miss nz

Written for the good people at www.muzic.net.nz

2005 saw the formation of four piece indie-rock act Motocade who have developed their unique sound over the years to bring us their solid debut album, Tightrope Highway. They’ve built themselves up from touring our country and have seen success from the releases of two immaculate EP’s – the first being self-titled Motocade, which threw them into the spotlight over the entire year of 2006. And their infamous second named Into The Fall, featuring instant TV and Radio hit My Friends which was enjoyed by thousands at some of our largest events like, Big Day Out, Rhythm And Vines and Homegrown. They’ve been constantly gaining fans and recognition over the years it’s taken to release their album, so the anticipation and hype surrounding it have come as no real surprise.

Turn on your radio or telly these days, and you’re likely to be treated to the first single off Tightrope Highway cleverly named Oldest Trick In The Book. It’s a catchy tune that is receiving all the attention it’s worthy of, and gives you an excellent indication of what their debut album sounds like. It’s punchy with front man, Eden Mulhollands erratic vocals and has music from the tight crew to match. If you know their EP’s, you’ll find this to be a new sound from the boys which I’ve noticed at gigs of theirs over the past couple of years. It’s definitely an exciting change that’s not to be ignored, and one that I’d be proud to watch them successfully take to the world.

You’ll see a softer side to the band in the first few tracks and even hear snippets of their 2008 single, Soap Opera in the sugary song, Kissed In Time. It boasts all the charming freshness I remember from the first time I saw the lads grace the stage with fellow kiwi boys Pluto, which is something I deeply admire about this entire album. The first glimpses of Mulholland’s distinctive vocals come from Flying Saucer and Commandeering which are really quite sweet and are guaranteed to steal at least a few hearts with lyrics like, ‘Hey little darling don’t you see, all those big things they ain’t so scary’. Of course it wouldn’t be Motocade without throwing in some melodic ‘ooohing’ that they’re so well known for, and there’s plenty of that to feast on throughout, let me assure you.

She Got Deaf is one we were informed would appear on their album at an intimate gig a few years back, so I’m glad to see the guys stuck with it. I’ve got fond memories of that show so this song has a ‘jam session’ feel to me. It’s relaxed with a punchy beat and despite the name is an easy listen that could even be enjoyed over a nice cup of tea. Radio favourite My Friends is slotted in half way through the album which surprised me as it already features on their Into The Fall EP that came out in 2007. In its place I would love to have seen Soap Opera which is equally as catchy minus the huge amount of airplay of My Friends. Still, it’s a delightful track that I’m happy to listen to over and over, and one I think of as an ‘old favourite’.

Another surprise comes from the track Tightrope Highway which again is quite different to the lads’ earlier sound. It’s one of the more unique songs on the album, and to be honest I’m glad there’s not more like it. The lyrics are great, but the idea behind the backing vocals is questionable. Luckily their latest single release, Oldest Trick In The Book along with Comeback Kid and Octopus quickly make up for it with their more familiar sound and beat. Knowing and loving their older pieces, it took a few listens to understand where they’re headed as we rapidly approach a new decade. But I’ve come to embrace it and can recommend the album to both first timers and fans from way back when the band first started out. These guys know what they’re doing, and I think Tightrope Highway will be the one take them to places that they should have been years ago.

Amanda Ratcliffe

For more of my reviews like this one, visit: www.myspace.com/i_love_nz

The last time I saw The Datsuns play in the Tron was when they tore it up at The Yellow Submarine in mid 2008, drawing in one of the most energetic and dare I say, messy crowds I’d ever seen down there. We’re talking arms and legs batting others over the head, crowd surfing, yelling and a whole lot of jumping up and down, making it one of my most memorable gigs to date.
Since then the rockers have performed their way round some of the most talked about venues in the UK, and now they’ve come home to tour our country once more.

They’ve got a massive following and as soon as I saw their Hamilton date, it was penned into my diary and covered in hi-lighter so I could be part of the action at The Altitude on Thursday night. Who cares about work the next day, this is one band that can’t be passed up for anything - even with the risk of feeling pretty shitty the morning after. I don’t think the lads would have it any other way, really…

Opening their electric set with Yeah, Yeah, Just Another Mistake, Sittin’ Pretty and Little Bruise, I was surprised to see a somewhat tame crowd tapping their feet delicately to the heavy tunes. But as soon as they started System Overload off 2006 release, Smoke & Mirrors the mass was whipped into the frenzy I remember so lovingly. Pushing, shoving and long hair comin’ at ya’ from all directions were the treats on offer, and I couldn’t help but chuckle at some of the people getting involved. I think my favourite was seeing this girl and guy flip each other the bird before starting a yelling match. That chick was fierce. Tyra would have loved her!

