I think more multiday festivals should adopt. Tickets were more than reasonable to see some of the largest acts currently in the world. I do admit that I have a personal bias towards one-day festivals, though.

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Not wanting to drag this post out into a thesis by being critical of every act and every element of the festival, I will focus on 2 acts who I believe stood out on a day where every act was amazing. I will point out that these 2 artists were the main reason for me attending - they were the initial hook that got me interested in attending this festival.

Ocean Alley - The grooviest band I am yet to see live. I have never seen a crowd sway in the way that they did for Ocean Alley. The live sound and atmosphere lived up to my lofty expectations, as their music had the same charm and charisma that it does on the record. It was full of fun energy, everyone was tight, and the vocals were on point. Just your classic Sunday arvo jam for everyone to have a bev, chill out and forget about the dificulties of life.

Childish Gambino - Here’s the trouble. No matter what words I write, no matter how long I stew on this, I can never do this performance justice. Childish is a force unto himself. For months now I have grappled with how to discuss his stage prescence, performance, and his undeniable effect as a cultural influence. He commands the crowd’s attention in such a way that you don’t even notice he is doing it. He’s able to demonstrate his control of the band in a fun and musical way. He controls the tempo of the gig, determining whether it should be upbeat and full of energy or if we should bring it down. After seeing him live I am not surprised in any way by his success with any and all creative endeavours he has ventured into. A very smart, very creative soul who has my adoration. Thank you for allowing us to attend your church.

P.S. Just in case anyone is interested, in order of appearance the bands I saw were:
Mallrat - Hockey Dad - Wolf Alice - Ocean Alley - Ball Park Music - Catfish and the Bottlemen - Childish Gambino.

Does Anyone Else Remember Sunnyboys?

A few weeks back I went to watch Little Green perform at Sunnyboy Beach Club; which I’m sure we can all agree is an amazing name for a venue.

The Sunnyboy Beach Club resides in Mordiallic. Tucked away on the coast of Port Phillip Bay, over the past few years I’ve driven past it numerous times and never realised it was there.

For those of you not in the know, Little Green is a Sydney based solo singer/songwriter. She has insane textural and dynamic changes for a solo performer, and is a master at what she does. Having crafted her own unique style, combining a loop and autoharmonising pedal with jazz influenced chord voicings, upbeat funky rhythms and an easy-listening voice, she demands your attention.

By looping she creates a thick texture with independent, melodic lines at the start of each piece before allowing herself to drop down to only her voice and guitar for verses, in turn allowing the loop to kick in just as we arrive at the chorus. This huge dynamic shift is something you rarely get from solo performers, yet Little Green does it so naturally and with an ease as though she’s the only person who could do it. The cherry on the top of this musical cake, and my personal highlight of her performances are her improvisational skills on her flute. They are as skilful as they are reserved, knowing when to flurry and when to pull back, complimented by her impressive range of expressive techniques.

With her sets containing both original songs and covers it is hard to say which is better. She performs her covers in her own style, making the songs her own and feeling right at home when performing them. She also cleverly chooses songs that a wide variety of people would know, can sing along to and already enjoy. Her original songs are as equally great with super catchy melodies, upbeat fun riffs and interesting chord progressions. It is in her originals where she really takes advantage of the looping and the improv flute, allowing herself to completely let lose.

Little Green as a performer is upbeat, uplifting and very grounded. Her music is super easy to listen to and if you don’t check her out you’re not just doing her a disservice, but yourself too.

Website: https://littlegreenmusic.com/home
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/littlegreenartist/

The Travelling Musician - Tasmania and the East Coast - A Twiggy Home

This post is well overdue and has taken some time. Some of that time can be attributed to the ending of this journey, combined with working 6 days weeks and moving into a new home, but some of it is also my inability to justly put this experience into words. Some elements I manage better than others, but I can’t sit here and perpetually re-edit this post.

From the end of April through to the beginning of July I lived out of my van; travelling around Tasmania and along the East coast of mainland Australia. During that time I released some music, played some gigs, shared time with friends and family, and explored some of the scenery Australia has to offer.

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The tour began at the Farm Cafe; a beautiful, partially outdoor venue that was plagued with the worst weather Melbourne had produced all year (up to that point). The only day to rain in weeks, if you could describe that immense deluge as rain and not as a flash flood. Thankfully though plenty of people still turned out in support of the event.

