The Gingers @ The Tote(23/02/2008)

Tue 26th Feb, 2008 in Gig Reviews

The Tote is a special venue. Every time I go there I see a great band, and am reminded that despite the rest of the world, music and beer can still make for the best night. O and good company. The Gingers seem to personify all three things on stage, and more besides. From the first explosive song through to the last, they clearly enjoyed every minute, and the vibe was somewhat infectious.

It is worth noting, as The Gingers did, that the support act for the night was a band called Ships Piano. The members are apparently 15, and although very rough around the edges, showed a great deal of potential. They were almost overawed to be playing such a Melbourne music scene icon, but hardly let that that stop them beat out a sturdy set. These boys will get there.

The Gingers have been doing this just that little bit longer, and it shows. They are damn tight. A heady mixture of 50s pop, 60s garage and 70s punk, lofty comparions were easily made to the Ramones and the Clash, as well as local heroes the Spazzys and Mach Pelican. Led by bassist and singer Chelsea every single song got the foot tapping and put a big grin on your face. Even the cool girls in the beer garden came in to watch, whilst laughing at the impromtu mosh two guys started. Everyone was enjoying it.

And how could they not? Considering it was apparently the first show with new stickman CK, the set was great. The drums were near flawless, allowing Chelsea, and guitarists Stevie and Nellie, to take centre stage, ripping through solos, harmonies and classic riffs like there was no tomorrow. Moreover there was a real comraderie on stage. The band was having fun playing the music they love. A quick smile here, a knowing nod there, The Gingers are clearly in their element.

At one point there were some shady manager types talking contracts and such with hushed voices, and I did wonder who they were there to see. It could have been the 15 year old kids, since they seem to have a future ahead of them. More likely it was The Gingers, as for them I think the future is now. One can only hope the big bad music world doesn’t wreck it for everyone, especially the band themselves.