Playing off the energy from the munters in the crowd, the lads pulled out their trademark rock n’ roll moves, stretching back and whipping their guitars effortlessly into the air while they enjoyed the view off stage. Watching front-man Dolfe de Borst scream into the mic during songs like Stuck Here For Days and Hong Kong Fury was a devilish delight that had me and many others gagging for more which of course we received throughout the show.

It can’t go without mention how envious I am of these guys’ stamina and skill. Rocking an impressive 19 song set, not tiring once, only to come back on stage to give us three more tunes including radio hit, High school Hoodlums. They’re not the type of lads to bust out a smile mid-song, but it’s obvious that they love what they do, and are quietly excited with the reactions from the crowds they pull. I’d have to say the songs of the show that will stay locked in my memory box are Who Are You Stamping Your Foot For?, Mother Fucker From Hell and Harmonic Generator. Each performed to the dirty Datsuns perfection we know so well. Catch them while you can!

Amanda Ratcliffe

For more of my reviews like this one, visit: www.myspace.com/i_love_nz

*Written for the good people at www.muzic.net.nz

This soul inspired Wellington act first came to life in mid 2005 when vocalist Elan Mills decided it was high time he put his days of self indulgence behind him. To begin a journey filled with funky rock n’ roll music that goes by the name, The Volunteers. Calling themselves a ‘motley crew’, the band consists of six members who were all carefully hand-picked by Mills himself. Come 2009, the bunch is now ready to introduce their music to the world with their debut release, Friends Family & Fools.

Pick up a copy of the album and you’ll find a beautifully put together piece of art that gives you a great understanding of the band’s style without even listening to it first. It’s an eclectic mix of funk soul and rock n’ roll all mashed into one to bring to your ears a sound that is truly unique and scarcely found in our country. The first tracks, You Had It All Along and Hold On To This One are both swingingly sexy classics that are familiar and easy to listen to, while The Hound has a slight country feel to parts of it.

This Broken Host has a beautiful intro with treats from the piano which flow throughout. It’s an eerie and sombre track but brings with it a lovely change to the others on the album. The Fool comes with a similar sound minus the piano, but is equally haunting and attractive to my secret lonesome cowboy side. All Of Me is a simple tune with the intro boasting rich bass lines. Giving off some smooth hints of jazz, this song is enough to make even the most un-co person in the room whack out some finger poppin’ and look the part.

The Volunteers originally set out to release a debut album with a distinct sound full of all of the members influences - blues, rock n’ roll, funk and soul, and they’ve certainly hit the nail on the head with this CD. Lovingly produced over hours spent at the Island Bay Studios in Wellington with producer/engineer Nic McGowan, they’ve managed to achieve all of the above and then some. They’re one’s to watch and I’m looking forward to hearing more from them in the future.

Amanda Ratcliffe

Visit www.myspace.com/i_love_nz for more of my reviews like this one.

To be honest, I’d be pretty surprised if you told me you hadn’t heard the name DateMonthYear getting thrown around at some stage seeing as they’ve been around since 2003. But for those of you who haven’t, let me tell you a little something about the group. Describing themselves as more of an ‘anti-band’, the idea behind the act is to make music without the ties of being in a band. No restrictions, just a ‘flexible recording and performing unit’ if you will.

Having released a series of albums over the past few years, Hamilton’s DateMonthYear have come out with another to add to their list of treats, cleverly named Pot/Kettle/Black.
This album is set to take you on a journey through heavenly pop melodies that I can quite happily recommend you listen to on a lazy Sunday afternoon with a selection of your favourite chocolates.

It’s an easy listen with songs like Awake and Wrong which will have you drift off to that dreamy land where everything is light - even though the lyrics are quite sad, the music is bright enough to see you through without shedding a tear. Tracks like Hometime and Prophecy are goodies for kids who like their music a little more danceable, and have made me want to see what these guys can do live.

