Gig Review: Parachute Youth (LONDON)

Parachute Youth
Friday 7th June, 2013
KOKO, London

On Friday the 7th Of June, Australian duo Parachute Youth took the stage at KOKO in Camden, to share with Londoners what Australian Indie-Electronic music is all about. 

Parachute Youth perform at KOKO in Camden, London. 

The atmosphere was electric, full of energy driven by the performance of Matt and Johnny. Performing on  a stage that has seen everyone from Charlie Chaplin, to Madonna and The Rolling Stones, the boys certainly rose to the occasion with smiles plastered on the faces of hundreds of dancing fans, wall to wall, on all four stories.

Parachute Youth sees Matt mixing it up while John rocks the keyboard and lead vocals (in fact, Matt and John are both on Keys and Matt uses a controller to sequence drums/midi) - which allows John to come out to the front of the stage and really interact and get the crowd going. 

Best known for their hit "Can't Get Better Than This," Parachute Youth took the opportunity to showcase more original material as well as covering Daft Punk much to the pleasure of concert-goers. 

"We're only a two piece but we make a lot of noise..." Aussies Mathew Gill and John Courtidis met at boring house party. They left half an hour later and started working on some tunes. Since they first met, Matt (a former airforce avionics technician – hence the group’s name) and John (a producer/muso in the band Def Starr) signed to Aussie label Sweat It Out (home to Ajax and Yolanda Be Cool).

Johnny from Parachute Youth

Throughout the high energy performance there was a sense of appreciation throughout the venue both and off the stage - the boys themselves saying they were "humbled" at the audiences' positive response.  With a lot of love in the room, all of the tracks performed were so well received that when the boys finished their set with a flawlessly performed "Can't Get Better Than This," we were all left wanting more. 

 Parachute Youth still have a number of shows coming up across Europe and if their KOKO gig was anything to go by I strongly recommend getting along to see them.  Whilst "Can't Get Better That This" and "Count to Ten" are their better known tracks, they are but a small representation of this duo's capability and experiencing the on stage chemistry and performance quality will, if not already one, convert you into a Parachute Youth fan.

Parachute Youth perform to a packed out venue (image: facebook)

I honestly cannot give Parachute Youth any higher praise for this concert.  As far as I could tell in the audience, the show ran smoothly, the sound quality was excellent and the energy was non-stop.  Admittedly, I did see them briefly at last year's Splendour in the Grass Festival at Byron Bay, but this show was truly on another level and if this is where Matt and Johnny are at this early on in their career, I have no doubt we can expect so much more from them in the future, both as individuals and together as Parachute Youth. 

 

For all upcoming tour dates check out Parachute Youth's website.  You can also Follow Parachute Youth on Twitter and Like Parachute Youth on Facebook.

Pre-Order/ Download Can't Get Better Than This - EP

UK Music Fix: Bastille

For those left wondering whatever happened to good, original pop music - i give you Bastille.  With an indie - rock vibe, Bastille's catchy and heartwarming songs have allowed them to break into the commercial market both within the UK and internationally 

The English band Bastille seem to have appeared out of no where, suddenly filling airways of multiple commercial radio stations and even having a remix featured on Adelaide's Dance Music Station Fresh 92.7 FM. After hearing and enjoying their track "Pompeii" i felt compelled to download this track, as well as see what other tracks may be available by the band.  Upon doing this i was able to read numerous reviews of their breakthrough single. One fan expressed that the song was so beautiful that it had brought her (or him) to tears.  Listening to more music by the band Bastille,  I would personally still describe their music as pop, but by no means should this leave a bitter taste in the mouth.  It's refreshing, it's unique and it is hands down good music. 

Bastille was initially a solo concept created by the crazy haired Dan Smith, who later turned Bastille into a band, joined by Chris 'Woody' Wood, Kyle Simmons and Will Farquarson.  Since working hard throughout 2011 and 2012, February 2013 saw the track "Pompeii" shoot up the UK charts to no 2., reaching no. 1 in Scotland. 

I am willing to argue that Bastille's popularity is attributed to more than just their catchy melodies, after all, if catchy melodies all that defined good music, some might say that Pitbull and Christina Aguilera sampling Aha's Take On Me was actually a good thing. (they would be wrong.)  With Bastille, there is meaning behind the lyrics, and a passion behind the vocals that can often be forgotten or overlooked.  It would be intriguing to see how Bastille's emotive performance on record translate in a live environment.   The harmonies and rhythms created by Bastille are reminiscent of Mumford and Sons and comparisons with The Fray and The Script could be made - it will certainly be interesting to see how Bastille's music and image develops with future records.

