{Jinja Safari Will Make You Wanna Jump! Jump!}

Ok, ok, so I know it's supposed to be Kriss Kross that make you wanna jump but Jinja Safari sure had the entire Hi Fi Bar in West End a jumpin on Friday night.

After an exhausting week of working days at my paid job and nights at Bigsound I was feeling a little flat but hopeful that my favourite live act would inspire all remaining energy to surface and get my tooties a tapping at the very least.

Support act Okenyo opened the evening. Their lead singer and namesake, Zindzi Okenyo provided some powerhouse, soulful vocals that were backed by psychedelic rock guitar, mystical synths and reggae-esk drums. They were good but after a few tracks I found their sound a little same, same and got lost in conversation with some lovely ladies (who have impeccable taste in music) that I unexpectedly ran into. The highlight was watching the truly unique and thoroughly entertaining dance moves of the guitarist.

Next was Cub Sport (formerly Cub Scouts). Their name might have changed but their music and live performance remains just the same... freaking awesome! These Brisbane sweethearts are just adorable. Their baby faced look, 90's inspired fashion, undeniable musical talent and infectious tunes had the crowd captivated.  The title track of their latest EP 'Paradise' and the song that started it all 'Evie' were stand outs.

Then it was the moment we had all been waiting for.... Jinja Safari took to the stage and they did not disappoint. The tootsies were certainly a tappin (I might have even managed a few jumps!)

The set was jammed packed full of energy and truckloads of fun! From repositioning the lead vocalist to the top of a table amongst the crowd, skilfully balancing on keyboard stands with keyboard held high above head, crowd surfing with said keyboard, seriously spectacularly sitar strumming and switching up instruments, this set had it all. The crowd went off and my energy levels improved ten fold. Jinja Safari still have a very firm grasp on the title of best live act for this music lover. It was all amazing but their cover of R. Kelly's 'Remix to Ignition' really went off. It was one big ol jar of awesomesauce!!

It was one hell of a night and the highlight of my weekend. Great food, great company and great live music! Next week is jam packed full of amazing artsy events with Brisbane Festival being in full swing. Make sure you head along over the next few weeks and catch some of the action. I'm off to see my favourite album of 2013 so far 'Not Art' by Big Scary performed live as part of the festival this Saturday night, Eeeeeee can't wait!!!

Suffering with Sundaynightitis? Why not check out next weeks events I envy and toe tappin tracks to lift your spirits!

Happy gigging,

Kt

{It's Official, I'm a TWT Groupie!}

Ok so it's no secret that there is a special place in my heart for Brisbane band The Trouble With Templeton. I've seen them play twice already and when the chance to head along to last weekends gig at The Zoo came up, I jumped at it.

I got to the venue not along after doors opened to see the band members along with other Brisbane music greats mingling with the slowly building crowd. A beer later and openers for the night and Triple J Unearthed High finalists Vancouver Sleep Clinic took to the stage. I was sitting when they started so they were heard before they were seen. The information my ears were getting did not compute with what my peepers eventually were seeing!

This band who have been compared to Bon Iver, have a mature and developed sound, like they have been at this for years and live they did not falter. When my eyes rose to the stage I was met with the image of five pre pubescent lads... I guess they are still in high school after all. They were amazing, angelic vocals, beautiful instrumentation and undulating synths, heaven to the ears and soul. I can only imagine what great things are yet to come from these lads. Haven't heard them? Have a listen now! https://soundcloud.com/vancouversleepclinic/vapour You won't regret it!

I'm writing this a whole week post gig (and the addition of tap king Lionel to my household) and as a result I can't actually recall who the second support act was... sorry, my bad. They were good, not bad but obviously didn't leave a lasting impression....maybe I was sooo excited for the TWT that I couldn't focus?

And then it was time for my favs to hit the stage! This was the best performance I have seen from them, they seemed at home playing in the Zoo and had the support of many - the gig was a sellout.

They started with well known track 'Six months in a Cast' and the crowd were singing their little hearts out in time with this rocking track. The set was over all to soon and as If I had some kind of unseen connection with Tom himself (I'd like to think we have a connection, he might disagree), they saved my favourite song off their album 'Rookie' till last. Keep and eye out for the release of single 'Lint' and see for yourself why I love this track so much!