Then there’s Asleep which features my favourite instrument of them all – the tambourine so of course it’s an automatic winner in my books. Although you’re taken through different sounds, the entire album fits effortlessly into the ambient/pop genre without any confusion. If you’re a keen fan of angelic vocals and music to match, DateMonthYear’s latest release, Pot/Kettle/Black is one for your collection.

Amanda Ratcliffe

Visit www.myspace.com/i_love_nz for more of my reviews like this.

I go by the name, Miss NZ. Not in the beauty pageant kind of way that you’re most likely thinking, but for my fondness of our country’s diverse musical talent. I love it, so it only makes sense that I’d head down to Wellington’s waterfront for the second homegrown festival to see what some of New Zealand’s more popular acts have been working on over the year just gone. With names like The Black Seeds, Fur Patrol, Tiki and Supergroove, it’s easy to see how the event was a sell-out again, so here’s hoping this becomes an annual treat for the capital.

Starting off the freezing cold day at the Indie stage with a few other early birds, Auckland’s Brain Slaves put on a wicked show that should have packed out the venue. Instead I think I’d be pushing it to say that a hundred people turned up. Last year we saw the lads grace the stage as The Coshercot Honeys who played all of their tracks off their EP, We’re All Lions. I must say I’m rather dissapointed with the name change, but their new material makes up for that. Songs like Die For Me and Dancing Queen were beautifully performed and are one’s I’m looking forward to hearing more of in the future. Chuckling their way through White Roses made the kids up the front do the same. It sounds ridiculous to say, but I think that moment may have just been by favourite of the entire day! Well, that and watching front-man Sasha Carlson scream erratically in the much-loved 2007 hit, We’re All Lions.

Seeing as I spent most of my time at the Indie stage last year I decided that this time I’d give the other areas a whack. The evening there consisted of Dimmer, Weta and Head Like A Hole, which didn’t really appeal anyway, so this was a plan that I was happy to stick with.
I’ve seen Streetwise Scarlet a few times last year and wasn’t very impressed, but curiosity got the better of me, so the Rock Stage was my next stop. Again, the guys had nothing special to offer, playing through their songs like every other time, with little enthusiasm or excitement across their dull and rather tired faces. It looked as though the crowd seemed to feel similar coz’ I didn’t see too many hands in the air. Even for their ‘C4 song’, Let’s Go.

Luckily Bang Bang Eche had more than enough treats on offer to get my dancing shoes on which were to last for the rest of the day. These kids are full of beans and produce some awesome tunes that make it impossible not to fall in love with them. I’d have to say my favourite song of their set was 4 To The Floor which saw the crowd leaping up and down for more, while front man Zach Doney threw himself around the stage with his free flowing locks in his face. There’s never a dull moment watching these kids who play off the energy of the crowd which was constantly growing in size as their set went on.
Having not seen them before, I can now safely say that I’m quite the fan of these youngsters who we can proudly call our own.
Nice work kids!

Heading back to the Rock stage for some pop that everyone knows, it was time for one of the happiest bands on earth, Elemenop. Having seen them plenty of times before, I was kind of looking forward to seeing something new from the group who have now been around for six years. Nothing had really changed since I last saw them in the middle of last year, but it was nice to have a sit down and enjoy some familiar tunes from the popular kiwi icons. Opening with bag pipers, made me wonder what we were actually celebrating while the Scottish couple next to me joked about ‘not being able to get away from the damn things’. Thank goodness it wasn’t long before they got into a song everyone could sing along to, Nirvana, which was followed by more radio hits like Pay For It and Verona.

One of the acts of the day I was most looking forward to was The Checks. They seem to get better every time I see them, and Homegrown was no exception. These lads are huge, and it’s easy to see how they manage to draw in a massive crowd of both the guys and the gals. Personally I think they should have been on the Rock Stage seeing that they have opened for the likes of Oasis and Muse in the past, but still it was nice to have the intimate feel that the Indie stage brings. Blasting out their newer tunes which are to grace their album due out in June, they got the crowd going before heading into some of their well known songs – Take Me There and Terribly Easy. Ed Knowles charmed the ladies with his sexy eyes and beautiful manners thanking everyone for coming along. Ooooh these guys are hot, and most definitely going places!