With Pompeii as a reference, other songs on the album are certainly fruit of the same tree.  Bastille have their sound defined and have managed to display creativity and variety within that scope. 

The band's next release will be "Laura Palmer" - a very similar track to "Pompeii".  Listening to the entire album is encouraged to get a more holistic Bastille experience.

Key tracks on Bastille's "Bad Blood" Album?  As well as their smash hit "Pompeii", check out "Flaws" and "Things We Lost in the Fire." 

Find Bastille on Facebook / Follow Bastille on Twitter

Artist Profile: HAIM

Haim; a new kind of girl group.

Out of Los Angeles, California comes a new kind of girl group: HAIM.  Their sound has been described as "Nu-folk-meets-90s-RnB" and their songs have the attention of hipsters everywhere. 

When you first hear all girl group HAIM you may think you're hearing something old for the first time. That's at least how I felt the first time I heard their track "Forever."  With funky guitar riffs and melodies I was convinced this was a song from the late 80s/ early 90s or at least belonged on the Pretty Woman soundtrack.  Some would say Haim's sound is reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac.  Although the music sounds from another era the songs themselves are fresh and exciting.

Vocal harmonies are frequent in Haim music - raw sounds seem to be their forte, and they have this  mastered; and you may expect as much after 6 years of being together prior to releasing music in 2012.   The girls in Haim however have known each other much longer than that.  The band consists of sisters Danielle, Alana and Este Haim, as well as Dash Hutton, the group's drummer.

It's obvious the girls are a little bit cheeky, like to have a bit of fun and are wildly passionate for music.  Touring with Julian Casablancas (of The Strokes), Danielle has had extensive experience in the industry, also having played with Cee-Lo Green.  As a group, their quirky style has had them supporting everyone from the likes of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros right through to pop sensation Ke$ha.

The contemporary pop beats created by Haim are addictive, and now managed by Jay-Z's label ROC NATION there's no doubt it is only a matter of time before Haim break the mainstream market.  In fact earlier this year BBC announced that Haim was number one of the music industry poll to find 'the most promising new musical act for the coming year'.

On April 1, Haim's latest EP will be released on itunes - the feature track, sharing the title of the EP, "Forever" is already available and currently playing on Australian airwaves.

Find HAIM on Facebook or Twitter

www.facebook.com/haimtheband

www.twitter.com/haimtheband

Festival Review: St Jerome's Laneway Festival

On February 8th, 2013, Adelaide Laneways were graced with the likes of The Rubens, Flume, The Japandroids, of Monsters and Men, Bat for Lashes, Chet Faker, Alpine, Alt-J  and many many more musicians, both local and international for the St Jerome's Laneway Festival. 

A smorgasbord of indie / folk/ rock acts assured that the event was a sell-out with many punters arriving before 5pm to enter the venue, suss out the situation and plan their attacks on how they would venture from stage to stage to see their favourite acts. (time of course would assure that this was not up to individuals but rather the incompetent security staff and systems put in place by event management.)

The Divine Fits - up close and personal

Nat and Brit - Awesome!
 Follow @natbrunoli on twitter.

But first; the music.  Whilst many were unfortunately unable to access stages to watch musicians play (we thought this is what the $120.00 was for?...) this music blogger, was more fortunately familiar with the venue and "laneways" and was one of the lucky ones.  Alpine were first on the agenda - drawing in a reasonably sized crowd it was clear from the get-go that many festival goers were those who listened to entire albums rather than the singles alone.  Dancing and singing along was madatory and the Alpine singers Phoebe Baker and Lou James were flawless - the bands live rendition of their biggest hit "Gasoline" was pure bliss to listen to. 

Next, we caught Yeasayer, Cloud Nothings, Chet Faker, The Rubens, Of Monsters and Men, Flume, Japandroids (AMAZING), A little bit of Alt-J, a little bit of Bat for Lashes and finished then night with the Divine Fits - Cudos to Miss Natalie (who often writes album reviews for RTM), who managed to sneak backstage to hang out with non-other than front man Britt Daniels.  

image: boudist.com

All artists were incredible, performing to a tee - This was the fourth time I had seen The Rubens (although at about 5'5" I use the word "seen" loosely) and the boys did it again, melting hearts or girls (and likely guys!) everywhere.

Unsure of what Flume would play and how he would perform, it quickly became evident that this young DJ has established his own sound signature as well as cult following.   His mellow beats and remixes are surprisingly refreshing in comparison to the dance music played on commercial stations, and it's for this reason it's a safe call to say that the best of Flume is yet to come.

Japandroids were my personal highlight and I think it was because this was an unplanned band to see - although in the lead up, many people had nothing but good things to say.  I was so impressed by the stage presence that the two (yes only TWO) band members gave off, and the racket of rock and roll noise they produced. 

the not so great wall of weslo.