It's a big week ahead for the Brisbane live music scene with Bigsound kicking off on Tuesday and you guessed it the TWT are playing!  They are keeping in good company with oodles of great acts joining the line up. Looking for something to do midweek? Come along and say hi, I'll be issuing wrist bands to all the lucky punters!

Happy Bigsound week, Gig on!

Kt

{The Best Night of 'Work' in My Life!}

On Thursday night last week I went to my first official work (Radio) gig! That's right I was a guest on the door list! Didn't I feel like a VIP. Here's a snippet of my report on the night:

After a cider and some quick meet and greets it was time for the first band of the evening, local electronic indie outfit MTNS. Lead vocalist and guitarist Tom Eggert (of Cold and Need) started the set solo. Within seconds his hypnotic vocals had hushed onlookers, captivating the small crowd. Band mates Joseph Tiang (Drummer/ Samples) and Robbie Hellberg (Bass/Synth) joined him and despite some minor technical difficulties, they delivered a set full of beautiful undulating synths and mesmerising beats coupled with Melancholy lyrics. It was over far too quickly for me.

Co headliner, Sydney singer songwriter Iluka’s powerhouse vocals punctured the sedate mood left in the wake of MTNS’ performance. Her smoky, rapsy sound and mature onstage performance (as well as her look) were reminiscent of the greats of old. The influence of the music of the last fifty years was evident in her songs that still managed to achieve a new, different and more modern sound. She commanded the stage and while her band provided great musical support, all eyes were on the leading lady. To think that she is only twenty-one years old is mind-boggling and I can only conclude that she must be an old soul. The set ended with a bang as this enchanting young songstress delivered her latest single ‘Glory Days’.

Local sweethearts Avaberree were the final performers for the evening and evidently the crowd favourites with the venue getting closer to capacity for this final act. These girls won the hearts of many with their single ‘Lover of Mine’ that since it’s release in 2012 has enjoyed ample airplay. The sound check took what seemed like an eternity to this tired reveller but was well worth the trouble and wait – the sound was just suberb. Avaberre (Aimee, Genevive and Irena) delivered impeccable harmonies that were sweet and smooth like honey. I couldn’t help but feel that these girls were old friends given their cute and familiar on stage banter. The simple beats provided by an electronic drum kit and minimal synths were the perfect compliment to their harmonic vocals, giving their Acapella sound a modern edge. The night ended on a soaring high with the debut performance of their new single ‘Running Out’, a punchy track with a real 80’s vibe that had the crowd a bopping.

These three bands all rocked, go see them!! I've been spending the last few days taking it easy trying to knock a cold on the head before I head to the Snow on Sunday! Have the best week, i've updated the events and tunes for next week in advance, catch you the week after next!

Happy Friday,

KT

{Festivals Promising Snow and Grass Deliver Rain and Mud.... but Great Music}

I've been out of action for a while and I apologise, for some reason the call of the couch and reality TV has been very, very strong for the last month. So alas no blogging.... I did however manage to escape the comfy cuddling grasp of the sofa to enjoy more than one Music Festival over the last few weeks.

First up was Winter Fest at the Eaton's Hill Tavern. A Festival promising great music, real snow, igloos and snowboarding demonstrations. I'm a life time South Sider so this was my first visit to the venue that has been booking some big name musical acts of late (thanks to their new bookings agent, an ex Powderfinger member). When I left the Southside the weather was just glorious but as always the North Side let me down and it poured rain! Thankfully all the music at this 'Festival' (and I use the term loosely) was based inside in the Grand Ballroom which is a fantastic space (it's like a larger and more modern Tivoli).

There wasn't much not to like about this event - the ticket prices were low, the music was pretty good, they delivered on the Snowboarding despite the rain and drumroll.... they were serving full strength alcohol! My highlights were a band whom my love for is no secret The Trouble With Templeton (I even scored a pre set smile from Tom Calder as he walked past...) and the lovely long haired lads from Kingswood.

The Trouble With Templeton.

A day to recover, a day to pack and I was off to Volunteer at Splendour in the Grass! I met so many lovely people and the music was fantastic - Alt J were the stand out for me. I take my hat off to the sound and lighting techs - I couldn't fault their work at all and kudos goes to Lorde who stepped in last minute to replace Frank Ocean and delivered a delicious set!

Some fine looking ladies...

