The Cat Empire, Dorsal Fins @ Melbourne Zoo Twilight Series, Melbourne (07/03/2015)
This is the final show in the Melbourne Zoo Twilight Series, and on arrival it is almost impossible to find a free patch of grass. The sun rests low in the sky as we meander through an audience composed of families, adults, and oldies, settled on their picnic rugs and folding chairs. We find a spot with just enough space. We sit and enjoy the tranquil scenery and atmosphere as we wait patiently for the two animal-related acts to begin.
When Dorsal Fins walk out it is to the music from those anti-piracy movie ads everyone is familiar with. It could be a joke or a statement of some sort, but most likely is just for dramatic effect. In a similar way to The Cat Empire, the band combine a range of instruments and sounds to create music that defies genre. Ella Thompson’s voice cuts through as she shares vocal duties with Jarrad Brown, leaving him to sit comfortably behind. After a few songs, Jim Lawrie and Jacky Winter join the band on stage for their vocal parts in indie rock song ‘Cut the Wire’ (probably the only song it is safe to classify). About halfway through the set Ella steps back and Jarrad leads the way for a while, and then she returns for the finish. The show Dorsal Fins put on is both diverse and intriguing and appropriately prepares the audience for what is coming. It seems very appropriate for The Cat Empire to play at a place that is also home to numerous big cats (and meerkats too). |
Throughout the night, the noises they make are at times animalistic, with bird-like whistles and elephant-like trumpets (and trombones). They play a decent selection of songs as well as add in the more-than-occasional instrumental jam. Some people in the audience stand, and some dance along.
The Cat Empire are their usual talented yet humble selves. At one point Harry James Angus says: “Give it up for everyone, pretty much everyone.” Their set is full of crescendos and various musical flourishes, but it isn't until ‘Two Shoes’ is played that the majority of those in the audience who are still sitting decide to stand.
Before playing ‘The Wine Song’ Harry mentions our country’s treatment of asylum seekers, plugging the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC). He says: "Go to our website or go to their website. Go to our website and it will take you to their website in some amazing way." People in the audience then wave their arms as The Cat Empire play.
Towards the end of the night they play ‘All Night Loud’, and Felix Riebl’s voice is especially reminiscent of Paul Kelly during the song. After this the band exit the stage only to return for an encore of the infamous ‘Hello’ and ‘The Chariot’.
There are smiles all around as we work our way through the crowd. People gather their things and fold their rugs and chairs, their conversations form a collective hum that surrounds us.
Nathan Fioritti
The Cat Empire are their usual talented yet humble selves. At one point Harry James Angus says: “Give it up for everyone, pretty much everyone.” Their set is full of crescendos and various musical flourishes, but it isn't until ‘Two Shoes’ is played that the majority of those in the audience who are still sitting decide to stand.
Before playing ‘The Wine Song’ Harry mentions our country’s treatment of asylum seekers, plugging the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC). He says: "Go to our website or go to their website. Go to our website and it will take you to their website in some amazing way." People in the audience then wave their arms as The Cat Empire play.
Towards the end of the night they play ‘All Night Loud’, and Felix Riebl’s voice is especially reminiscent of Paul Kelly during the song. After this the band exit the stage only to return for an encore of the infamous ‘Hello’ and ‘The Chariot’.
There are smiles all around as we work our way through the crowd. People gather their things and fold their rugs and chairs, their conversations form a collective hum that surrounds us.
Nathan Fioritti