Jebediah, Stonefield and SplitSeconds @ Fowler's Live(18/11/11)

Wed 23rd Nov, 2011 in Gig Reviews

On one of the hottest November nights in ages, Adelaide’s Fowler’s Live hosted a triple-header of rock courtesy of Split Seconds, Stonefield, and the ever-reliable Jebediah.

Perth’s Triple J Unearthed pop-rock darlings Split Seconds played to the early arrivals, delivering their radio friendly tunes, including the well known All You Gotta Do. Straying from the distinct Western Australian theme for the evening, but keeping with the Unearthed flavour, sister act Stonefield followed, living up to their reputation for a solid live show. Amy Findlay’s talent for singing lead vocals whilst drumming puts Meg White to shame, and the head-banging duo on guitars, Hannah and Holly, bring some personality on stage. Singles such as Move Out of My Shadow and Through the Clover fit in well amongst the psychedelic set, completed by a cover of Zeppelin’s Whole Lotta Love.

A quick set change and the foursome affectionately known as the ‘Jebs’ appeared before a packed, sweaty band room. Kevin was his affable self, stating that “the fans do little but push the heat around, but they’re just for you Adelaide!” Kevin, Vanessa and Chris all donned contrasting animal guitar straps and warmed the crowd, as Brett beamed from behind the drum kit. The band are genuinely pleased to be performing after a long and successful 16 year career.

The older punters lapped up the first track, Military Strongmen, as Kevin launched himself into yet another energetic performance. More recent songs No Sleep and Fall Down quickly followed, peppered by some of Vanessa’s usual crowd interaction (smiling, then looking puzzled at the guy trying to give her a beer).

A song that was written back in 1996, Control, sounded incredible live, with a distinct Fleetwood Mac vibe to the jangly chorus. Oldie Spoil the Show began some moshing and aggressive singalongs from the sweaty crowd, as Kevin’s mic died, supposed melting from the heat. The classic Animal morphed the moshing into crowd surfing, only being simmered down by the seminal juvenile love song, Harpoon, which Kevin mysteriously dedicated to his “first finger.”

After a quick drinks break, the encore began with a Funky Cold Medina drum beat, and some even funkier dancing, before turning into a quick burst of Blur’s Song 2. The ending double-header of Leaving Home and single She’s Like a Comet sent the moshers into overdrive, where even the youngest members of the crowd boosted themselves up for a crowd surf.

On a hot, sticky and nostalgic night in Adelaide, the battle for November was well and truly won.