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Review: Allison Browning
SHOWBAG opened the night, filling the room with melodic
harmonies from Glen Musto and Jodie Bartlett. The band made it
clear they work well together with a very cohesive performance.
The Panics followed, offering a well-rehearsed set, and
opening with their new release, Cash.
It was a brilliant starter, sounding even better played live
than on the radio, courtesy of its rich sound-scape, which makes
it easy to compare to Ride in their heyday.
If Cash is a reflection of their soon-to-be-released
album, it is sure to be a winner.
After an explosive start, the band settled into a comfortable
groove (perhaps waning a little), but found some more gusto with
new song, Cracking Wall, despite only being played live
a few times before.
The Panics went out with a blast, ending the set with the crowd
favourite Fire on the Hill, delivered with a massive amount
of energy.
They certainly set the high standard of things to come, as Mark
Gardener followed.
Gardener, supported on guitar by part-time Ride keyboardist,
Nick Moorbath, opened with a big smile and simple introduction.
He could have been mistaken, at first, for any Perth local delivering
an acoustic set.
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Any doubt about the simplicity of the arrangement for the night
was banished pretty swiftly, however, as Gardener revealed he
is vocally stronger since his Ride days. As he eased into the
set, he delivered with contagious emotion.
Received by many giddy and attentive faces by those who remember
Ride's beginnings, the evening had an aura of respect and enthusiasm
which is rarely seen in many Perth events.
Gardener introduced some new songs, including For You
and one humorously dubbed, 'Meat on a Bone', that was written
while in Australia. It showed the man can still write a 'killer'
song.
It was the old hits that got the biggest response, however, with
Dreams Burn Down and Chrome Waves working brilliantly
acoustically.
The set had the dreamy nature of Ride, as Gardener and Moorbath
managed a rich sound, both vocally and acoustically, on guitar.
But the depth of sound that Ride is known for was replaced by
an understated simplicity that allowed emphasis on lyrics which
are usually deeply immersed in the sound.
After the thunderous floor-stomping demand of an encore, Gardener
and Moorbath returned, still full of enthusiasm, and finished
off the night with Dreams Burn Down, which drew a massive
response and part standing ovation.
The Fly by Night Club must be noted for its contribution to the
atmosphere of the evening.
The cabaret-style seating, coupled with the generous standing
room, made the night relaxed and intimate.
Die-hard fans were treated to a meeting with Gardener after the
end of the set, during which he appeared relaxed and chatty, as
he greeted those who waited and signed every paper-scrap and album
offered, thereby completing a truly inspiring night.
Many thanks are due to Steve and Andrea.
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