The distance between things, the poorly managed mud, the tent stage size vs crowd size, mid strength alcohol and seriously shitty phone reception were all let downs.... It's their first year at this new site so I hope it's only onwards and upwards from here. I'm looking forward to seeing how the stage set up changes as they continue to increase the number of tickets sold by 15% yearly.

As always the best bit was the annual festival catch ups with old friends! As I sit here experiencing the lows of the post Splendour blues after the soaring highs of the festival I take solace in the thought that I won't have to wait another 12 months to get my Festival on in Byron.... Falls is on it's way, yay!! Only 5 months to go!

Happy speedily fading blues... only one sleep till the weekend,

KT

{Great Music is No Trouble For The Trouble With Templeton}

One of my most favourite Brisbane bands, The Trouble With Templeton have just dropped a new tune! The official first listen was on Triple J last night at 6pm, unfortunately the only music gracing my ears at the time was the repetitive hum of my trusty drill at work. Yuk!

Pre internet I would have had to have arranged for my sister to sit with radio cassette player, blank tape at the ready to hit record at the right moment (and I'm sure I would have owed her) ...Thank god for Soundcloud is all I can say! When I finally broke free from the daily grind and opened up the app on my phone there it was, sitting at the top of my stream like a smooth glass of red waiting to wash away my work day.

The tune You Are New is another shinning example of the musical magic that is Tom Calder. The track is a slow dance between the acoustic and electric guitar and drums, backed by beautiful vocal harmonies, with Calder's emotive vocals taking centre stage.

The lyrics, in true Calder style are clever and just a little obscure leaving them open to interpretation. 'Quiet askew, you are so deranged but well assured'. I can't get enough of this band, and this track which is slower and less punchy than prior offerings, really demonstrates the reach and talent they possess. 

Give it a Listen here! Their first album Rookie is released on the 2nd of August, I can't wait to get my hot little hands on it!

There is sooo much good music being released at the moment, check out this weeks toe tappin tunes for new stuff from Snackadactal, Boy and Bear, The Paper Kites and more! Treat you ears and have a mid week office boogie!

Happy discovering (and dancing),

KT

{The Southside Tea Room Satisfies the Senses}

First of all my apologies for being a total slacker last week, this winter weather has zapped my motivation in a big way. I'm sure no one noticed but this blog has been static for a week or so.... Sorry to any of you (or maybe none of you) who raced to check out the tunes and events last Monday and were left high and dry. Now on to the artsy stuff!

On Saturday I finally checked out what is a local venue for me The Southside Tea Room. It's been open for over a year now and is the baby of The Grates front woman, Patience.

Image from here

It was a freezing evening and we were glad to get inside this cosy venue to see Tori Lee and The Phoncurves hit the stage. The decor of this place is just delightful! It's full of little knick knacks and I would describe it as vintage meets kitsch (and my childhood!). There were benches made from old doors, a magic eight ball to help you make your drink choices at the bar, arcade games and a range of delicious looking beverages served in old jars.

We grabbed a seat at an old school desk (complete with tidy tray), talk about flash back! I was a little wary I might get detention for swinging on my chair... 'But I couldn't help it Miss, the music was just too good!'.. and it most certainly was.

I have harped on about the Phoncurves and their harmonies in an earlier post so I won't bore you with too many details... they were fantastic as usual and did the most hilarious cover of MIA paperplanes, if your haven't seen these lovely ladies perform yet, keep an eye out.

The Phoncurves, Tori Lee and my company, the lovely LK!

The real delight of the night for me was Tori Lee. I have never heard of her or any of her music before but it was just lovely, as was she. I'm sure she will be popping up around the traps of the Brisbane live music scene more and more in months to come so if the chance arises to see her make sure you snatch it up!

In short the Southside Tea Room is for me! Can't wait to head back there for one of the many events they host... live music, street fighter comps, clothes swaps, life drawing classes.. they really do have it all!

Have a great week, don't forget to check out this weeks tunes, what's happening in Brisvegas and the lovely artwork of a good friend of mines most talented Uncle,  Lew Brennan (turn to the left of your screen now.)

Happy chilly morning sleep ins,

Kt

{Sydney Shines Bright}

My first night in Sydney was a beauty thanks to Vivid. Vivid is all about music, lights, art and ideas. After dark the city lights up with installations, fireworks, projections and performances.

