Holy Holy @ Miami Marketta Review

Off the back of their second single release earlier this month, Holy Holy have played a string of shows as part of their Darwinism Tour and we headed along to catch them nearing the end of their national circuit at Miami Marketta, Gold Coast.

Warming up the crowd was Brisbane musician Alex L’Estrange followed by Sydney band I Know Leopard. People were slowly spilling in during their sets, enjoying beers and burgers in the outside market.

The market was obviously not opened to its full capacity on this quiet Thursday night as only a few food and beverage stalls were open. It was an interesting venue similar to The Triffid, Newstead, with an outdoor beer garden environment with food stalls, a bar and a large indoor stage.

The crowd moved quickly inside to the stage as Holy Holy were due to play.

The set started strong and was in full force from the get go. I was immediately taken by front man Timothy Carroll’s flawless voice. He sung every note perfectly and effortlessly.

The bass layer was inaudible in the first few tracks but got some volume further into the set. By this stage, the levels sat at a comfortable volume with a warm and clear sound for the remainder of the show.

Holy Holy played through a collection of hits including ‘History’ and ‘House Of Cards’. They also played their new singles, ‘Darwinism’ and ‘Elevator’, as well as a few new tracks from their highly anticipated album ‘Paint’.

With only one album under their belt so far and one on the way, they had a surprisingly large and recognisable collection of songs.

Despite this, the crowd were surprisingly subdued considering the amount of hair and tall tees in the room; the most enthusiasm radiating from the most mature member of the crowd.

There wasn’t a lot of conversation or banter from the band in between songs and although Holy Holy seemed engaged in what they were playing, all except Timothy showed little energy or movement on stage.

They ended the set with ‘You Cannot Call For Love Like A Dog’ and then made their way back to the stage for a very obviously orchestrated encore.

Overall it was a strong and enjoyable show. They did, however, have a reliance on unnecessary guitar solos used to bridge gaps throughout the set.

Miami Marketta proved itself to be the perfect venue for a relaxed night out to enjoy live music over a beer with mates.

Holy Holy have a lot of momentum at the moment as they wrap up their tour and finish the year on a high before moving towards the release of their album in February next year.

Read more about Holy Holy's performance at Miami Marketta here. 

The End Of The Line

It was a Saturday night and I had no plans; a rare occasion and opportunity for me. After bingeing on pizza at home, I noticed a flyer on the fridge about some markets and music that was happening down the road. I decided to wander on down and see what was happening…

It was a long walk to get there (I got lost) but eventually I had stumbled upon The End Of The Line Festival in Woolloongabba. What I saw was a street festival full of locals sipping craft beer with their Frenchies and listening to some dank DJ set while sitting on hay bales. Not long after finishing a beverage of my own, I decided to look further. 

The End Of The Line Festival definitely improved from here on out. There were food trucks and market stalls lining the street. The existing restaurants and bars were full of people with plenty of atmosphere. At the end of the street I saw a second stage with a band playing and I knew I was at the right end of the block party. 
The only full set I really got to see were Melbourne based band Teeth & Tongue. Despite having an extremely long sound check, their first track in particular was pretty atrocious from a sound perspective. The levels were all wrong and I couldn't hear any keyboard. A few tracks in and they warmed up and the sound guys got their shit together. 

I quickly grew to like them. Leading lady, Jess Cornelius's voice was reminiscent of Hayley Mary from The Jezabels and Siouxsie Sioux. She admitted to feeling a little timid on the night - perhaps because she was unhappy with how the set was going - and not interacting the way she usually would. But despite this, I thought she engaged plenty and had some entertaining banter to share. 

From this performance at The End Of The Line Festival, I'd definitely be inclined to see Teeth & Tongue again live at another event or venue to get a feel of their full performance potential.  

I felt so elated to have spontaneously taken part in this local block party. Although technically labelled as a festival, it was more of a night-market atmosphere for locals supporting local arts, music and businesses. I really hope to see and experience more of this in Brisbane. 

Women In Voice 2016 @ JWCOCA

Last Friday I was FINALLY able to attend Brisbane's most iconic cabaret experience at this year's Women In Voice production at the Judith Wright Centre Of Contemporary Arts.

Women In Voice is not just a song concert, it celebrates females in the music and entertainment industries for their talent and hard work. Now in it's 23rd year, WIV has become an institution for Brisbane women to create and celebrate together.
With such a rich history of incredible talented having blessed the stage of previous WIV performances, I've wanted to attend the show for some years now.

I had never actually watched a performance at The Judith Wright Centre before either, despite having been to the venue on several occasions. Upon entering the theatre, I was impressed. There were dim red candles upon round tables in the front half of the room - very cabaret - and tiered seating beyond that to ensure everyone had a good view.

Emcee Judy Hainsworth kicked the night off with a song about the ups, downs and craziness that 2016 has offered us so far. Donned in a ghastly neon leotard with ruffles and frills, she was an absolute hoot. Judy guided us throughout the whole show introducing each act and performing a few numbers on her own including a song outlining the anxieties of an audition and a number about regional touring; all very entertaining and relatable for many of the industry based audience.

The first to perform her segment was WIV newcomer Alicia Cush. Alicia brought grace and professionalism to the stage as she guided us through a set inspired by home. She wore a flattering navy off-the-shoulder dress as she sung everything from jazz and blues to country with a touch of opera. She also played the accordion and a flute during her performance and sung in French(?)! Alicia was able to show her diverse talent and remarkable voice with a refreshing elegance.

Leah Cotterell wowed the audience next with her opening number as she took the stage wearing a graduation gown - indicative of her enormous education and qualifications - wailing an african american song that was as intriguing as it was impressive. She definitely had a unique set of pipes and was able to show the crowd everything she could do in a few short songs. What was also great about Leah was her remarkable sense of humour and personality.

Unfortunately Sahara Beck was out ill for the night so WIV alumni Bethan Ellsmore stepped in last minute to fill her spot. Despite having short notice she sung a flawless set with her captivating and unique voice. She was an absolute vision on stage with her rockabilly style and flaming red hair as she sung her way through some older jazz numbers.

Before the night concluded, Alison St Ledger hit the stage for her retro boogie inspired performance. She started off in a black dress narrating elements of the boogie and before we knew it she had a costume change and was dressed in an all-white suit complete with platforms and flares. Many people rose from their seats unable to resist the funk as Alison brought a unique and enjoyable energy to the stage.

Before the night ended, all five women returned to the stage for a final number and encore paying tribute the band, stage and lighting crew and the audience.
It was a memorable night of laughter, talent and joy. I dare say not a negative word was uttered in the crowd; they all loved it.