Surfer Blood have garnered some pretty immense exposure in online alternative publications considering the band’s relatively short lifespan. Their indie rock anthem "Swim" was the song that has propelled them onto the international music radar, a soaring reverb drenched summer pop song with echoes of 90s indie rock and elements of stadium pomp.

Taking the stage at The Corner on Friday just before heading out to play Splendour, the band seemed genuinely surprised at the size of the crowd awaiting them when the curtains drew back. Big smiles all round as they launched into the first Australian show with gusto. Vocalist/guitarist J.P. Pitts was clearly enjoying showboating a little for the crowd, commenting that after 8 months on the road New York state seemed pretty far away. While the stronger songs from their debut Astro Coast had moments of brilliance, including some clever percussive interplay courtesy of their afro-haired percussionist/keyboardist and muscular drummer, the set did feel a little inconsistent. Attempts at floating brand new, unfinished material fell flat as the less developed songs really appeared weak next to some of the better album material.

Aside from the occasional ‘afro-beat’, Vampire Weekend-esque rhythm excursions the songs did end up becoming a little samey by the end of their set (and obviously rehearsed encore pantomime). However, there were some uplifting moments of indie rock excellence on display when the band strayed from the verse/chorus/verse/chorus format, especially when the fuzz pedals kicked in and their two guitar assault was really allowed some room to breathe.

Surfer Blood have come a long way in the last year, but in this reviewer’s mind it remains to be seen whether they’ll be able to maintain the momentum through a second album in the age of internet fads and fleeting micro-trends.