Whilst having dinner at Darling Harbour I was treated to a surprise fireworks show that is part of the festival. Every night fireworks are let off from floating pontoons in the middle of the Harbour. Fountains and lights also featured and the show was worth braving the wind and rain!

After dinner (still in the wind and rain) we headed down to the Rocks to see some of the light displays, it was amazing! The use of projections on iconic buildings was truly breathtaking. Here's some piccies I snapped of the installations, art and projections.

It's on until the 10th of this month so if you are heading to Sydney soon, treat your senses to this amazing display, the lights are on after 6pm each night.

Happy hump day eve,

KT

{A Weekend Alive with Live Music}

Well my toes are tired from tapping and my ears are well and truly satisfied after a weekend jammed packed with some amazing live music performances.

Friday night kicked of the musical mayhem with my first visit to Fortitude Valley Venue The Hideaway. My new internship with 4ZZZ has given me the chance to listen to the music of some great Indie bands that I may never have stumbled upon otherwise and Owls of the Swamp are no exception. They grabbed my attention a few weeks ago and with a little further research I discovered their Friday night gig!

Owls of the Swamp

The venue is cozy and has a intimate, island vibe. I'd say there was a maximum of thirty excited spectators which meant I could enjoy a of few of my favourite things: a seat, a great view of the stage and no waiting at the bar! Pete (aka Owls of the Swamp) was simply amazing. If you love your Indie folk tunes as much as I do give him a listen (why not do it right now).

Brisbane Indie Rock outfit Drawn from Bees were next to hit the stage. Turns out my lovely giggin buddy LK was old friends with the cellist performing with band for the evening. I won't bore you with too many details but they were great. The band has a few key members and multiple guests are drawn to the stage well....like bees, at different times for different tracks.

Drawn from Bees

Exhausted after one night of great music (and a few too many wines) LK and I dragged ourselves to The Tivoli to see the hunky spunk that is Matt Corby. Wowzers, I've never seen a line like it at this venue, Matt it seems is a very in demand man (I cant imagine why). After a slow crawl into the venue we snabbed a spot that was well towards the back but luckily a bit elevated.

Grace Woodroofe

Grace Woodroofe was the only support for the evening. She has a killer voice, super strong with a sexy raspy quality and we loved the track she kicked off with. Towards the middle of the set the mood got down right depressing, It did nothing to boost my waning energy levels. Her music has a 90s grunge rock appeal, and for me her album wouldn't be something I could listen to in one setting but would welcome to a play list. In saying that I would have had this album on repeat as an angsty teen.

Matt Corby

Matt was magnificent! Talent, charisma, charm, rugged good looks, a smile that is, well just a bit nice and a voice that you could never get sick of. If he returns to Brisbane I wouldn't hesitate to head along again (and again, and again.)

This week my day job has taken me to chilly Sydney.... I wonder what artsy treasures I might stumble upon while i'm here... stay tuned!

Happy Brisbane Sunshine,

KT

{A Sunday Saunter}

After a few failed attempts I finally made it to QAGOMA to check out the Creative Generation Excellence in Visual Art display. Thirty one pieces created by 2012, year twelve art students from across the state are on display. They were selected from over 500 entries and I have to say they are fantastic, these kids have talent!

Here's a sneaky peak of some of the works. Of mention is the piece in the top right hand corner that is made entirely of paper! Very fine and beautiful work indeed. Who this piece was by and its very clever name elude me at this point in time.... guess you will have to head along and see this lovely work for yourself to find out! 

Another that really impressed me is the top left below, It's By Brisbane Grammar student Lachlan Marshall and is titled Fractured view. I was sure it was a photograph until I read the label... It's a painting! Wow eee!

The overwhelming winner for me was a portrait by Cleveland District High School Student, Jordan Azcune. Maybe I'm a little biased towards this local work having lived in the Redlands for most of life so I'll let you decide!

All in all it was a really fabulous (and free) exhibition, it's continuing until August so make sure you pop along and see the states up and comers in the world of Visual Art!

Being that I was already in the area I took the opportunity to pop into the State Library to check out the QLD Live Band Culture display. 