The Black Seeds had already started by the time we got to the Dub stage, but after a wicked performance by The Checks, I wasn’t too upset. We were there in time to hear the popular band play some of their newer hits like Slingshot and Make A Move which was a nice change to their usual stuff that I’ve heard a few times over now. Standing right at the back of the tent, this short ass couldn’t see a thing – shame, I do quite like to watch DJ Mike Fabulous get into the music so intensely. Cool Me Down was one of the last tunes the guys performed, which I reckon should’ve been re-named Warm Me Up. At this point in the evening it was freezing and we were just about ready for a cup of tea, some grand dad slippers and a knitted blanket!

Kora was next on the list, and to be honest, I think they were next on most people’s because the Dub tent didn’t seem to thin out. If anything, it probably got even more packed out as my friend and I found ourselves dancing against the rubbish bins for the most part of the show, but man am I glad we stayed! I’ve heard only good things about this band, so it only seemed right to choose them over other favourites State Of Mind and C4 cutie Nick D. The crowd danced up a storm to favourites off their self titled album and even though I didn’t recognise the music, I loved every minute of it and I can now say I’m a fan and am ready to get my running shoes on to race out and grab a copy of their popular disc to add to my collection.

Catching the end of Blindspott at the TSB Bank Arena before Supergroove took to the stage was a mistake for this little lady, I’m telling ya’. Those guys have always pissed me off, and hearing them talk in between songs made my feelings of hatred grow even stronger. Don’t get me wrong, they’re a talented bunch and I won’t lie, they did a damn good job of getting the crowd hyped up for Flex – so good that I even found myself singing along. But by the time they finished their efforts were quickly undone by calling the crowd ‘scumbags’ and the likes. Charming. I guess their fans must like being treated like pieces of shit...
I’m just glad this was only a reunion show, or whatever the hell they named it.

After an intermission that was long enough to fade my anger, Supergroove were ready to put on a show not only for the fans of their music, but the inner child in us all. Watching vocalist Karl Steven trip around the stage made me wonder if they ever went away in the first place? Or maybe he’s been secretly dancing over the past however many years to keep his fitness, because lets be honest, even though you it doesn’t show, he is getting on. The lads sung crowd favourites Can’t Get Enough, Sitting Inside My head, and we were even treated to a beautiful version of Che’ Fu’s Fade Away. Wicked! Another un-expected treat came towards the end of their set when pop cuties Elemenop hopped on stage to finish with You Freak Me and Scorpio Girls. Dave Gibson looked a little uncomfortable at first with all the action going on around him, but that was soon replaced by his excitement.

Apparently this set could have been the last for the old-timers, as we were informed that they had no more dates on the ‘Supergroove calendar’.
Somehow I don’t think that’ll be the case, with the amount of people they drew in but I guess time will tell. If we’re lucky maybe we’ll see them again at the waterfront for another event like this one.
All in all homegrown proved a huge success once again, and man am I pleased it didn’t rain! How can you ever expect to win a beauty pageant looking like a drowned rat?

Amanda Ratcliffe

Visit www.myspace.com/i_love_nz for more of my reviews like this one.

The Parachute music festival has been running for a surprising 19 years now and with every year the organisation seems to be attracting more international acts and in turn, more happy campers to spend the long weekend hanging out in the sun sharing good times with friends.
Previous big names of the event include Switchfoot, The Donna’s and grammy award winners, Third Day, along with favourite kiwi icon, Dave Dobbyn who headed along yet again for another enlightening performance at this years festival.

Popular U.S lads, Family Force 5 were on the bill this year, so it was without a doubt high-time that this little lady went along to check out the concert for herself on the busiest day of the event – Saturday.
Arriving at Hamilton’s Mystery Creek nice and early to a half full car park and dust floating through the air was a pretty good indication of what the day would bring...masses of people and unbearable summer heat. Not a bad combo for someone who has spent most of the warmer months inside at a computer I guess.

Much of the morning was spent finding my way around and checking out what treats were on offer around the venue and I must say I was most impressed with the variety of food available! Everything from Subway and pizza through to frappacinos and delicious waffle cone ice creams were on offer as you walk in between rows of tents and kids enjoying crumping competitions. Oh yes, this festival has it all, including those really crazy gypsy fair type rides, like BDO favourites the Super Loop, Rock n’ Roll and the Gravitron.

