Finding the newly revamped Marquee on Parramatta Road proved to be a small mission upon itself. If I had taken my usual mode of transport to this gig (via Helicopter) then I would have noticed the only sign marking this venue, which happened to be situated on the roof (go figure). After walking past this venue about four times, a concerned bouncer spotted me from behind the car park, literally called out to me and showed me to the door (which he explained he had done many times that night). To anyone attending this venue who hasn’t been before, you need to walk down Pyrmont Bridge Road (opposite side of the petrol station) and turn left into the small car park, where the venue door is slightly hidden to the left.

The Marquee is a roomy and comfortable venue with simple, yet elegant character. A large rectangle dance floor leading up to the stage and an elevated section to the left of the stage with cozy lounges and red velvet curtains. Pool tables at the back of the room, with a clear view of the stage, and surprise, surprise no poker machines in sight. I’m led to believe that all alcoholic drinks are $5.50 (Including beers which, I think, are only available in bottles).

Fresh and young solo artist; guitarist and vocalist Sui Zhen warms the crowd with confidence and grace. Tonight, she is accompanied by bass guitar (played by her brother who is also the bassist for Element) which added an enhanced rhythm to her performance. The bass sounds sometimes reflecting hollow sounds of a didgeridoo and providing entertainment in the intervals whilst she tunes her guitar. Sui Zhen is a cute, quirky and charming performer; possessing amazing song writing skills beyond her years. She enchants us with sweet and unique vocal melodies, dynamic harmonies and raw guitars, played with such simple beauty that it is difficult to deny her emergence as a talented indie act.

Ta’veren Jive is the next act to grace the stage, and considering the gig is running behind schedule (due to earlier technical difficulties) they set-up promptly. Ta’veren Jive are a five-piece acoustic rock outfit, performing a tight and well rehearsed show tonight. They utilise heavy acoustic riffs accompanied by metal/funk basslines and steady drumming rhythms creating  diverse dynamics and moods. Ta’veren Jive could well be described as the Australian answer to Incubus (without the DJ component). The crowd’s reaction tonight is very positive; with many-a-punter jumping about to this bands energetic and impressive performance.  This band definitely oozes potential and with a few more gigs under their belt, I am positive they will continue to grow and evolve into something quite special.

Hollafell were not only the most impressive act tonight, but are also one of the most talented local support bands I have seen in a while. Nu-metal but hard-edged; Hollafell are heavy, electrifying and aggressive, performing a vast and well executed show. It might not be very trendy these days, but this was a seriously polished performance with brilliant sound, made all the better by the fact, it was in the intimate surroundings of the Marquee and not in some huge arena (where it is quite easy to envision this band performing at). The vocalist is nothing less than brilliant (and also happens to sport one of the longest goatee’s I have seen :). Captivating, strong, powerful and confident vocals performed with ease and maturity, accompanied by monster rhythm sections, warping melodies, funky basslines and an engaging dynamism, all crystallise into particularly memorable and unique songs. The comparison to Linkin Park was thrown around a few times tonight, although hastily followed with the words “but not as commercial/ [insert derogatory word here]”. This to me is definitely a compliment, depending on the bands future visions/intentions. The crowd’s response was enthusiastic although perhaps slightly apprehensive, considering the overall vibe tonight is mellow and atmospheric, I’m unsure if Hollafell’s slightly contrasting style was expected. Personally I think this band, positioned at the right event, has the potential to whip the crowd into a manic frenzy. I’ll certainly be hanging out for that moment, and would encourage you all to do the same.

Endusk, the headlining act for tonight didn’t make it onstage until 12:30pm (when they were supposed to be finishing) and unfortunately a noticeable weariness seemed to accompany them. Added to this was an unnecessary reverberative effect produced by the sound engineer, which evidently does not suit the band’s style, taking away from their overall accomplished sound. The vocals were also turned down, and at times Rae’s eerily-haunting vocals were barely audible. Withstanding the imposed complications, the spirit and atmosphere of Endusk’s music still managed to produce a dreamy and beautiful effect, the tribal sound of the bongos sending me into a trance at times, slowly easing me back into reality, and then carrying me off on another ethereal adventure. Due to the aforementioned circumstances this was not one of Endusks better performances and unfortunately does not inspire me to write anything more about it, but as always I wait with eager anticipation for the next Endusk show.