The night began with Counterfeit Milk, a three piece indie band with a vigorous upbeat sound that could make the most rigid of schedules float freely with wind. They were followed by Lucy Morgan Music who’s voice could melt butter and ukulele skills could turn that butter into a cake. Her unique and angelic sound almost made the crowd forget how utterly cold and miserable the weather was. Performing some of my orginals for the first time definitely got the heart pumping; however in my eyes the launch of A Twiggy Home was successful.

My next performance stop was the Lass O’Gowrie in Newcastle with The Watts and Big Riles & MC Sabby D, both of whom had the venue jumping for the duration. Following Newcastle was Brackets and Jam, a community driven mini festival held on Kincumba Mountain on the night of the full moon (or as close as possible). The little stone building we were using had a wonderfully warm feeling and was full of some very serious sound equipment, and knowledgable and professional volunteers. The event ran smoothly, had delicious food, and featured the nicest surprise of all: an authentic drum circle. Afro Moses was one of the other performers and was incredible. A multi-instrumentalist of many unsual instruments with a really cool selection of pedals on his pedal board. His stage prescence was no laughing matter as he was able to get the crowd up and dancing and singing along.

The last musical stop on the tour was Valve Bar in Sydney. It was a night of variety; jazz to solo acoustic to heavy electronic. Little Green began the night with some wonderful looping skills and a strong approach to an autoharmoniser. Georgina Grimshaw followed up with her sweet voice and strong story telling. I was next with my lemony shirt and usual lack of words to describe myself. Followed by an unamed jazz trio that were the tightest group ever especially for their first live performance ever. Final act was Zaidan, a heavy electronic artist who plays bangers but creates them through loops with real instruments used in the process.

This experience was a whirlwind of highs and lows, and unexpected things. It was such a great first step and trial at living the life I want to. I am hungry for more and I finally have some of my own music out in the world. I want to say a huge thank you to anyone who came to a gig, bought a CD or supported this EP or trip in any way shape or form. I had such an amazing time doing this and am so grateful for those who afforded me the opportunity to do so.

The Greatest Show on Earth

Once again I’ve been blessed with access to the internet, and thought I make the most of it by getting another overdue post out into the world for all my avid readers to feast upon (and by avid readers I mean my mother).

While in Newcastle I had the privilege of attending The Greatest Show on Earth, at the Stag and Hunter. A wicked bar in Mayfield, Newcastle that is very supportive of it’s local live music. A hidden gem in a city that, in my opinion, deserves more dedicated music venues.

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The Greatest Show on Earth, of course, is the current show performed by Newcastle based band The Pits, whose music sounds as if Panic at the Disco had a baby with Cat Empire and only let that baby listen to Parkway Drive. I’ve never heard a band perform this strange cross-section of genres, yet alone make these genres feel as though they were different pieces of the same but somewhat logical puzzle - It should however be noted that I have a personal bias towards all three standalone genres; so there was no way I was going to dislike this.

Despite the stage being flooded by six performers, no one stood on each others toes (literally and figuratively). They had a cohesive aesthetic that only added to their enormous stage presence; made up of an abundance of audience interaction, along with a comfort and ease to performing and presenting that would coax a smirk out of the most ardent of frown enthusiasts. Personally I believe not enough acts consider their visual aesthetic, especially while on stage. This is not the case for The Pits who’s matching attire was a very nice cherry-on-top, playing into the over-the-top nature of the overall performance.

Musically the band showed a large range of abilities; from very technical, intricate guitar solos (comparable to those within metal-core and other metal genres), to some very effective vocal harmonies (which I am surprised as anyone that they weren’t written by Brendon Urie himself), to a wicked brass section that if anything should be featured more in their music. By punctuating their originals with covers such as Bohemian Rhapsody, they gave everyone in the audience the opportunity to sing along.

The Greatest Show on Earth is one to see if The Pits are ever in your neck of the woods. However if that isn’t happening anytime soon they are definitely worth the 20 minutes of listening time on Spotify. In the words of The Pits,

“(they’ve) been The Pits, you’ve been the audience and I’ve been the snobby musician criticising his peers”

Ready, Freddy, Drop

Here it is, the first of many extremely overdue posts. I’ve regained internet access, the ability to type, and have finished procrastinating my life away. So strap yourselves in, say goodbye to your night, and come along for the journey.

The final post of March Madness has arrived and to no surprise I’ve once again found myself in line at The Forum; this time to watch the intoxicating Fat Freddy’s Drop. This gig went off in a way I’ve never experienced before. There was something remarkable about being in the audience before the band even took to the stage; from the moment we arrived the crowd was pumping. The room had a buzz the likes of which I’ve never felt at any other venue or performance, something I put down to the excited fans who had waited years to see a vibrant and energetic line up. It was amazing to bear witness to the crowd swelling and singing along at volumes not normally heard with band encouragement, let alone to do it off their own bat.

