The Daisycutters, Hungry Kidsof Hungary @ Powerhouse,Brisbane (15/03/09)

Wed 25th Mar, 2009 in Gig Reviews

Anticipation and Excitement fills the air of Brisbane’s Powerhouse and surrounding New Farm Park for the latest instalment of the free Live Spark! concert series. If riverside location, great food and reasonably priced drinks wasn’t already a winning formula, the addition of live music has made this a truly perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

By the time Hungary Kids of Hungary take to the stage to kick off the musical proceedings the seated gallery is three-quarters full with ever-growing numbers electing to watch from the elevated platform surrounding the stage. Keyboardist Kane Mazlin takes the lead for the first couple of songs, catching the interest of both audience and Powerhouse patrons with his tight vocals and infectious energy.

As the Hungries bounce through tracks from both EP’s the crowd continues to expand, reaching a peak as the band begins Triple J favourite Set It Right. Mazlin and Guitarist Dean McGrath share the vocals throughout the remainder of the set to great effect and both manage to get the relaxed crowd tapping their feet, especially during highlights All You Need To Know and Scattered Diamonds.

As they leave the stage with smiles, pride and thank-you’s, it is clear to everybody in the crowd that they had just seen a band that is clearly going places with their mix of catchy lyrics, infectious harmonies and pure enjoyment of performing.

The half hour break between Hungry Kids of Hungary and today’s headliners results in a slight decrease in crowd numbers and atmosphere, leaving The Daisycutters to create their own vibe rather than ride the wave of their impressive support act.

Stalwarts of the Brisbane rock scene for over a decade, The Daisycutters run through a set that displays their maturity and experience gained through hundreds of live shows over the years.

The energy of frontman Cameron Wilson keeps the performance flowing and the crowd entertained. The set reaches its peak during I’ve Stopped Drinking Now I’ve Found Her off their Lines And Sinkers album and continues through their radio tracks from earlier this decade.

Although probably not the perfect fit for a Live Spark! headliner, The Daisycutters showed they are four men who thoroughly enjoy playing their songs and doing it well.

The combination of live music, a buzzing atmosphere and perfect location is definitely working for the Powerhouse and its Live Spark! program. Walking out of the venue and seeing the setting sun over the Brisbane River after experiencing some of the best performing artists this city has to offer is the perfect way to cap off a memorable Sunday afternoon.