It was a little disappointing I'd have to say. Firstly it's tiny in comparison to publicity that surrounds it. Secondly it really neglects current band culture in Brisbane, yes there is a fancy mural to current bands and a life size photograph of one of the walls in iconic live music venue The Zoo.... but that's it! The best bit for me was the audio visual display that features some figures key to the survival of Brisbane's live music scene sharing their stories. Really interesting stuff. 

It looks like there is a program of music events to accompany the display and I would recommend heading along to an actual performance then perusing the display after. One its own, not really worth the trip. 

Speaking of live music, I'm off too enjoy two nights of giggin in a row this weekend! How spoilt am I? I hope you have some amazing weekend plans too.

Happy Sauntering,

KT

{Mad for Matt}

We've all been waiting patiently for the smooth croon of Matt Corby to treat out ears with some new music and that wait is finally over!

Matt Dropped his new tune Resolution just after 8am this morning and it's a winner with me. Give it a Listen here!

I'm off to see him play at The Tivoli next Saturday with my sister.... Swoon...Can't wait!

Happy Hump day!

KT

{Catching Courtney won't cost you a thing!}

Chances are you've heard of Melbourne singer Courtney Barnett. Her single History Eraser has enjoyed a long stint of play on the airways. I'm loving her music, it's old school slacker sounds and anti-folk lyrics.

Image from here

She is currently on the road supporting Something for Kate which means she is in Brisbane this week. That means you have three chances to see her and two of them are completely free! 

You can of course catch her at the Something for Kate gig but if you are watching the pennies, catch her in-store at Jet Black Cat Music West End on Wednesday, 6.30pm or in a Sunday sesh at the Southside Tea Room, 4pm.

Been living under a rock and haven't heard of Courtney? Give her a listen here!

There is heaps of other fabulous stuff (some of it free too) happening in town this week, looking for something to do? Check out the links list to the left titled Event Envy!

Happy free giggin,

KT

{Fantazzztic New Beginnings!}

Happy Monday kids! I hope your week has kicked off well. Mine was just spectacular. I started my very first day as a Music Department Intern at Community Radio Station 4ZZZ today!

I was beaming with excitement as I left the house today and I wasn't disappointed. My day was pretty fab I'd have to say! I've still got tonnes to learn and definitely need to brush up on my musical genres but I can't wait to get back in there in a few weeks time! It's nice to be working in an area I'm passionate about, even if my role is pretty minor.

Any hoo enough about me, there are some pretty awesome things happening around town this week so check out the events I envy links list to the left. I've stumbled across some great new toe tappin tunes for this week too (a lot of them Local or Aussie), make sure you check them out!

Anyone else embarking on new adventures this week?

Happy Monday,

KT

P.S. Tune into to 4ZZZ @ 102.1fm

{Revelling with the Rubens}

Last night signified the final outing in what has been an exhausting but seriously awesome week of live music for me. My trusty gig partner Cass and I went to see The Rubens at the The Tivoli. After deriving much enjoyment from their drummer's biceps (and of course their music) at last years Splendour in the Grass we jumped at the chance to see those muscles (and the band) again!

MT Warning

Support act MT Warning took the stage first. The Indie Rock band from the birth place of much musical talent, Byron Bay didn't disappoint. The sheer power of the lead singers voice wasn't missed by any! I really fancied their set and will be getting more familiar with their tracks in the near future.

Oh Mercy

Then the stage turned blue for Melbourne's Oh Mercy. Their set was polished, live performance perfection and I expected nothing less from these experienced musicians. It was quite surprising to see such an established act supporting a band on their first tour and I was left wondering if some of the crowd may have been in attendance purely to see Alex Gow in action. 

The Rubens rockin out

After a wait that in my opinion was faaarrr to long The Rubens hit the stage. The Tivoli have invested in a very exy lighting rig and they are certainly not afraid to use it. The band rocked out behind a light show that left River Fire looking like garden variety fairy lights. The music was great, the crowd interaction top shelf and those arms....... I wouldn't be challenging Drummer Scott to an arm wrestle ever!

I was a great night, an even better week and I'm spent! Tonight I have a date with the track pants and couch! What live music treats have you seen this week?

Happy Saturday, party on,

KT

{Local live music loving}

The theme of this week for me is live music and today was no exception. This time the venue was Room 60 and the bands, two I wasn't really familiar with. Harry Brown and Fire and the Whistle Theory. I'd come across Harry on a weekly Soundcloud expedition but as for the other, I knew nothing - and that was exciting as hell, would I discover something new and awesome?

