The first time I saw Cabins was in 2008. They were just getting started as a band, while I was just finishing up my Undergraduate Degree. I remember the promise they showed in the early days, while they were finding their sound and a fan base. So now, to see them a couple of years later, complete with a debut album (“Bright Victory”, released 11th June), a legion of local and national fans, and tonight an album launch party through Ivy League, is a true thrill for me. Because not only have they made it, but they’ve become amazing musicians and an impressive live band in the process.
Of course, new found confidence on the stage is the first thing you notice in the Sydney-based four piece, but then comes the music itself. Tonight I was hearing most of their new music for the first time, as they went through a 40 minute or so showcase of the new album. And if their performance tonight was anything to go by, then it’s going to be an outstanding record. They had the crowd eating out of the palms of their hands from start to finish, and with good cause.
Their second track of the night, “Mary”, was a particular standout for me, but the set just kept going uphill from there. Their follow-up track had a White Rabbits-esque feel to it, with catchy riffs and some sweet keyboard melodies, as Leroy thrashed his guitar around the stage. This is representative of an energy that flowed throughout the set, to particularly impressive effect.
Another track off the new album, “Oceanic Blues”, shows a different side of the band, with the track performed partially acoustic. It also reminds us that Cabins carry with them a surprisingly dominating influence of the blues. They don’t highlight this too often, but when they do, they nail it. A cover they performed on the night was where this shined the brightest. And in the final track, Leroy even pulled out the guitar slide!
I’ve said it once before in this review, but I’m immensely impressed by how far this band has come, and it’s great that Ivy League are on board to support them. There’s no telling how far this band can go, and I’m looking forward to finding out.
Make sure you get your hands on “Bright Victory” – it’s out June 11th. And if you can’t wait that long to hear some new Cabins music, they’re currently on tour with Children Collide, showing themselves off around the country! Head to our Gig Guide for dates.