The music was exactly what you’d expect from Fat Freddy’s. Bouncing beats, swinging tunes and blaring horns. The trombonists was an amazing performer with incredible stage presence; even pulling out a sousaphone towards the end of the gig. While it could be seen as a little gimmicky, I found it to be an amazing visual, and thought it was great showmanship. I mean who on Earth uses a sousaphone in a contemporary setting such as this? Fat Freddy’s Drop, that’s who.

A great performance, great music and a great crowd for a very memorable night.

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A House of Sand and Swell

Beach House took to the stage at the Forum theatre Friday March 8 supported by an impossibly hard to find band named Elizabeth. If anyone has any information on how to find Elizabeth or their music I implore you to let me know; as countless attempts and online searches have proven fruitless.

Between the acts the strangest yet somehow most fitting background music for a band named Beach House was played - surf music. At first it was super odd and felt out of place but there was a poetic irony to it that I couldn’t help but love. I definitely have a personal bias seeing as I low-key love surf music but it was fun to listen to while waiting for the main act, and it left more of an impression on me than any other incidental music between acts.

Now to the main point of this post. Plain and simple; Beach House were amazing! Their music was a literal wall of sound and with every drum hit or struck bass note the sound would wash over me, rattling my bones, pounding my chest - giving me that oh so sweet physical reaction to the sound. Not only was the show physically stimulating but the light show was so embedded and entwined with the music that they were basically the same entity. The lights flickered and changed as the music changed and progressed; different colours and patterns, interacting in a way I’ve never seen before.

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Beach House is not the sort of music I listen to regularly, that’s not to say I don’t enjoy their music, but my point is their live performance was one of the best I’ve been to recently. Visually they were astounding and the way they recreated their sound live was very impressive. I hope they make it back to Australia sometime soon as I would, without a doubt, attend their show again.

Busby Marou Take on Belgrave

March Music Madness continued as we ventured out to Belgrave, an outer suburb of Melbourne, just a little under an hour’s drive away. Thursday March 7th saw Sooki Lounge play host to Busby Marou with support from Collin Lillie.

Sooki was an smaller venue which allowed it to feel quite full while keeping the gig very intimate. Vocally, Lillie was very reminiscent of Cat Stephens, even covering a Cat Stephens song. He had a charismatic stage presence and many stories to boot; although these were sometimes difficult to understand due to his heavy accent.

This gig was the first of the tour promoting Busby Marou’s upcoming album. Five years have passed since I last saw them perform, but musically they were just as skilful, fun and entertaining; flying guitar/uke solos, sweet harmonies and playful melodies.

For me, my favourite part of watching Busby Marou perform is that the songs are performed differently each time, not just the way they are on the record; there is always reason to head back out to another Busby Marou gig.

They were able to finish the night in the most amazing way possible; an unplugged campfire song made possible by the intimate setting.

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Macedon Ranges Music Festival - Mark III

March Music Madness is well and truly here. Once again you will be inundated with posts across the next few weeks.

Saturday March 2nd I was again able to volunteer at the amazing Macedon Ranges Music Festival - a festival whose profits go to the Cambodian Kids Foundation.

The weather was warm, the food and drink flowing, and the music pumping.

I’m always amazed how many artists and volunteers are happy to give their time to help out, without them the festival wouldn’t be the amazing event it is. It’s always great to see just how many people turn out each year to support the event.

If you’re looking for more information, want to donate, help out, or volunteer next year, you can find it at:

https://www.macedonrangesmusicfestival.org/

http://cambodiankidsfoundation.org/


John Williams Jazz

In the words of Barry B. Benson;

“Do you like Jazz”

A few Saturdays ago the Paris Jazz Cat played host to The Incredible Works of John Williams, a gig where John Williams’ music was performed in the style of jazz, arranged by Toshi Clinch.

Having never been to The Paris Jazz Cat before, my expectations were pleasantly exceeded. If you were to imagine how a jazz venue should look, then the Paris Jazz Cat would be exactly what you envision. The room was sold out with young and old to boot, every seat around every table filled. All the standing room taken. The walls and ceiling lined with jazz posters and assorted instruments and velvet curtains clung to walls.

