The Oyster Murders, MyFiction, Mass Migration @ TheZoo, Brisbane (29/1/2009)

Mon 2nd Feb, 2009 in Gig Reviews

Instrumental group Mass Migration warmed up the venue with their unique and varying repertoire. These guys were excellent with their experimental use of distortion and unusual instruments including a xylophone and trumpet (honestly how could you not love that combination). The understated and sombre piano was one trait of their music which was particularly entrancing. Unfortunately, they were a tad detached from the audience. Guitarist Owen seemed to have his back almost constantly turned towards the audience and they barely uttered a word before finishing their set and inconspicuously exiting the stage. As much as I enjoy instrumental music of this nature, I think it can be said that vocals play a massive part in connecting the band with the audience – like you always remember the shows where the vocal harmonies were incredible or even just that the band had a great repour with the audience between songs. However, with a band of this quality the easiest option is to just give up and allow yourself to be immersed within the ambience swimming around you.

Surprisingly, My Fiction started with a couple of their slower paced tunes before amping up the unexpectedly rowdy and enthusiastic mob with latest release Your Tokyo. The crowd they had attracted was significant and thankfully they managed to engage them with their energetic set. Singer Eric Robinson had an impressive range frequently indulging in vocal acrobatics which complemented their electro indie-pop perfectly. Their sentiments towards Brisbane were genuine but my highlight was Go, their ode to moving to Melbourne.

The Zoo seemed to empty out a little bit before The Oyster Murders came on stage; it seems My Fiction were possibly the main attraction of the night. And as The Oyster Murders played I couldn’t help but think maybe My Fiction would’ve been a more appropriate finale. In fact, Mass Migration would’ve been an excellent lead into The Oyster Murders. They churned out the repetitive hum of Instamatic circa 1991, Oceans hearts and ghosts and various other songs throughout the set but the last couple of songs were upbeat and particularly enjoyable. I don’t know if it was just me but the set seemed surprisingly short considering they were headlining the evening. I must give kudos to this band however for their free singles which I’ve seen around a few places including this gig – no one can deny that they’re persistent.