Get prepared. Eyes on the lookout. The Black Seeds are ploughing through the countryside to a neighbourhood near you. Currently in the midst of another Australian tour, they’ve been spreading their infectious trifid-like qualities from hometown Wellington, to far away cities and countries abroad.

Back in Sydney and playing at the Gaelic tonight, The Black Seeds proved again as they do so well, why some of the best and most renowned dub, funk and grooving beats originate from New Zealand.

First up tonight is Sydney’s Resurrectors. They’ve got a real rich and soulful sound, and have been paving the way for the inner city-based Australian tradition of easily accessible and contemporary roots reggae for quite some time. They’re foot loose and jamming on stage, filling the floor space with 9 members and a trombone. They’ve got a fabulous presence and while their music draws issues from real life and world issues, they blend it together with a local feel which is both distinctive, soulful and energetic.

Drawing the larger crowd for the evening is the Black Seeds. The Black Seeds broadcast a simple but dynamic display of musical talent in their 8 piece ensemble. It’s an organic mix of sax, trumpet, bass, guitar, drums, keys, vocalism and a big open box of percussion.

The Black Seeds forge a real sense of direction for technical experimentation. There is always something going on while they’re on stage. It’s both rough and raw while at the same time treading a groovy line between old reggae vibes, deep harmonious rhythm and up-tempo soul.

Into The Dojo, the Black Seeds’ most recent studio album, demonstrates a more mature approach to musical collaboration. This was evident on stage tonight, where a distinct element of their previous Keep On Pushing (1997) album days was missing. This being said, they’ve most definitely still got their mojo in the dojo, and the inescapable ability to keep the crowd smiling, dancing and entertained.