The musical arrangements were full and well thought out, for a 9 piece band they had gorgeous harmonies, soaring solos, and stylistic variety throughout their sets. The overall tone and aesthetic was sonically and visually pleasing, with the cherry on top being songs that everyone knows and loves. Classics such as Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, Star Wars, and my personal favourite of John Williams’ soundtracks, Catch Me If You Can. My one and only disappointment from the night was the severe lack of the Cantina Theme, but that is a minor complaint in a sea of positives.

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The most amazing thing about this gig though was not the genre change, or the arrangements, but the fact that the band was compromised of a 50/50 split of professionals and students. Something the audience would have been blissfully unaware of if not noted by the band between songs. The students blended in seamlessly, slotting in perfectly as accompanists, improvising enjoyable solos, and doing an all round bang up job.

Congratulations to Toshi Clinch for putting on an amazing show, for creating amazing arrangements, and for creating a band that allows young musicians a chance to perform in a professional setting, and work with industry professionals and venues from a young age. Congratulations to the students and to the whole band.

INTERVIEW: Matt Walter - Music Photographer

The music industry needs more people like Brisbane photographer Matt Walter. Someone doing what they love and attempting to help those around them. Last week I was fortunate enough to steal some of his time to ask him a few questions.

How did you get involved in photography and at what point did you realise it was what you wanted to do?

“I started with photography as a hobby in 2010 or so. It wasn’t until 2012 I started to feel comfortable wanting to do it on a more serious basis, but still it was largely a hobby. I just wanted to actually entertain committing to it. From around 2015 onwards I took it really seriously. But I still have fun with it and put photography before business. Probably why I’m far from rich haha”

Why do you continue to do photography, what keeps you motivated?

“Music photography is so important to me because you’re never done. There’s always a new photo to take, a new moment to capture… Whatever it is, it remains undocumented. I see some improvement in my work each show, and I hope others can see it, too. But if they don’t, that’s ok because I take photos for the band and for me. If anyone else likes them, great! As soon as I care too much about other people that consume my work, I overthink. Overthinking is the enemy of motivation, I think. You spend all your time thinking about something that really doesn’t matter, and you run out of time to actually go and do it.”

How do you decide who you work with? Do you only work with bands who you listen to and like?

“This is a great question, and I’m surprised I don’t get asked it more often. There’s a language between the artist and the photographer that can be learnt to a certain degree, but it’s kinda like a vibe. I do have to like the artist, both musically and as a person, but most importantly I need to understand their music. Every time you see an artist perform, there are subtle changes to the music that influence how the artist moves. For example, Luke Boerdam from Violent Soho annunciates from one side of his mouth but also faces his guitar in the opposite direction. So you’re left with this conflict of, do you get the mouth screaming the lyric, or do you display more of the guitar? Does the guitar make sense in the moment, or is it a vocal moment? Will the photo even read as a vocal moment when you look back on it? Similarly, Chris from WAAX flings his guitar most times during one of their songs, but not in others. He often lifts his leg when he does it and twists his body, so you have to factor in your angle a little bit more to have the thrash translate enough. Knowing bands on that deeper level or in a way that is understood with patterns is awesome, but sometimes you love a band and their music so much but just can’t seem to find those common threads. Sometimes I feel there are bands that I want to work with so much, and always offer my work to, but I feel deep down there’s a better photographer out there for them. I want the best work for every band, and honestly, no one can be the perfect fit for every band no matter how much you want to be.”

What is your favourite song at the moment?

“My favourite song at the moment is “Quick To Judge” by Apart From This. I’ve always thought Apart From This were such an amazing band and was so bummed they didn’t continue on. But! Now we have the band LOSER, which includes Tim from Apart From This, Craig from The Bennies and Chris from The Smith Street Band. Their first EP was such a banger, and I’m sure their record is going to be amazing.”

What is your ultimate goal for your career? If photography could take you anywhere, where would it be?

“I don’t have any goals for my career. Things can change so quickly and I’m so afraid of disappointment. There’s a lot of ‘no’ in the industry, and a lot of opportunity. Things can change. If I anticipate too much, I’d be too distracted on what’s happening right now. If I’m keeping it vague and loose trying to answer your actual question, I would say I hope it will allow me to document some amazing bands that don’t even exist yet, capturing memories they will hold onto long after their band that doesn’t even exist yet is done.”

Thanks for your time!

“Thanks for speaking with me, man!”

If you want to hear more of Matt’s thoughts, you can check out his photography podcast Filter, a short form podcast providing advice for photographers. Answering questions and providing a summary of Matt’s personal experiences in an interesting and informative format.