Overall the music was fantastic and the line up did not disappoint.  The venue, security and management of the event however was poorly executed and even behaviour from SAPOL was misunderstood by the crowd, who by comparison to other music festivals were not that bad.  I witnessed one of the two arrests on the day which "required" 3 police officers and 2 security guards to aggressively pin down a young male who did not appear to be resisting in any way.  It was unclear why this arrest took place, including by fellow policemen who were clearly more flustered and panicky than general crowd members.  Further  embarrassment to the Adelaide festival is highlighted in today's Indaily, which reads:

"The locked gates meant the smaller stage inside Fowlers Live emptied out quickly and Brooklyn punk act The Men played to no more than 15 people on their first trip to Australia."

How the crowd control was conducted remains a questions for the authorities, however this was clearly a foreseeable problem considering the calibre of acts performing, in the highly condensed time table, in incredibly small locations.  An alternative to the City West Campus? Perhaps the Adelaide Show grounds.  Sure the "Laneway" concept is novel, however realistically this is people's safety we're talking about, and providing a product that is promised upon purchase of the ticket.  And the Showgrounds have plenty of "Laneway-esk" nooks and crannys more suitable for a 4000 people event.

Scathing reviews of the festival's management have flooded the internet with many vouching that next year they will be attending the festival in another state. 

The Divine Fits

I always say an event is what you choose to make it.  I enjoyed Laneway.  I had a good time with my friends listening to great music.  Money's worth? Perhaps not.  Unfortunately, I believe the Adelaide leg of this festival failed to deliver in many areas for both audience and artists, but I put this as a challenge to the event organisers and look forward to seeing how they will improve this 'boutique' festival in 2014.

The Backwater Blues and Roots Festival

The Backwater Blues Festival

19th-28th October

Adelaide and Regional South Australia

From the 19-28th of October across Adelaide and Regional South Australia, music lovers from all walks of life were brought together by the Backwater Blues and Roots Festival 2012. Featuring an array of artists sure to get you knee slappin and toe tapping, the remarkable line up on display this year was shared across the state with acts performing in Mount Gambier, Willunga, Lobethal, Whyalla and McLaren Vale.

On Friday the 26th of October the Old Queens Theatre, in Adelaide was brought back to life with performances from Tara Carragher and Genevieve Chadwick, as well as headliner for the night Mia Dyson. The venue was perfect; decor and lighting breathing energy into the somewhat restored old theatre warehouse, which you just know had seen so many performances and great times before then. Makeshift pop up bars and an eclectic collection of furniture with a silent video of The Rolling Stones projected onto the wall brought together the cool crowd, who were all there for one reason; to listen to good music.

The supporting acts of the night were raw and fantastic. Tara's voice was gorgeous and strong and Genevive rocked out on a guitar held together with gaffa tape and a single bass drum, starting a dance floor that would be grooving all night. Mia Dyson did not disappoint; her voice and the acoustics of her band's harmonies were brought out beautifully by this unique venue's layout.

And that is what is so great about the Backwater Blues and Roots Festival. South Australia is a hub for great music and music lovers alike and it is ideas and events like this that give us an opportunity to share, love and enjoy.

To describe the Backwater Blues and Roots Festival in more detail I've lifted this description from the event's facebook page:

"All great ideas come from a couple of beers, but only the crazy folks remember it the next morning. In 2007 we imagined something reminiscent of the makeshift bars of 1930s Mississippi where weary workers would unwind with a whiskey or a cold beer and dance to the rhythms of travelling blues men and women.

The Mojo Webb band were one of the
acts at this years Backwater Bluesfest

In 2008, Adelaide’s Juke Joint was born. The inaugural event attracted a like-minded audience of music lovers frustrated with the lack of blues & roots events in South Australia. Following such an overwhelming response, the event continued and evolved to become a 10-day celebration of blues & roots music throughout the state. Now in its fifth year, we are taking the blues to Mt Gambier, Whyalla, Lobethal, Willunga and McLaren Vale while also creating a pop-up Juke Joint in the centre of Adelaide at the Queens Theatre.

In true Adelaide fashion, the festival has been nurtured and developed for and by the public. The enduring appeal of the blues lies in its healing properties; the grinding rhythms and purging tales of trouble and strife with which anyone can empathise. It’s organic and real and spiritually uplifting for musician and listener alike. It’s the original dance music. And so, in an era of drive-thru lifestyles, social networking and manufactured musical confectionery, we bring you the elixir: the 2012 Backwater Blues & Roots Festival.

