Black Market Rhythm Co., TheDelta Riggs, Silent FeatureEra @ The Zoo, Brisbane(07/05/10)

Mon 10th May, 2010 in Gig Reviews

Apparently Silent Feature Era ‘s record producer once told them that their music was all over the place. Perhaps I am missing something because I find their set nothing short of that brand of alt-country-meets-folk-pop made so popular by Mumford and Sons. While their songs are well crafted and enjoyable to listen to, the band fall short of creating the type of live magic and intensity needed to make such folk acts work. However, they do have some great moments of clarity, with tight jams and a fiery drum solo towards the end of their set.

The Delta Riggs are pure, unadulterated rhythm and blues. Lead vocalist, Elliott Hammond has a strong and distinctive voice and enough bombast to go around. In fact, every single member of the band is entertaining to watch – be it the guitarists striking poses at each other, the cool cat on the keys or the drummer banging out the cowbell. Their songs are so catchy that you just can’t help but tap your feet and groove along. The highlight of the set is when Hammond slows everything down to introduce each member of the band, who each performs a solo backed by the seductive rhythm section. A thoroughly enjoyable set.

Tonight is Black Market Rhythm Co. ‘s last Brisbane gig – for a long time, anyway – with lead singer Chris Ernst moving to London. They begin their set with You’re So Cool, the opener to their well-received debut album, Low-Fi Records, Hi-Fi Radio. This is followed by Ain’t For Sale from their 2006 back catalogue and, judging from the crowd’s reaction, one that hasn’t lost any of its appeal over the years.

The band take a moment to showcase all four songs off their new EP. The new songs are more electronic and beat-driven than their previous ventures – a surprising, yet welcome new direction – but without losing any of their heart-warming pop influences. New single Looked Good In The Daylight is as catchy and fun as anything they’ve ever written, while I’m A Soldier shows off beautifully layered harmonies.

The band leave Ernst alone with the slide guitar to perform a breathtaking version of True Love. When they return, they rattle through a selection of songs from their album, including the endearing Lucky Star, before ending on Seniorita. Their encore consists of a cover of INXS’ Never Tear Us Apart, followed by their trademark Low-Fi Records, Hi-Fi Radio, with the whole crowd singing along.

The strong turnout tonight is a testament to Black Market Rhythm Co.’s widespread appeal and long history of endearing performances. A staple on the local scene and the national blues and roots circuit, they will certainly be sorely missed.