Podcast: https://photographypodcast.com.au
Website : https://mattwalterphoto.com

Bizarre Big Band Blowout

Just on a month ago I attended one of the strangest gigs of my life.

On your average Tuesday night, myself and a couple of party-shirt wearing friends ventured into the city to watch a big band play. The gig was held in a private members club, hidden amongst Melbourne’s alleyways.

After finding the inconspicuous entrance we entered and immediately ventured back about 50 years. Inappropriately and flamboyantly under-dressed, we pressed on, sticking out like sore thumbs as we wandered directionless attempting to find the gig.

Entering a section clearly for members only we were quickly ushered upstairs to the performance area where we found ourselves a table amongst the crowd. We were easily the youngest in the room by 20-25 years; emphasised by the fact that four people managed to have a kip during the performance.

The band was actually a lot of fun, they were all sight reading and were insanely tight given that fact. Their tone was crisp and they played the perfect variety of music. They shared around the lead lines and the solos and they just looked like they were having fun, which in turn allowed us to have fun.

The double cherry on top of all the oddness that occurred on this night was the 27 (yes twenty seven) duck paintings on the wall, combined with a woman falling down the stairs with no reaction from the staff.

Guitarz R Blazin' @ 303

Hey you!
Yes you.
Do you like music? Do you like guitar music?

If you answered yes, and even if you answered no, then you would love last weeks gig.

Bec Goring - Maximillian - Jimmy O'Hare

At the classic location of bar 303, these three tore up the stage. 

Bec had a to-die-for guitar tone complimented by her amazing chord choices. Which coincidentally were my absolute favourite thing about her music. Her on stage jokes and stories were also highly entertaining. 

The bass from the 7th string of Maximillian’s guitar was so incredibly warm. The variation of pieces and styles throughout his set, his relaxed stage presence, and downright amazing guitar skills create an atmosphere that keeps you wanting more. His newly added stomp box was also a welcome surprise.

Jimmy O’Hare has some amazing musical talent, and it was on show. From percussive guitar, to singing he has it all covered. Different tunings, thumbpicks, no picks, originals and covers; Jimmy had a diverse and exciting set full of energy and emotion.

The night ended with two pieces played together by Jimmy and Maximillian.
The perfect way to shut up shop.  

P!nk

As this is a late post I'll keep it nice and short

I was lucky enough to attend P!nk with my mum, brother's girlfriend and her mum. It was a great excuse to head home and see family and friends.

The concert, as you'd expect, was phenomenal. The acrobatics, the dancing and the music were all over the top in the best way possible! They had clever ways of including artists in duets who couldn't be there, and in my opinion a really cool and different stage set up that they took full advantage of.

Another nice little touch was between acts a live DJ performed classics that everyone could sing along to while waiting. 

It was an all round wonderful experience; my personal highlight would have to be P!nk covering Smells like Teen Spirit. So unexpected but she absolutely nailed it.

"Hermeto Magnético" Bellissimo

I am well and truly behind the times with this post but, a few weeks ago I went to a concert that was completely different in the best way possible.

Hermeto Magnético were phenomenal. I loved the unusual textures they achieved by the odd ensemble. The combination of these instruments was something I had never heard before, but am looking forward to again. Three flutes, voice, guitar, bass guitar, percussion and mandolin. The amount of work they had put into their preparation for the gig was evident and boy was it worth it. 

Sidenote: The Jazzlab is a gem of a venue. Hidden away amongst the noise of Sydney St in Brunswick, it is very aesthetically pleasing along with the expected venue services.

Candlelight Vox Rocks

The human voice is a magical thing; I was pleasantly reminded of this when I went to watch a friend perform as part of the Candlelight Vox Choir.

The overall sound of the choir was gorgeous, and it was such a nice change of pace to hear some new music being performed - no disrespect to the classics, but you can only listen to Mass in Bm by Bach so many times before it starts to lose it's appeal.

This was such a fun little performance to attend, they've got a great premise only performing works by living composers, and they have a great sound that I would love to hear again.

It was also fantastic to be able to support a friend doing what they love; so a friendly reminder to support your friends' endeavours because they're worth it. #L'Oréal

 

The Appeal of Steel

Satirical hair metal, need I say more?

If you haven't heard of Steel Panther do yourself a favour, go now, on a journey of self discovery, and find out who they are.

