Bonfire Nights @ Woodland,Brisbane (02/05/11)

Wed 6th Apr, 2011 in Gig Reviews

Unaccustomed to one-band gigs, this reviewer turns up very early for Bonfire Nights 11:30pm set at Woodland. The room fills up gradually, and while there are no support bands, the DJ earnestly tries to entice punters onto the dance floor with a series of indie dance numbers. If you haven’t been to Woodland before, the room is a nice and cozy wooden thing, adorned with scenic prints and cushioned booths. The biggest detractor from the ambiance is the pulsing beat rising up through the floor from the Mustang Bar below.

I take the time to reflect on the journey of Bonfire Nights that has brought them here tonight. I had the pleasure of seeing some of their earliest shows, watching the fledgling act find its feet in their late night shows at The Troubadour (R.I.P.). It is the great story of rock n roll, to see homespun bands cut the apron strings and make the decision to move overseas to pursue their dreams. This will be the last Brisbane show for some time as the trio are relocating to the bright lights of London at the end of the month.

The time comes for Bonfire Nights to take the stage. Guitarist and singer, Steve Foster saunters to the microphone, accompanied by Ruth Nitkiewicz on drums/vocals and Nicole Hoaran on keyboards/synth/harmonica/vocals. They waste no time, jumping straight into their brand of psychedelic-infused rock. It’s a hard sound to really describe. At times, they have a very Velvet Underground flavour, somtimes it’s a bit BRMC meets the White Stripes, at others I get the Bowie feeling (Ziggy, not Labyrinth). At all times, they exude a confidence and energy that is infectious and enthralling. This is a band that is going places, literally.

Despite a couple of technical glitches, including a gaffa-taped kick pedal, the band tear through the 45 minute set without pausing for breath. Final song, Own Worst Enemy is a cracker, coming complete with guitar throwing, standing on kick drums and knocking over keyboards. Dizzy and breathless, we are left hoping for a swift return by Bonfire Nights to our shores as Brisbane needs their rock n roll. However, for now we say adieu and bonne chance, Bonfire Nights!