Within moments of being on the stage it was apparent that Harry Brown had that 'thing', I guess you could call it presence, or charisma perhaps. There were plenty of Hiccups along the way and it was by no means a polished live performance but it lent itself well to the teeny tiny venue and was super fun! I kind of felt like I was at house party, in a random garage listening to a spontaneous jam. There were originals, both comical and serious and some spectacular covers including Britney Spears and my favourite for the night the Captain Planet theme song! Harry was down to earth and at times comically self deprecating, overall a seriously likeable guy. His EP is highly likely to feature in my collection soon.

Harry Brown

Next up were Fire and the Whistle Theory - three guitarists, a drummer and lead singer crammed onto the cosy stage. At first the vocals were lost, smothered by the instruments but after some quick adjustments by fellow musician Harry, I was suitably blown away by singer Mason. Amazing vocals- smooth but rough, bluesy but rock, spectacular range - so not what I was expecting to hear at a free local live music night! And like the previous performer this guy had 'it', scores a 10/10 for crowd interaction with me! I don't think these guys have a release yet but i'll be following them closely on Soundcloud, Unearthed and Facebook to make sure I don't miss their next move.   They have scored a main stage spot and the Red Deer Festival this year - If you are planning on going don't miss them - you'll be sorry you did.

Fire and the Whistle Theory

Only one work day left till the weekend! Yeee Haaaa! What have you got planned? I think I might head out the the Tivoli for some more live music tomorrow night (just for something different).

Happy one sleep till the weekend,

KT

{Vance - Joy to the ears}

Public Holiday eve for me was Vance Joy night! After slugging away at work for a day that felt like it might never end, I raced home, threw on my dancing shoes and trekked into the valley. I was off to catch up with old friends, meet some new ones and listen to a seriously good looking guy with the voice of an angel play some tunes from his EP God loves you when you're dancing.

A new friend of mine making a new friend in James (Aka Vance)

No doubt you've all heard of Vance Joy (James Keogh), his lovely folk tunes with pop influences have seen him go from unknown fresh talent to sell out artist almost overnight. Fans and critics alike have thus far had nothing but pure praise for this Melbourne based artist who has enjoyed support slots for Julia Stone and Of Monsters and Men as well as playing at SXSW.

Too much fun was had catching up with old mates and then meeting new ones before the gig and sadly I didn't get a chance to hear the first support act (a rarity for me!) I arrived just in time to see the second, Mosman Alder. The venue was pretty packed and we stole a sneaky vantage point standing on a chair. The music good and the band have talent but the tracks had a sameness and the band members spent more time starring at the floor than making eye contact with crowd. As a result we lasted maybe two songs before climbing down and letting the rest of the set provide the backing track to our chatter.

When it was just about time for Vance to hit the stage we quickly scrambled back up to our prime viewing position and waited.  His performance was just beautiful. This guy has an exquisite voice and is one hell of a story teller with his songs taking us all on a stirring journey of unrequited love, heartache and more. A band provided back up for some, but not all of the set and James seemed more at ease on stage alone with his guitar. I think it would be fair to say that he had everyone (or at least every woman) in the crowd captivated. 

The highlight of the night was definitely when he whipped out the ukulele to play Riptide, the crowd seemed to enjoy the whole set but this final song had them going wild! It seems that Vance Joy is the man of the moment - and I would say this is going to be one hell of a year for him! If you get a chance to see him defs don't pass it up! I'm in love!!

Happy ANZAC day and Lest we forget, 

KT

{When serious like blossoms into live music love for HKH's latest album}

Byron, sunshine, good friends and a Hungry Kids of Hungary  gig - there wasn't much room for improvement with my Saturday. I decided to bypass the Hi Fi gig and head the The Northern Hotel in Byron to see HKH this time. It's a much smaller venue and with the population of Byron and its' surrounds just a teeny bit smaller than Brisvegas, it guarantees a more comfortable and intimate gig experience.

Them Swoops hit the stage first and had already begun playing when we arrived. In short these guys were good. I certainly wasn't going to bar them from my music library, but I wasn't rushing to the merch desk to immediately add them to it either. I think I'll have to spend a bit more time getting acquainted with this band before I can pass a strong comment in either direction.

