This was very much going to be Rat vs. Possum’s night. It was one of
the east coast launch nights of their debut “Daughter of Sunshine” and their
reputation as being a must-see live act ensured they had something to live up
to. They definitely succeeded in doing so.

First off the mark, Talkshow Boy’s hyperactive nu-rave happy hardcore rap was a
definite crowd divider, with the majority not overly impressed with the frantic
shouting along to tracks played from his laptop. Although there were glimpses
of a concept that could be pop genius, in the current guise it felt more like
watching a difficult art installation than watching a music gig.

Next up were Sydney’s Bearhug. Laidback, comfortable and confident, they looked like a
band having a good time, which translated itself into a great set of songs.
Singer’s Ryan Phealan vocals didn’t sound quite as strong as they do on record
(they have an EP, To Anything, coming out on Spunk in June), but that didn’t
take anything away from what was a very solid performance.

Rat vs. Possum didn’t disappoint with a
roaring set, their music unlike anything else that’s around at the moment (or
at least anything that’s any good). It’s a bit like a sonic explosion, but in a
good way. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but you just can’t help but to
be impressed and mesmerized by their performance. There wasn’t a moment where
Rat vs. Possum went too far or too long playing their tribal pop noise, with every
single bit of their layered songs meticulously constructed to please the crowd.
It’s hard to pick the absolute highlight as the band maintained a very high
standard throughout their set, making sure everyone knew it was their party
tonight.

Finishing off the “band” section of the
night were Brackets. After a
lukewarm start, possibly caused by people wanting to dance to more Rat vs.
Possum, their indie rock fused with electronica and beats picked up the crowd
and kept them going until the DJ’s kicked off.