WAMi Saturday Spectacular @ YaYa's, Perth (28/05/11)

Mon 30th May, 2011 in Gig Reviews

Northbridge was alive with the sound of music on Saturday for the WAMi Saturday Spectacular. Ya Ya’s had a full day packed in and as the clock struck midday The Sensitive Drunks were the first to hit the stage. They played a whole lot of pop that made you want to jump around and dance, though no one actually did, the little crowd they had accrued seemed to be foot tapping. The catchy nature of their indie pop tunes showcased the fun of making music and it almost seemed as if it was all a joke, but as they played their recently released single There She Goes, there was a glimmer of satisfaction that one punter knew some of the lyrics.

Like Junk came to the stage scattering flowers over the keyboard and on to the drum cymbals so that they would fly into the air as the band picked up the tempo. Their music was like being in a creepy old-fashioned horror film; combining intense deep vocals with shrilling screams from the female drummer. It was melodramatic and ridiculously unique, They merged post-punk ideals with indie and the decided key mashing, cymbal smashing and guitar shredding as though it completed them, which it did. They were eccentric, eclectic, terrifying and enticing and took you on the twisted journey of their music in the most satisfying way.

Solo act Junior Bowles played a soothing set of blues and folk songs to a much smaller audience but those who were there seemed to appreciate the acoustic talent of the Bunbury born musician. Playing original songs from his LP The Time Has Come and even throwing in a Lead Belly cover, his voice was projected through the venue emphasising his honest, expressive lyrics. Metal finger picks and the slide guitar technique brought out Bowles’ true, individual style. He is a musician that radiates passion and love for making music.

The day saw people walking in and out of venues all over Northbridge and Antonio Paul just happened to pull the afternoon streetwalkers in as YaYa’s packed out as much as it had all day. Marc and Michael took the stage with an instrumental intro that introduced their supporting members halfway through to add drum beats from all directions and nursery rhyme synths. Although most of their songs sounded similar, there was definitely a rock/punk undertone thrown in there, this mixed with super sweet indie vocals brought a fusion of indie pop heaven.

The Community Chest brought a 60s-inspired summer feel to YaYa’s in a Beach Boys kind of way. Opening with mirror image drumming from two kits their songs were played with ease in a simplistic feel good way. The riffs were basic and the ultimate sound was far from complex but the vintage syths added a certain pizzazz that made the audience bop their heads, smiling away. Fronted by Adem K, the songs were upbeat yet melodic and created a fun vibe throughout the venue.

After headlining a show the night before, Lacey took to the stage which as much enthusiasm as a Friday night. Blending indie and rock with a melodic twist, they played to an upbeat sound with a dramatic undertone. They were tight from start to finish and swapping guitars for keys and syths changed up the dynamic and elicited a fantastic crowd response for the whole set. Drumming from Josh Berry was extremely impressive his arms flailing in the air at lightning speed. The harmonies worked effortlessly and where the backing vocals came in, added an extra element to songs.

Finishing off a music-filled day at YaYa’s were the energetic and extremely entertaining band Tracksuit. Throwing out some good old rock ‘n’ roll, singer Steve Hensby shook and swung his hips throughout every song with a stage presence that oozed entertainment. They are an easy-listening three piece that thrive off each other, encompassing friendly stage banter between songs and singing that soared from the stage to the streets of Northbridge. If the audience had known the band better, you could guarantee sing-alongs and clapping hands. The lively nature from these guys hit the mark of an early evening finish to a creditable day in the WA music world.