Manchester Orchestra, Royston Vasie @ The Hi-Fi Bar, Melbourne (07/03/2012)
The night kicked off with an abundance of noise as support act Royston Vasie took to the stage with a ‘give it our all’ attitude. Covering for original support act Cabins , the garage rock group delivered a performance that left some intrigued and chatty, whilst others turned back for a third beer. The aesthetically challenged band did however bust out with a few ballads that left one guy banging his head furiously. Still, we weren’t quite sure what these guys were about. Perhaps a few more years and Royston Vasie will be right on track.
Once the clock struck 9.30pm, highly anticipated indie-rock band Manchester Orchestra appeared with a smile and a wave, thanking everyone for making an appearance. Lead singer Andy Hull (with a voice that somewhat resonates that of lead singer Ben Bridwell from Band Of Horses), explained his amazement at how many fans they had gathered in Melbourne, with their first show selling only thirty tickets. Originating from the renowned city Atlanta, Georgia, the trio brought a little piece of home with them, as portrayed through their beautiful – nostalgic melodies.
Tracks from the band’s second album Mean Everything To Nothing sang their way into the crowd early, with lead guitarist Robert McDowell and keyboardist/percussionist Chris Freeman mimicking the lyrics privately in appreciation. It also allowed for songs from their latest album Simple Math, released in May 2011, such as the electrifying April Fool. Fragile lyrics composed with sharp, yet delicate guitar riffs gave rise to lead singer Andy Hull’s story of piecing his life back together, embarking upon a new journey with his closest friends – the band.
A definite ‘wow’ factor to their performance had to be the double drums. With Chris Freeman multitasking between piano riffs and heavy drum beats, fans watched in amazement as he mimicked the already talented drummer, Tim Very. The crowd was speechless, not a sound could be heard but the fading plucks of Hull’s guitar.
Ranging from casual gig-goers to loyal fans that knew every word, the basement room filled with harmonies as fans raised their fists and sang along with Hull. The emerging nonchalant audiences that seem to be growing around Melbourne certainly weren’t a problem here. This was beyond refreshing, as could be seen on almost everyone’s face.
Encores are as encores were. Some find them tacky, others grasp to every last moment that is their favourite band. Tonight was different. As each member disappeared off stage , Andy Hull remained and acoustically performed songs from his solo project Right Away, Great Captain, released in 2007. Gut wrenching lyrics about the relationship between father and child left us feeling a little numb. As Hull’s solo material came to an end the band piled back on stage and performed their popular single I’ve Got Friends, regularly played by Triple J. It was a close with a bang as fans jumped back and forth, screaming the lyrics back to the band. The future certainly looks bright for these Georgians!
Kim Tedge
Follow me on Twitter! - @kimmers90
Once the clock struck 9.30pm, highly anticipated indie-rock band Manchester Orchestra appeared with a smile and a wave, thanking everyone for making an appearance. Lead singer Andy Hull (with a voice that somewhat resonates that of lead singer Ben Bridwell from Band Of Horses), explained his amazement at how many fans they had gathered in Melbourne, with their first show selling only thirty tickets. Originating from the renowned city Atlanta, Georgia, the trio brought a little piece of home with them, as portrayed through their beautiful – nostalgic melodies.
Tracks from the band’s second album Mean Everything To Nothing sang their way into the crowd early, with lead guitarist Robert McDowell and keyboardist/percussionist Chris Freeman mimicking the lyrics privately in appreciation. It also allowed for songs from their latest album Simple Math, released in May 2011, such as the electrifying April Fool. Fragile lyrics composed with sharp, yet delicate guitar riffs gave rise to lead singer Andy Hull’s story of piecing his life back together, embarking upon a new journey with his closest friends – the band.
A definite ‘wow’ factor to their performance had to be the double drums. With Chris Freeman multitasking between piano riffs and heavy drum beats, fans watched in amazement as he mimicked the already talented drummer, Tim Very. The crowd was speechless, not a sound could be heard but the fading plucks of Hull’s guitar.
Ranging from casual gig-goers to loyal fans that knew every word, the basement room filled with harmonies as fans raised their fists and sang along with Hull. The emerging nonchalant audiences that seem to be growing around Melbourne certainly weren’t a problem here. This was beyond refreshing, as could be seen on almost everyone’s face.
Encores are as encores were. Some find them tacky, others grasp to every last moment that is their favourite band. Tonight was different. As each member disappeared off stage , Andy Hull remained and acoustically performed songs from his solo project Right Away, Great Captain, released in 2007. Gut wrenching lyrics about the relationship between father and child left us feeling a little numb. As Hull’s solo material came to an end the band piled back on stage and performed their popular single I’ve Got Friends, regularly played by Triple J. It was a close with a bang as fans jumped back and forth, screaming the lyrics back to the band. The future certainly looks bright for these Georgians!
Kim Tedge
Follow me on Twitter! - @kimmers90