Hand-crafted by: Andrew Dundon & Rob Eyers with Meral Nieman, Tanya Schroeder, Emily Rice, Jacob Habner and the SA Blues and Roots community.

2012 Festival Line-up includes:

Interstate Artists

The Backsliders

Mia Dyson

Jeff Lang

Dallas Frasca

Collard Greens and Gravy

Genevieve Chadwick

Pugsley Buzzard

Brendan Gallagher

South Australian Artists

Mick Kidd

Nick Kipridis

Sweet Baby James & Rob Eyers

Dr Piffle & The Burlap Band

Louise & The Tornados

Jordan Ruru

Don Morrison

Cream Tribute Show

The Red Hot Blues Band

Rhumboogie featuring Chris Finnen

Tara Caragher

Bottleneck Slide Show

Harmonica Intensive with Snooks La Vie and Dave Blight

The Bakers Digest

Cal Williams Jnr

AP D'Antonio

Brenton Manser Duo"

"Mia has been on our dream list for the festival since its inception, so when we found out she was returning to Australia to launch her new album The Moment we jumped at the chance to create a soulful night celebrating the women of blues. Mia will be joined by the smoky, vivacious vocals of Genevieve Chadwick and Adelaide’s own rising star of the blues, Tara Carragher."

To learn more about the Backwater Blues Festival and keep in touch for next year, check them our on facebook, twitter or their website www.backwaterbluesfest.com

Gig Review: Mumford and Sons

Mumford and Sons

Mumford and Sons at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre

Monday October 15th

Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide

Mondays don't get much better than this.  Willy Mason, Edward Sharpe and Mumford and Sons; all playing individually as well as together.  The Adelaide Entertainment Center has significantly improved in looks and atmosphere since recent renovations.   The concert featuring these talented musicians took place in the newest staging addition to the venue, the Adelaide Entertainment Center theatre - a room off set from the original venue, providing an intimate vibe felt by viewers and performers alike.

The support acts were welcomed by audience with generous applause and cheering non-stop throughout the evening.   Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros were nothing short of incredible.  With two drum kits, a brass trio, a fiddle and every other instrument under the sun - the band were fun, entertaining and just a cool bunch of kids.  Their rendition of "Home" was stretched out and pleased the groupies who had been waiting all set for the hit.  At one stage during this support act,  Marcus Mumford took to the stage to perform Edward Sharpe and his ensemble, giving the crowd a sneak preview of what was to come. 

The boys wooed the crowd, performing one song with
no technology at all.

When Mumford and Sons took to the stage their set came alive.  It is amazing what four talented young men from the UK can bring to a live performance and it's safe to say there was no room left for disappointment.

Playing tracks from their breakout album "Sigh No More (2010)" it was "Little Lion Man" that saw the room burst into light leaving the audience in awe in a truly magical moment.  The music, the lyrics and the crowd contributed to making that moment one that trumps other memories from the night.


The acoustics of the venue also allowed the handsome foursome to perform acoustically; beautiful vocal harmonies silencing the crowd.

The lighting completed the magical set

Also showcasing songs from their recent album "Babel (2012)," Marcus, Ben, 'Country' and Ted displayed exactly how talented and diverse they each are performing songs that had a bit more edge and a fuller sound.  It wasn't too long ago that a drum kit was foreign to the band, but oh how this has changed with the set ending in a jam reminiscent of The Beautiful Girls' live sets; a bunch of dudes just rocking out. 

The connection between Mumford and Sons and the Adelaide audience was truly something special and the reception and how humbling it was for the band.  This concert will stick with me for a long time.

Follow Mumford and Sons on twitter, or find them on Facebook.

Check out up coming gigs at the Adelaide Entertainment Center here.

7 reasons to get excited for summer

The sun is shining, the line ups are out and I for one can not WAIT to get amongst it this summer.  "It" being the amazing showcase of musicans that will be featuring in festivals throughout our beautiful, sweaty, hot, amazing Australian summer.

The artists traveling down under for this summers' festivals are of the highest calibre, not to mention the incredible homegrown talents that have launched themselves onto the music scene in the last 12 months.  Festivals seem to be popping up left right and centre across the states and what a fantastic opportunity for everyone to see their favourite bands and artists as well as expose themselves to some more.  In case you live under a rock and are unsure of what music festivals I am referring to - Behold!

