music review – Bec's adventures in music

The Triffid – Brisbane – 21 June 2019

Ray, lead singer of West Thebarton at the Triffid 21 June 2019 — Ray – West Thebarton – The Triffid – photo Bec Harbour

If you are not from Adelaide, you might not realise that you pronounce the second half of West Thebarton’s name as theb-arton not thee-barton. Formerly known as West Thebarton Brothel Party, they recently dropped the extra baggage and became a band to see live.

There are things that can make or break a show for a photographer and 2 of the biggest happened at West Thebarton’s stop at The Triffid, bad lighting and an unruly crowd. In between the venue getting plunged into darkness then bathed in all of the lights and being clocked in the back of the head by a punter we do what we can.

The evening kicked off with Being Jane Lane, one of my favourite local bands. They always seem to be having such a good time on stage and tonight was no different. They were followed by A. Swayze and the Ghosts. Frontman Andrew Swayze didn’t stay on the stage long, climbing over the barrier into the crowd to a chorus of “do a shoey” (note to fans – they dont do shoeys and they are gross – stop asking for them). I very much regret not going and seeing A. Swayze and the Ghosts at BIGSOUND last year, from all accounts they went off at all venues they played at.

After an amazing set from 2 amazing support bands the anticipation for West Thebarton was building. Touring for their latest single Tops and some great live shows to back them, this was a much anticipated gig for many. And they did not disappoint. They played a ripping set including Moving Out, Set It Straight and of course their new single Tops. Lead singer Ray telling the crowd at one point to “have fun and enjoy yourself, but don’t be dick” when drinks started getting dropped over the D barrier (maybe some people weren’t letting go of the shoey thing?).

West Thebarton were Tops. They have a loyal following and most people were there to have a good time and see some amazing music played. Great gig from a great band, with great choices in support acts.

Gallery – photos by Bec Harbour

The Foundry – 1 June 2019

Natalie Foster – Press Club at the Foundry – photo Bec Harbour

Press Club have just finished touring around the UK and Europe and have just dropped themselves into an Australian tour. You would think that they would be exhausted but no. Press Club put on one of the highest energy shows that I have seen in a long time.

They were supported by local band Blussh (who I missed as I had a 40th to attend) and Melbourne band Mid City. Mid City played a high energy set but were left looking lethargic (they weren’t) in comparison to Press Club’s energy.

Singer Natalie Foster came on stage with the biggest grin and engaged with the front row of adoring fans. They reeled off song after song from their release from last year Late Teens as well as the single they are touring for “Get Better”.

It looks like they are back off to Europe and the UK again in August, if you can I highly recommend that you get along and see them while they play these smaller shows in Australia – the audience interaction and energy is well worth it.