It’s always nice to walk into a non crowded Zoo and instantly receive the vibe from the crowd that tonight is going to be a good night. Five-piece Brisbane band Nikko immediately sounded epic on stage. Their old school sound was an absorption of epic guitar riffs mixed with softer instrumentals and straight out noise. Wedding Song and Break and Enter both sounded as though the music was so loud lead singer couldn’t hear himself sing, which made his voice sound droney. Even so, the music was catchy, and at most times appropriately slow and nice.

Lead singer Ryan Potter stroked his guitar softly and evocatively. Bassist Sam Whiting seemed to be the only one really getting into it. Their music was well received by the crowd, even though no one was rocking out (perhaps the alcohol wasn’t doing its job yet?) Nikko gave us a sneak peak into their new album. And I liked it. The key boarder Daniel Kassulke was awesome; and guitarist Jackson Briggs was absolutely shredding it up! The build up into most songs showed Nikko knew how to work their instruments. The commanding development of their final song finished their performance on a high.

Beginning the set with an epic version of Gorillaz – Clint Eastwood (I ain’t happy, I’m feeling glad, I’ve got sunshine, in a bag) Rocketsmiths had all ears and eyes alerted to the stage. They projected an elated feeling through all of us, matching the mood with some affable tunes. A few friends made a passing comment that lead singer Dominic Miller looked drunk, which was slightly verified when he danced around like an inebriated Jack Black, making drunken comments in between songs about how unprofessional they were. I even caught the lyrics This is my life, I seem to be drunk all the time in a song – perhaps Miller was referring to himself? Nonetheless, he had an abundant amount of energy – and boy he could sing.

At times keyboardist Luke Hefferan was drowned out by the heavy bass and drums. Each song sounded different and original, with first-rate noticeable lyrics. Rocketsmiths live music sounded nothing like their recorded material, and it was nice to see Miller put 110% into the whole set. They abruptly stopped half way through Man With a Gun and laughed and joked – œwe’re fucking idiots’ before continuing the song accompanied by a massive headbanging session from all band members. All in all Rocketsmiths were instantly likeable. It was obvious Miller set out to make an impression on us, and it worked.

Brisbane four-piece Hungry Kids of Hungary were welcomed to the stage by a now well warmed up and energised crowd. Live they sounded like a perfect blend between The Zombies, Vampire Weekend, and Ben Folds Five, with their bluesy, soul filled tunes making their sound instantly likeable. Set it Right was played early in the set, giving the crowd a tasty treat of what was to come. All You Need to Know and _Scattered Diamonds were definite crowd pleasers, with their upbeat and catchy sounds getting most patrons up and grooving. Their impressive distinctive indie sound was directly appealing, proving they knew how to engage a crowd.

It’s the kind of music you wish you knew all the words to, so you could sing along and dance to the eccentric lively tunes. Evidence to their alluring qualities were the happy faces far and wide – everyone was enjoying themselves. On keys and vocals Kane Mazlin had an amazing voice, and the keys stood out far better than in the previous performances. Winning the hearts of all patrons tonight, Hungry Kids of Hungary are only headed for bigger and better things.