Heading over to the debut stage, we checked out a couple of newbies performing for a reasonably tame bunch that was along for good music and a sit down in the shade over lunch time. Cutie, Holy Christina wooed us with her pure and innocent vocals first which was followed by youngster Geneva Peters and her band. Now, she was lovely and all, but to be perfectly honest with you, I spent most of my time watching her drummer who was pulling animal-like faces whilst jumping up and down in his seat. He was a star.

After a quick stop by that ice cream booth I’d been dreaming of it was time to hit the Palladium for an entertaining round of indoor cricket between American kids, Kutless and Family Force 5 who were up against our local punters. They managed to draw in quite the crowd of supporters who were out to see what the international rockers could do on the ‘grounds’. Looking hot in their skinny jeans and white polos I reckon these guys could make anything look attractive. Although I must say, our New Zealand team was looking pretty damn hot too; in matching white stubbies with the visible undie line, and matching polos.

Now, I’m not a fan of sports at the best of times, but I loved this game and would be more than happy to sit down for another. It was full of Mexican waves, lolly scrambles, people throwing themselves on the pitch and even a streaker! What’s not to love about that?! Of course in true rock n’ roll style the U.S fellas won the match but we were informed later in the evening by front-man of FF5, Solomon Olds (AKA Soul Glow Activatur) that ‘they only let us win because we’re Americans…’. Hmmm…cheeky. Either way it was a most entertaining early afternoon spent in the much needed shelter from the sun.

Next on my programme for the day were NZ kids, Kingston who were full of beans and ready to put on an action packed show. Man are these guys sweet with their power poppy tunes and smiles for Africa. Watching lead singer Dan Gibson race around the stage making sure that everyone in the crowd ‘got a piece’ was awesome and made me begin to wonder what he’d eaten that day for that kind of energy – I want some! The highlight of the show for me was probably the one they most want to forget, when Gibson jumped off the stage, unplugging his mic by accident. With a confused and rather embarrassed look across his face, he continued on like a trooper. Cute!

Rapture Ruckus has been a much admired act at the Parachute music festival for a few years now, so I was excited to see that he was on in the Palladium as I was making my way to check out some others at the Deluxe stage next door. Popping in for a ‘quick look’ turned out to be one of my best ideas of the day because this guy knows how to get the crowd pumping! Rapping his way through his set it was awesome to see everyone singing along and loving every minute of his enthusiastic performance. Playing the drums towards the end proved most popular and I watched in awe as he continued to wow the crowd.

It was a bit of a squeeze to get out of the hall and I’m sure I must have collected the sweat off about ten different people on my arms as we were eventually sucked outside into the cool air. I managed to miss the beginning of Tauranga’s pop rockers, Trigger Theory at the Deluxe stage, but to be honest with you; I don’t think I really missed much. I guess you could say they just weren’t my cup of tea so I was alright with the idea of heading back over to the Main Stage to check out what was to be my favourite act of the day. No loss for them though – they had a mass of fans rocking out to their tunes in the dark.

The Main stage was packed for head liners, Family Force 5 who wooed me earlier in the day at their press conference. Telling us stories of their ‘gang names’ and how they’d love to add someone to the group named Jandles – or better still, Jands. This lead on to some confusion over Pavlova as an Aussie reporter shamelessly tried to steal our icon off us. Much to the delight of the rest of the kiwis in the room, she was shot down by one of the lads who told her ‘I tried it here first’. These guys are charmers to say the least which comes across on stage as much as off.

Dressed in striking red, black and white suits the lads know exactly how to excite the crowd, jumping onto speakers while throwing their bodies into positions that most nanas like me can only dream of.
Songs like Drama Queen and Love Addict went down a real treat with the audience making everyone bounce up and down for more of the bands crunk rock antics. These guys have got amazing stage presence and are truly one of the best live bands I’ve seen. They’re something special that you have to see to believe. They might not be back for a while but they’re totally worth you tubing at least.