7 Reasons to get EXCITED for summer!

1. Falls Music Festival
www.fallsfestival.com.au/

Tickets have been sold and received but do not let this dishearten you! There are always genuine people having to sell their tickets for whatever reason.  A friend of a friend - you know the drill! But if someone seems dodgy on ebay - trust me they probably are! You can always try crashing as well - it's not like you'll get lost in the shrubbery or anything! (in case you can't remember; it happened - don't do it)  Angus Stone, Ball Park Music, Bombay Bicycle Club, Boy and Bear, Django Django. Jinja Safari, Lisa Mitchell, SBTRKT, The Hives and The Vaccines are a few names who will be featuring at this years wonderful New Years celebration festival.  A word to the organisers - please sort out the countdown this year.  or just someone to do it.   Falls Music Festival is set to be amazing once again with many of the bands already aurally pleasuring festival goers throughout 2012 and receiving rave reviews. 

 

2. Big Day Out
www.bigdayout.com

Returning to it's former glory, the Big Day Out has audienes excited once more after many were disappointed with the line up choices, with drawls and cut downs of last years music festival.  Boastin international acts such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Vampire Weekend, Bloody Beetroots and The Killers this year's festival will struggle to disappoint.  Of course there will be Australian bands present with local acts featuring in each of the festivals cities.  Grinspoon, also be featuring as part the festival, will be an Aussie band to keep your eye on - the guys will be showcasing songs from their new album "Black Rabbits."

3. Soundwave
www.soundwavefestival.com.au

This Soundwave line up makes me both laugh and cry.  I loved The Offspring.  I used to listen to them on my discman when I was in Year 7.  I feel the same way about them touring as I do the Backstreet Boys with New Kids On The Block.  I was listening to them around that time too..

Metallica, Blink 182, Garbage, Paramore, The Amity Affliction, Cypress Hill and Tomahawk are a few of the other names that put together this huge Soundwave line up.  I'm sending resident reviewer Nat Brunoli out to this one on RTMs behalf (aka i couldn't afford a ticket) so keep an eye out and say hi!

Tickets are still available so if you're into loud music, head banging and gimp masks, hop to the website and get on it.

4. St. Jermone's Laneway Festival
www.lanewayfestival.com.au

With the pre-sale beginning today, Laneway Festival hits the mark when it comes it chilled our indie pop music featuring the talents of acts that have been prolific this year including Alpine, Alt-J, Bat for Lashes, Chet Faker, The Rubens and Yeasayer.  General tickets are on sale on the 5th of October - so don't miss out!

 

5. Stereosonic
www.stereosonic.com.au

Do you think Calvin Harris is the new David Guetta?  Admittedly I heard of Calvin first, but he's been doing so many collaborations lately it's only a matter of time before Flo Rida ft. Calvin Harris or vise versa hits the charts...if it happens you know you heard it first here.  That said Calvin certainly has earnt himself the spot on headliner at this years Stereosonic Music festival, Featuring alongside names such as Tiesto, Avicii, Example, Major Lazer - the name behind this years smash hit "Get Free" and also that popular beat from Pon De Floor you may also recognise in Beyonce's "Run The World".  Also gracing festival heads are Laidback Luke, Martin Solveig, Diplo, Flux Pavilion, Bingo Players (who better to drop Rattle then these guys themselves), Tommy Trash and Beni.

6. Summadayze
www.futureentertainment.com.au/summadayze

The same group that put together Parklife have put together this stella line up which I'm sure will capture summer days (har har) perfectly Fredde le Grand, Knife Party, Kimbra, The Chemical Brothers, Mark Ronson, M.I.A, Disclosure, Icona Pop and festival favourites Stafford Brothers, Timmy Trumpet will be back in action.  Get your neons and dancing shoes on for this one people!

If this song doesn't take you back to circa 2005/2006 i don't know what will...

7. All these other gigs!

Check out your local gig guide for more info :)

September

Parklife (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth)

Counter Revolution (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane)

Village Fair (Sydney)
October
Jazz in the Vines (Hunter Valley, NSW)

Manly Jazz Festival (Sydney)

Stonefest (Canberra)

Rewind (Kembla Grange, NSW)

The Boroughs (Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney)

Counter Revolution (Adelaide, Perth)

Fat As Butter (Newcastle)

November

Queenscliff Music Festival (Melbourne)

Shine On (Melbourne)

Foreshore (Canberra)

Stereosonic (Sydney, Perth)

Blues at Bridgetown (Bridgetown, WA)

Harvest Festival (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane)

December


Falls Festival (Melbourne, Hobart)

Meredith Music Festival (Melbourne)

Stereosonic (Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane)

Peats Ridge (Glenworth Valley, NSW)

Pyramid Rock Festival (Melbourne)

Homebake (Sydney)

Woodford Folk Festival (Brisbane)

Good Vibrations (2012) (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane)


January

Big Day Out (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth)

Southbound (Perth)

Rainbow Serpent Festival (Melbourne)

Summafieldayze (Gold Coast)

Summadayze (Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth)

Soundscape Festival (Hobart)