The Preatures hit the stage next. Their début track Take a Card had me impressed enough to go and see these guys live over twelve months ago and I was very impressed with their performance then, so expectations were high. Too high perhaps, overall their set was lack lustre. Aside from their two big hits they failed to engage the crowd. Why such a difference a mere twelve months later? The band set up. The female of the group performed in the lead vocal spot this time and while her voice is good, she's a bit dull and seriously lacks the charisma of her male band mate. I don't know why they made the change and can only hope it's temporary.

Finally the HKH were on! I've seen these guys live at least three times and their performance is always top notch. This was no exception. They managed to showcase their new album Like a Shadow well (and had me move from being in serious like with it to in Love with it in a jiffy!) but still played some of our old favourites  They were in touch with what their audience wanted and delivered!!

Me with a few of the Hungry (and Scary faced) Kids

I picked up their album at the end of the night and had every intention of getting it signed..... I'm not sure if it was the opportunity to have a photo with the band or the few too many beverages I consumed during the gig that distracted me but alas, I forgot! Next time perhaps.....

If you ever have the chance to see local kids HKH live jump at it! I can almost guarantee they will please with a track record of 4/4 for me!

With tomorrow being a public holiday tonight is a great opportunity to catch a gig, I'm off to see Vance Joy at Black Bear Lodge. What will you treat your ears too?

Image from here

Happy public holiday eve and giggin,

KT

{Hooray for Record Store day!}

This Saturday is Record Store Day and Jet Black Cat Music have some seriously smashing celebrations planned!

Image from here

Haven't heard of Jet Black Cat? You can find this groovy little record store on Vulture Street in West End. It's sure to be a spectacular day with in store performances from Thelma Plum, We all want to, Morning Harvey and a mystery band (ooooo surprises!! I love surprises!).

Morning Harvey - from here

Thelma Plum - from here

Just like your local RSL there will be a raffle! But I'm sure the prizes will trump the old meat tray any day. And as if that wasn't already good enough JBC promises some rad giveaways and drum roll .... CUPCAKES!

Image from here

They will be open from 9am till late! So if your Saturday is looking wide open, why not make a date with Music and head along. 

If you do please tell me all about it! I'll have to live vicariously as I've already got a hot date with some amazing music planned this weekend. Look out Hungry kids of Hungary, four seriously good looking ladies are heading to Byron Bay to spend the night with you ;)

Happy Record Store day for Saturday,

KT

{Not quite blown away by the ballet}

First of all I must apologise for my slackness over the last week, i've been so full of egg shaped chocolately goodness I have barely been able to move! But today is the first day of my chocolate detox and as a result I have been able to update this weeks toe tappin tunes and events I envy (sorry it's a week overdue). I hope you enjoy them as much as I have been enjoying choccie eggs!!

On Saturday I got all glammed up and headed along to see Cinderella the Ballet at QPAC.

We started with dinner at the Lyrebird restaurant and as always the food was to die for! Thoroughly enjoyed by all! Unfortunately I can't say the same for the ballet (for me at least). While the dancers and their physical prowess and technical skill were 10/10 I was left a little bored. In a word this performance was safe. The set, costume, characters and choreography didn't stray by even a step from the Cinderella story we all read as children.

Maybe this is what most were expecting and it was my solo desire to see something a little different that left me a bit sleepy. If you love sparkly costumes and brilliantly skilled dancers then you will love the Queensland Ballet's latest work, if you're after something different that pushes the envelope then you are best to sit this one out.

Happy Monday!

KT

{Captivated by Cavalia}

Yesterday I had the pleasure of heading to see Cavalia with my lovely Mother and gorgeous sister.

We headed out of the heat and into the Big Top with plenty of time to knock back a wine before the show started.

The show was incredible! I can not recommend it highly enough. The feats of the performers and horses are second to none. The three of us have ridden a horse or two in our time and know how difficult it is to get those splendid but sometimes stubborn creatures to do what you want with reigns and a saddle, let alone when you are standing on the ground controlling six horses with nothing but words! We were blown away.

While the number one wow factor is of course all of the amazing things the four and two legged performers can do, the set, costumes and music (provided by a live orchestra and singer) were dazzling.

The show has been extended until the 7th of April. If you have no plans over easter and are ready to blown away by these majestic creatures and their human companions I strongly suggest you head along!

Happy horse loving,

KT