Another band that is worth a look is Hamilton power poppers, Arms Reach who I’d seen about half a year ago and was most impressed with. Seeing that they were on next, we headed over to see if the kids still ‘had it’. What am I talking about? Of course they’ve still got it – and then some. On form and just as I remembered, they stomped around stage blasting out their original tunes to the decent sized crowd they’d drew in. I think this time I’d have to say that guitarist/vocalist Jonny Carson put on the best performance of the group this time round as he twirled his body around the stage with all the enthusiasm I loved when I first saw the lads at the Meteor Theatre.

It was back to the main stage for the final act of my day at Parachute – Dave Dobbyn. Gosh this guy is lovely and it’s easy to see why so many people turned up to see his show. By this point in the day my feet were tired so it was nice to sit back in a comfy-ish seat and watch the brilliance from afar. The lighting effects were eerie with smoke machines blowing and looked beautiful against the night sky. Joined on stage with his crew of four others gave us spine tingles as they performed newer tunes - Wild Kisses Like Rain and Only Love Remains.

Of course it wouldn’t be right if our kiwi favourite didn’t do all his old well known tunes to sing along to, so in true Dobbyn style we enjoyed Maybe The Rain and Loyal to see the day out.
It was lovely and I’ll tell you what…Even that walk up the hill to the car couldn’t be ruined after such a perfect action packed day at Parachute 09.

Amanda Ratcliffe

Visit www.myspace.com/i_love_nz for more of my reviews like this.

I’ve got one word to sum up my experience at Big Day Out this year, and it’s ‘lovely’. Oh yes, it may be the lamest of choices when it comes to such a huge event, but I’m sticking with it. The weather was perfect – warm with a cool breeze, the crowds were a pleasant mix of young and old and the music selection was top notch. I’d even go as far as saying that this years festival was one of the best I’ve been to out of the five so far, so that’s got to be some form of validation for my word of the day?

Last year my crew and I caught a few buses to the stadium only to miss out on seeing one of my favourite NZ acts White Birds and Lemons. That was a bit of a stink start to the day, so this time we drove and parked a few minutes away to make it in time for the very sexy Bionic Pixie who was playing on the green stage at 10:30. We didn’t even have to wait to get through the gates…just a quick bag check followed by a toilet stop in hope to avoid the some of the massive ques later in the day.

After sun blocking it up we headed over to see the cuties that are Bionic Pixie. I saw them last year when they performed at Ward Lane in the Tron, so it’s safe to say I was pretty excited for another electric act from the trio. Watching singer, Zoe Fluery prance around the stage in her sweet little tutu-like outfit was a treat in itself. She’s gorgeous and makes it easy to see how the band is so popular for both the lads and the ladies with all that beaming confidence and hotness. I’d have to say the only time where a softer side was revealed was when the band experienced ‘technical difficulties’ leaving Fluery with little to say but as soon as it was sorted the team was back on form and as charming as ever.

Straight after, next door were equally charismatic locals, Clap Clap Riot who I also had the pleasure of watching in the Tron last year. I was well impressed to see the crowd they drew in who jumped up and down as the lads kicked around in their rock n’ roll attire. These guys are so energetic and it was wicked to see front man, Stephen Heard drop down to the front of the stage to put his face into one of the official photographer’s lenses. Best part of the set for me was definitely when they finished what was supposed to be their last song – Mama, before getting straight into C4 hit, I Don’t Want Your Baby. We watched as the organizers were yelling at them to get off the stage before eventually unplugging their guitar and bass from the amps. In true heroic style, drummer, Sam Mountain and Heard continued with their f-you attitude. Nice work lads!

After a quick uninspiring look at An Emerald City in the Boiler room, it was back into the sunlight to check out Auckland’s, The Naked and Famous. Standing to the side of the stage next to the booming speakers proved to be not such a good idea for us healthy folk, but I reckon with that amount of bass you could clear even the dirtiest of lungs! These guys are swell though. They performed some of my favourite tracks of their latest EP, This Machine like Serenade and Meeting People Sucks which were received with nothing but cheer and love from their followers.
It was a shame that singer, Thom Powers’ mic wasn’t turned up a few notches though – we could barely hear the poor boy over the other sounds coming through.

At about lunch time we had a wee sit down and checked out Brand New Math from under the shade of a tree on the bank before heading over for a look at The Trons. Thank goodness they were only on for about fifteen minutes, because you can really only watch so much of the same thing for so long without falling to sleep. I must say though, it’s quite amazing to see robots made from pieces of Meccano playing real instruments. I think these creative characters would be perfectly suited to a museum, but that’s just me. If you haven’t seen or even heard of them before I reckon they’re worth a look for sure!

