The Don’t Look Back concert series was given a huge welcome in Adelaide. In the first of two rare concerts, Died Pretty performed their seminal 1991 album Doughboy Hollow from start to finish in brilliant form.
Originating in the UK as an offshoot of the hugely successful All Tomorrow’s Parties Festival, Don’t Look Back has become an international phenomenon with over 25 acts performing their classic or landmark albums, in their entirety. Other participants on this Australian premiere include Sonic Youth _Daydream Nation), The Scientists Blood Red River to be performed at Fowlers on 22 February and Ed Kuepper Honey Steals Gold who had joined Died Pretty on their east coast shows. Unfortunately Adelaide’s music lovers were declined the opportunity to witness Ed in action this time round.
I arrived in time for sound check between bands having missed local support act Leader Cheetah who apparently warmed up the crowd well with their alt country twang.
The moderate sized crowd of 30-40 somethings at The Gov was brimming with anticipation, on a night which would have seen Adelaide’s stock of babysitters stretched to capacity, particularly given that it was Valentine’s Day.
The Died Pretty members cruised onto stage led by guitarist Brett Myers with lead singer Ron Peno last to appear to rapturous applause. This reunion is the original line up who played together 17 years ago reforming especially for this concert series.
I must admit not knowing this album too well, but am well aware of Died Pretty’s influence on alternative pub rock and was looking forward to the extremely rare experience of an album played live in full. At least there’d be no fights over the set list!
With Ron’s words “Welcome to _Doughboy Hollow_” the band kicked off the show. The second and third songs brought forth the album’s big singles and the collective joy raced to a higher level as DC and Sweetheart were belted out with emotional energy. The following song Godbless was a head turner allowing guitar guru Brett to fully rock out.
From here on in the crowd’s respect rose to new heights as the songs were brought to life with great musicianship. The album’s final song Turn Your Head returned to delicate yet intense tones and was another stand out track. It was interesting to note that even though the set list was predetermined by the album’s track listing, there was still a cheer from the crowd of Died Pretty fans at the start of each song.
Peno’s voice was in fine form as was his dancing style, his overall stage presence reminiscent of front men like Mick Jagger and Micheal Stipe. When not singing, his crazy vacant stare to the rear of the room gave a somewhat uneasy window into his inner space. Brett’s backing vocals added to the melodic mood while his guitar style surged classic rock. Chris Welsh’s drumming captured every mood swing and Steve Clark’s bass powered through to the end. Being a sucker for bands with keyboards I enjoyed the piano touch brought by John Hoey, whose chance to shine came in the encores (2 in total!).
The loud crowd weren’t letting them leave without an encore, and we were treated to 6 more classics from Died Pretty’s back catalogue. These songs like Everybody Moves and Stoneage Cinderella had more raw energy and the band played as though they would never stop.
This gig reminded me how powerful a complete album can be and left me wondering how many of today’s albums would withstand this treatment in 10 years time when I’m a 40-something!