Last week or so, I was witness to what was one of the best shows I've encountered in my short time upon this earth. First of all the Forum Theatre is an amazing venue everyone should see with their own eyes at some point in their life. Large, open and gorgeous classical statues perched high above the mosh area, creating an atmosphere iconic to the Forum. Supported by a plethora of huge seating booths, all with a great view of the stage so no one misses the magic.

Having seen Steel Panther before I falsely believed I knew what I was in for, but boy was I wrong. As per usual their music and aesthetic were top notch. Stage antics while performing? Uh, of course. Banter between songs? Are you kidding, they could have inappropriately joked the night away before anyone had realised they hadn't performed a song. 

But the highlight of the night, had to be their second set. For someone who's never been to the 80's, I sure as hell felt like this night was the closest I would ever get. Not only conceptually is it awesome, but they hit the nail on the head, and they blew me away. Hearing classics from the likes of White Snake, Ozzy Osbourne, and Motörhead (to name a few) in their original genre, performed at the level they were, was an absolute treat. 

Props to you Steel Panther, you definitely lowered the bar, went balls out and made us all feel the steel.

 

Flower Power

It's the final post now!
*sung to the Final Countdown*

 

A few weeks back I was fortunate enough to perform at the International Flower and Garden Show.

Across two days, we played 8 hours of music in one of the more scenic places I've performed. The show itself was spectacular, having never attended before I was impressed by the range and skill, that people in the garden industry possessed. Knowing that Carlton Gardens would soon be returned to it's normal state of being, made the quick transition to floral nirvana only more impressive. 


If you're into gardening or flowers this is definitely one to check out next time round,
Jason.

It'll Knock Your Hot Socks Off!

What are Hot Socks? And why on Earth would you wear them? 
These questions and many more to be answered on the coming episode of Nesting Blog!

 

*insert blog theme music*

 

Previously on Nesting Blog, our intrepid hero had overcome his first music festival. As this chapter came to a close he found himself at a loss. Where was he to go for more live music?!

Searching the plethora of options that forms the music scene of Melbourne, Jason was enticed to Dizzy's Jazz Club by the Hot Socks Big Band. 

After escaping the evil clutches of the 9 to 5, he ventured to the far away land of Richmond. Dodging the perils of public transport and narrowly escaping rushes of traffic, he managed to arrive in the nick of time. 

Once inside, our hero was swamped by the heat of the socks and surrounded by the sweet subtleties of the band; a buffet of big band genres for our hero to indulge. 

With great gratification he watched, as his new favourite big band battled against the evil End of the Set. The Big Band fought hard; sweeping solos and beautiful beats were thrown at the End of the Set.

Alas, this was not enough, eventually time ran out and the performance ended. But little did the End of the Set know, more gigs are on their way.

Can the Hot Socks beat the heat of the End of the Set? Or will our heroes once again run out of time? Tune in next to the next instalment of Nesting Blog to find out!

 

**CREDITS**

Thanks to Kit Millais for inviting me to such a nice venue to hear him and his big band play. Getting a big band up and performing in the time-frame he has is something to marvel at. The soon to be iconic hot socks give something different and exciting to a well established style of music. Not only does the audience have a nice, new visual to look for, but the sound and cohesiveness of the group was something to be impressed by, even more so, given the short amount of time from conception to reality. 

If anyone wants to know what on earth I'm talking about in this post, you can find Hot Socks Big Band on all social media channels.

See you at their next gig,
Jason.

 

Macedon Ranges Music Festival - Mark II

Whoa, look who's back online!

After a busy month, I have plenty to share. Which depending on your feelings toward me is either phenomenal or disastrous. Just as all good/bad things come in threes, so too will these regaling posts.

 

Post 1 will attempt to convey the tale of performing at my first music festival - Macedon Ranges Music Festival.

 

A warm day in the outset of Autumn, specifically March the third. Our bandwagon brimming, as we journeyed out to unknown land of Macedon. Bedizened in our identical lemon suits, Habibi and I took to the stage to perform our unrivalled sound check, followed by our trademarked replicable set. Wowing the audience as much as distracting them with our ill-favoured outfits, the spectacular set went off without a hitch! A new crowning jewel in the very quiet and uneventful career of Nesting. 

 

On a more serious note, this festival is something I have enjoyed being a part of for the past two years and is something great to be involved with. The fact that it is run by volunteers with all proceeds going to the Cambodian Kids Foundation is so unique and amazing. Both times I've attended, the festival has been full of food and drink, music, and a fantastic atmosphere. I'd like to thank the organisers, volunteers and performers who make it possible; and encourage everyone to get involved next year even if it is just as a spectator.