Tamworth Country Music Festival (Tamworth, NSW)

St Jerome's Laneway Festival (Brisbane)

Thredbo Blues Festival (Thredbo, Victoria)

February

St Jerome's Laneway Festival (Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Perth)

Riverboats Music Festival (Vic/ NSW - Murray River)

A Day on the Green (vineyard-based events - Victoria, NSW)

National Festival of Australian Blues Music (Sydney)

Soundwave Festival (Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth)

Earth Freq (Sydney)

Between the Bays (Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula)

Clarence Jazz Festival (Hobart)

March

Future Music Festival (Brisbane, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide)

MS Fest (Hobart)
Soundwave Festival (Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth)

Corinbank Festival (Canberra)

Nannup Music Festival (Nannup, WA)

Port Fairy Folk Festival (Port Fairy, Vic)

Brunswick Music Festival (Melbourne)

love ran xo

Drift away with Traveller and Fortune

As we head into Spring and leave August behind,  the high of the Adelaide International Guitar Festival is still lingering in the air.

For those looking for that next hit of indie folk music and strummin' banjos, let me introduce you to Traveller and Fortune.

There's something both refreshing and familiar about Adelaide indie-folk group Traveller and Fortune. Their songs are beautifully constructed melodies and harmonies, with lyrics equally as thought out and just as touching. Each song by the band will take you away to a different place, and it's certainly somewhere you don't want to leave in a hurry.

With a growing fan base in their home town of Adelaide (South Australia), Traveller and Fortune are about to take their music over the borders to launch their new single "Little Plastic People."  With a fair bit lined up for the coming weeks, including performing at the BIGSOUND conference in Brisbane later this month,  Tom West from the band took some time out of packing his bags and harmonica to chat to Ran Type Music about the music, the single and the upcoming gigs...


RTM: In your own words, how would you best describe the music of Traveller and Fortune?

T&F: We like to have songs that sound a bit like stories, with ups and down. They're generally bittersweet and we like to use a lot of different instrumentation to create moody soundscapes. We like to showcase the song's lyrics that we hope are always interesting and tell a unique or unexpected story!

RTM: What are you looking forward to most with your upcoming tour?

T&F: We're most looking forward to playing some really fun shows in front of new crowds. We're also really excited for the BIGSOUND conference where we are playing two showcases and meeting up with some really cool industry people.

RTM: "Little plastic people" is your new single - what's special about this track to Traveller and Fortune?

T&F: Yep, its our new single but its actually quite an old song. It featured on our EP from a few years ago, but we've decided to re-jig it with the new band dynamic,  its a bit more hillybilly this time around. We still love the song cos its fun to play but we also like the 'idea' of the song.

RTM: What can people expect at one of your shows?

T&F: A diverse set, highs and lows and lots of harmonies.

Traveller and Fortune are touring as of September 8th; to find out more about when you can catch them check out their Facebook Page.   You can also listen to their music online on Soundcloud
and Triple J Unearthed.  I'll be at their gig on the 15th at Jive in Adelaide - See you there!

Traveller and Fortune are:

Ally - Vocals, Ukulele, Sax, xylo

Tom - Vocals, Guitar, Harmonica, Mandolin

Emily - Vocals, bass, Keys

Ryan - Vocals, keys, drums

Todd - Bass, Banjo, Lapslide, Vocals

A huge thank you to Traveller and Fortune for their time,

Ran.

Upcoming Gigs - Keep your eyes and ears peeled!

There is no shortage of live gigs around Australia, and even the smaller towns are having some fantastic names knocking on their doors.

Here are a few gigs that have caught the eyes of Ran Type Music!  Remember to check out your local gig guide for something different to do on your weekend - or even for a bit of mid week mischief!

Click on the links to purchase tickets.

Nina Las Vegas and friends - Triple J House Party

The Beautiful Girls - 10 Year Anniversary Tour 

Dappled Cities - Lake Air Tour

[Check out Dappled Cities Like a Version Here]

Oh Mercy - Deep Heat Tour

Last Dinosaurs - Satellites Tour

"Last Dinosaurs provided an exciting set..with the Bloc Party tick of approval it seems these guys are only set for bigger stages in 2012," Fastlouder, Spin Off Festival

And don't forget to to catch good friends of the blog Hey Geronimo  on their "Special Best Tour"!

QandA with...Loon Lake

Three brothers and two mates make up the garage-pop band from Melbourne Loon Lake.  

Loon Lake - 3 bros and 2 mates

Since forming in 2010, "Loon Lake," - comprising of Simon, Nick, Sam, Dan and Tim, -  has become a well known name within the Australian music scene, with hits such as "Bad to Me" featuring regularly on national radio station, Triple J.   The group have also been prolific performers, performing at Big Day Out, Groovin' the Moo as well as touring with UK band, Kaiser Chiefs.

