Violent Soho, The Magic Hands@ Transit Bar, Canberra,(26/07/08)

Sun 27th Jul, 2008 in Gig Reviews

CHECK OUT THE PICS HERE!

Saturday night at Transit was set to be big one. The queue was out the door and The Magic Hands kicked off the night in anticipation of New Zealand band, Cut Off Your Hands. Transit Bar put on another freebie for music lovers and the place was at capacity.

Following a solid set by Canberra’s own The Magic Hands, Violent Soho brought on a screaming set. Garage grunge is back friends of the 90’s and the boys from Mansfield, Brisbane, carry it out like the pros of old. Reminiscent of the likes of Nirvana and Tripping Daisy with a hint of Weezer guitaring, the boys of Violent Soho have created their own alternative grunge sound with heavy messy guitars, booming bass and smashing drums that made the “older” folk that remember the 90’s do the slow mo head bang. Their influences include some of the most prominent bands of the 80’s and 90’s. You only need to check out their t-shirts see they are fans of the Ramones and Black Flag. Grunge styling in black t-shirts, flannel, impressively long hair and a strong head bang action all add to the band’s credibility as a truly rocking foursome.

Playing tracks from their debut album We Don’t Belong Here including Jesus Stole My Girlfriend and My Generation, a tight group of fans were moshing with vigour upfront – they knew what was going on – but perhaps confused by the screaming vocals and heavier rock sound, most of the crowd were subdued and sitting, politely awaiting the more familiar indie sound of Cut Off Your Hands. Maybe they’ll catch on next time the guys visit Canberra. Regretfully, Violent Soho was the bearer of bad news, announcing Cut Off Your Hands had lost their voice for the night. All was not lost as the Brisbane boys somewhat made up for the omission and played a couple more tracks. Despite their international influences, Violent Soho reminded us that Australian music is among some of the best music around, covering My Pal by 80’s Melbourne band GOD. Despite a premature end to the live music, the punters kicked on and danced to DJ Tom of Hancock Basement. The queue was still well out the door as Violent Soho packed up and headed out for drinks.