OK, so this article has been a while in the making. Though I did see a LOT of performances at BIGSOUND, I didn’t see as much as I would have liked – and this list only reflects the bands I saw. But in any case, I’ve been trying – ever since BIGSOUND – to put together a definitive list of my ten favourite showcases I saw while in town. Let’s just say it’s been difficult. What an incredible lineup of bands it was! So, without further ado, here we go…
10. Zeahorse
One of Australia’s finest rock bands proved themselves worth all the praise, delivering a loud, intense set showcasing tracks off their long awaited debut record. We can’t wait to hear it!
9. Tkay Maidza
With comparisons to Azealia Banks and M.I.A. being thrown around all over the shop, this young talent is garnering a whole heap of hype and praise around the country. Hailing from South Australia, Tkay powered through a set that included a literal explosion of the speakers that rendered her without volume for an awkward period of time, but she pushed through and proved herself quite the talented performer. An artist to watch without question.
8. Kingswood
One of Australia’s finest bands reminded us why everyone calls them that. They were as tight as ever and their newer stuff is sounding fantastic. I can never get enough of this band though, so maybe I’m bias.
7. The Demon Parade
Though I caught the band briefly at their showcase, it was at our AU 5th Birthday event that they really shined. Having seen the band multiple times over the years, they’ve only gotten tighter and tighter with each show and are fast becoming one of the country’s finest outfits. Definitely check the Melbourne group out when you can.
6. Harpoonist and the Axe Murderer
5. Little Bastard
4. Salibah Baba Taliba
3. Billy Bragg
2. The Peep Tempel
It would be hard for me to not have included something from our event in this list, simply because it took a great deal of my focus from the week. But this performance from Melbourne three piece The Peep Tempel was easily, and without bias, my highlight of what was a night of superb calibre. This is purely self indulgent, however, as I’d been wanting to see the band for a long time and they simply did not disappoint. Great rock and roll, through and through. Be sure to check them out.
1. King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard
SPECIAL MENTIONS / WHAT I MISSED:
A special mention has to go to Robert Forster for wearing a Dune Rats shirt and performing with members of John Steel Singers, among others. And naturally being as kick ass as ever. I didn’t make the Philly Jays reunion show due to other commitments but if I had, this would have undoubtedly have been my number one choice. Regurgitator singing I will lick your asshole to all the VIPs
And what about my favourite “moments”? Well, you can check them out HERE.