One day before they perform their sold out show in Adelaide, Simon from the band took some time out to answer a few quick questions about the music industry, the journey so far and what we can expect from their new EP "Thirty Three".

RTM: The band Loon Lake formed in 2010 and since then you have conquered everything from festivals such as Pyramid Rock and Big Day out right through to touring with artists such as Bluejuice and Kaiser Chiefs.  What have you learnt from performing alongside such seasoned performers?

LL: I think having the opportunity to play alongside those guys who have obviously been doing it for so long, shows how far you can take it and how much you can improve. One thing that I noticed with touring with the Kaiser Chiefs was the level of professionalism, every night and through every detail. They seemed to have a great amount of respect for their fans, every show they did was to their full capacity to what I could see. I think what you have to remember when being a live band, no matter where you play is that every time you can win one new fan over. And that's important, no matter what the gig is you should play like its your last, because punters can detect when you are not enjoying it or giving it your all. High profile bands are seasoned at that - they have played shitty gigs too, but they get to the position they are by persistence dedication and handwork.

RTM: You are currently headlining your own tour, promoting the new Loon Lake EP "Thirty Three" - what can people expect at a Loon Lake gig?


LL: Every time this question gets asked I find it really hard to answer, as I guess I have never seen a Loon Lake gig. In comparison to our previous headline shows we have definitely stepped the production side of things up. We have spent more time and effort on presenting more of a 'show' to the punters. Within our limits though I guess - we don't have a revolving drum cage hovering above stage. Yet. Musically, we have definitely got some more treats in store, obviously with a new EP comes new songs to play, which is exciting for us. We are yet to play our song 'Cherry Lips' live yet, which will be fun for us to see how it goes down. I feel we are playing a lot tighter at the moment too.

The boys will be performing in Adelaide tomorrow night,
as part of their "Thirty Three" tour.

RTM: How would you describe Loon Lake's music to someone who had never heard it before?

LL: I would probably describe it is 'garage pop' music, that has a penchant for melodies and hooks. Not sure though, I think its best to listen to us and make up your own mind. People might hear it completely different to what I do. That's the good thing about music, it subjective. Some might like it, some might hate it.

RTM: Talk us through the name of the EP - Why "Thirty Three"?

LL: Ok, firstly that is the name of one of the tracks on the EP. In particular that song is about someone who has got to that age and sort of realised 'what am I doing in life? Do I need to change/settle down kind of thing?' Then after we recorded the EP, we realised there was kind of an underlying theme throughout the songs, basically it is about change, and getting to a particular point in your life and working out what you want and need. It was something we all agreed on and we felt that was an apt title.

RTM: Three brothers in the band...how is it traveling and performing together?

LL: It's all fine. We are good friends and we hang out a lot so there are no real dramas, and if there is they usually dismissed very quickly. There are obviously moments where you get under each others skin, but I think this is common within any close relationship. I guess you can't really hold a grudge for too long, as at some point in time you have to go home and hang out with the rest of your family. They don't want to hear your petty band problems.

  


RTM: I love the Pic of Last Dinosaurs singer Sean wearing a Loon Lake t-shirt!  Do you feel a sense of community in the Australian music industry - particularly amongst up and coming musicians?

LL: Yeah that was great hey. We played with them a couple of times and they are top lads, he really liked the shirt so we gave him one.  It was cool to see that he was wearing it in a press shot. They are a top band too, I really like some of the licks their guitarist uses. I do think there is definitely a sense of community amongst the young bands, everyone is appreciative of everyone and definitely trying to help each other out. At the same time I guess you are all doing your own thing and trying to pave your own road, but generally all the bands we come across are great to each other. You have to be as you run into each other all the time. I think the elder statesman in Oz rock are cool too. The Jebediah crew were some of the nicest dudes I've met.

RTM: After the "Thirty Three" tour, what's in store for the boys from Loon Lake?

LL:  After the tour we are really concentrating on writing more songs as we are thinking about our debut album. I mean the writing has already begun, but I think we really need to make a concentrated effort to work hard on making a very good and cohesive debut album. I feel the debut album is one of the defining moments of a bands career, it's definitely important to do the very best you can with that.

In terms of live shows, we have a couple of things like Bigsound and Queenscliff, we are obviously hoping for more summer festivals and supports and stuff. But generally that is where we will be for the next year, we may go a bit quiet as we concentrate on the album.

To find out more about where you can catch Loon Lake on their "Thirty Three" tour, head to their website.

You can also connect with the band on Facebook and Twitter.

