Adelaide band, The Shiny Brights are currently showcasing at the CMJ festival in New York.

In part 2 of a 5 part blog, the band report in on their latest adventures.

As day 1 adjourns, we slide into day 2 helped by a litre bottle of Captain
Morgan’s and a blonde guy sporting a rather festive g-string. In a festival such as CMJ, where teaching the industry about the industry is as important as the music itself, the antics of the previous night play havoc with our ability to make the music panels. Instead our adventure leads us to Shampoo on Avenue B where the hair is styled and the shoes are free.

CMJ is a conference and jokes aside; the panels are imperative for the
development of any band. The probability of networking is as likely as women flocking to a young James Dean, bands are everywhere and everyone wants to hang out. Don’t be late, don’t be shy and don’t miss the opportunity. Everyone wants to learn, everyone wants to teach and you get back what you give. People line the streets of Washington Square, trying to sell their shows, as the Thai would sell a cheap watch and a “massage”.

Aside from the cultural diversity of the Big Apple, the live music is alive
and kicking. Dylan grew it, The Strokes made it hip and Yeasayer delved far below the depths of all normal reason at last years CMJ. This year Radio Luxembourg has plummeted their proverbial stake into the heart of the US music scene. Inspired by their close neighbours from downtown UK such as The Libertines and The Small Faces, the Welsh 4 piece drove the Annex in downtown NY into a spin. However, their flair and happy go lucky pop sensibility was only to be outdone by the fieriest performance we have seen in years. Friendly fires are the SHIT! Utilizing a dust buster to create a new wave experience, even the hipsters in New York were forced off their usual steady feat into the dance the kids in the UK are obviously digging.

Edging towards the centre of the CMJ week, we’ve so far survived. Some helpful tips: Do buy leather, as it keeps you warm in 2 degree weather and if all else fails you can always become a part of the backing band of Spinal Tap. Don’t question the beliefs of the local public, as a face full of spit and the dodging of a 2 metre baton will ensue.

Two days down, three to go. Stay tuned as we trudge our way through “the haze of this misty glaze” and deliver ourselves to the frightening reality that the frivolities of the festival will someday soon end.

Check out Part 1 HERE.