Loon Lake are

Sam; Vox, Guitar, Keys

Sime; Guitar

Dan; Guitar

Timmy; Bass

Nick; Drums

Ran with Simon from Loon Lake

QandA with...The Cathars

They don't come as fresh as The Cathars - The Indie Rock Band formed early 2012 and in the short space of time since then, have featured on Triple J unearthed, released 2 singles and have begun working hard on their Debut EP which they hope the have released by next year.

With influences such as Bloc Party and Crowded House, The boys from Brisbane work with "the sole purpose of expressing ideas and innovation in the medium of songwriting." Full of energy, emotion and attitude The Cathar's 2 singles currently available for download.

The Cathar's have two tracks available
for download on Triple J Unearthed

The boys took time out of working on their Debut EP to chat to Ran Type Music about influences, changing the name of the band and what they see for The Cathars in the future:

RTM: Before 2012, members of The Cathars were performing as "Pools and Trumpets" - why the change and why now?

TC: The name change really reflected a bigger change within the band. Our music was evolving and becoming a bit heavier and rough around the edges, and we felt that ‘Pools and Trumpets’ felt a bit too twee and playful for the kind of music we were producing. We also associated the name with our first year of playing some lacklustre, dodgy gigs (with awful hair cuts to match).



RTM: How would you describe The Cathars sound to someone who had never heard your music before?

TC: On our bandcamp we use the words “slick” and “visceral” to sum up our sound, and I think these two words sum it up quite well. It’s always tricky to pin down your own sound, but a lot of people have said we sound like Bloc Party and Arctic Monkeys. I would describe the music us as having solid tunes with clever twists and a great rock riff here and there.

RTM:What artists or bands did you listen to growing up? Which musicians of our time do you hope your kids will listen to growing up?

TC: We all listened to different stuff growing up, Mitch listened to The Beatles and Crowded House and I (Ryan) listened to a lot of classic rock and 70’s progressive rock. Our later influences all overlap though, with all of us having an appreciation for bands like Arctic Monkeys, The Beatles, Bloc Party, The Shins, Kings of Leon (primarily their first two albums) and Bob Dylan. I hope my kids will be listening to a lot of the stuff that my dad listened to! Pink Floyd, Paul Simon, and other classics, although I do reckon that a handful of contemporary bands will stand the test of time.

 

Kanye: The Cathars do the best cover of ALL TIME!

RTM: Collaborations have been huge in recent months, particularly across genres...if The Cathars could work with anyone, who would it be?

TC: Kanye could appear on the cover we do of his song “Hell of a Life”, we’d get a kick out of that! Not sure if we’d welcome his constant interruptions though...

RTM: Who (or What) inspires The Cathars music?

TC: I know that Mitch is inspired by great melodies, the song writing process, and generally learning his craft, and Harrison is motivated by the success and accomplishments of our fellow local bands (Last Dinosaurs, DZ Deathrays). For me it is very much the privilege of being able to perform and share our own stories and experiences through songs and performance. Playing and listening to music has always been quite an intimate form of communication, and I think it transcends the kind of stilted and limited exchanges that we usually have with strangers on a day to day basis. I know that for all of us lads though, it’s really a labour of love all round, and having a drink and a laugh together at band practice is usually just as great as writing and playing the music itself.

Finish this sentence;

By this time next year, The Cathars will have...

TC: Released their debut EP, gigged profusely, written a tonne of new songs, and hopefully worked up quite a sweat.

RTM: The Cathars have just finished recording a couple of new songs - what can we expect from these new tracks?

TC: At the moment there is just one primary track we will be releasing within the next month or two. It’ll be called “Picnic and The Lightning” - think “Teddy Picker” by the Arctic Monkeys, with more abstract lyrics. Pop with attitude. 


RTM: Any upcoming gigs that we can catch you at?

TC: Nothing confirmed yet but we will be announcing a slew of upcoming gigs in the near future. Stay tuned!

RTM: Finally, What is the ultimate goal for The Cathars?

TC: We want to keep writing and performing music with a view to taking it (and ourselves) all around the world and, in a more immediate sense, have as much fun as possible while creating a memorable and high energy live show.

You can check out The Cathar's music on their soundcloud page, or download their tracks from triple J unearthed. Tweet at or Like the guys on Facebook for more information on when they may be gigging at a venue near you.

The Cathars are:
Harrison Tang (lead vocals, rhythm guitar)
 Mitchell Laney (bass guitar)
Mervin Milburn (lead guitar, backing vocals)
and Ryan MK (drums, insults).


A huge shout out to The Cathars for taking time out to answer some questions for RTM :) If YOU know any musicians you think would like to have a profile up or answer some cheeky questions, email Ran at rantypemusic@gmail.com.