Now this is the part of the day where I started to get a little bit excited about what was ahead as I made my way over to where the Ting Tings were performing. I managed to get a spot up near the front for a good look, but as it got closer to show time, the crowd closed in and suddenly I found myself with not such a good view after all…Nuts!
I did manage to sneak in a few peaks though, as blonde cutie, Katie White danced around the stage belting out tunes from their recently released album We Started Nothing.
I must say I was pretty surprised with how high her voice was live – especially when it came to yelling out ‘catch it, catch it’ from Fruit Machine. It kinda of sounded like she was saying cat shit to me. Wonder if anyone else thought that?! Hah.

Unblocking our ears we headed over to check out SideKickNick on the Local Produce stage. I’ve not heard his album, Miscellaneous Adventures, so I really wanted to see what else the popular lad could do. Radio hit, Something In Your Eye did it for me so I figured he’d be quite the treat to enjoy in the afternoon sun. I was quite surprised to find that the other songs were quite different. A bit like how The Mint Chicks’ Crazy? Yes! Dumb? No! doesn’t match the other tracks on the album. I hate to say it, but none of the songs really tickled my fancy but I’m glad I went along – especially when he told us that he was the only artist at Big Day Out who had come with a packed lunch. How sweet is that? I mean really?! I hope it was true, coz’ for that, I think I’m in love.

The DHDFD’s have been on my list of bands to see for so long now, that when I saw that they were playing, it was a no brainer. They were hi-lighted immediately on my nerdy photocopied timetable as a must see.
What can I say?
These guys know how to put on a show! I couldn’t quite believe my eyes as I watched front man, Scott Brown scream and yell at the sky, grasping his mic as if these were his last moments on earth. It was strangely beautiful watching him fall to his knees and belt out lyrics off their newly released EP, Fromage Du Pouvoir so wholeheartedly. I don’t know how else to describe these fellas. You just have to see them to believe, I think.

Half an hour later The Datsuns were playing on one of the main stages. Seeing as it takes about that time to get from point A to B, I figured I’d get my walking shoes on and make the trek.
It’s then that I realised just how lovely the fine folk were who had turned up for the day. I didn’t once find myself getting pushed out of the way by that guy with the sweaty armpits and my shoes stayed firmly on my feet for the entire event. Nice. Something else I was most impressed with was the steps going down to the main stage area…usually you’re left to fight your way through people coming in the opposite direction, but this year someone had come up with the smart idea of having one side for up, and the other for down. That person deserves a medal in my books. Yup.

Making my way to the front of the stage for home-grown lads, The Datsuns was pretty effortless and I was there in time to see them strut onto the stage with all the confidence of international rock stars.
With such charisma and four albums under their belts it’s not surprising that they got themselves a good turn out for their five o’clock slot.
They’ve been around and touring for years, so you’d almost expect the bigman attitude, but they were nothing but happy and gracious to the audience who rocked out to their raging tunes.
Everyone went nuts for radio hits, Highschool Hoodlums and Human Error off their latest album, Headstunts, and I must say I was most impressed to see the long haired lads pointing and smiling at friends they spotted in the crowd. Cute!

Holding our spot at the front of the blue stage for The Living End who were due to come on an hour later gave us a good chance to have a sit down and a cup of tea. That is until I realised that Serj Tankian was the talented singer from System of a Down. I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I had no idea that he was playing his very own show on the stage next door. Watching the crowds flock to see the man with the uniquely beautiful voice made me feel all warm and tingly inside. Sadly I only got to watch him on the big screen, but that was enough to make me fall in love with him all over again. I'm investing in his album and making plans to see him when he's back in our fine country in March. He's awesome and was so thankful of his supporters. What a guy…

Next was long time favourites of mine, Aussie rockers, The Living End. I've lost count of how many times I've seen the lads play, but I'm telling you now, I never get sick of their energetic performances. They're always into it and love watching the kids in the crowd singing along to all their popular tunes. Something I’ve noticed over the years is how they're constantly making young fans while keeping the oldies like me. West End riot and All Torn Down hold a special place in my heart and when ever they play them it's fair to say that I get just as excited as the young ones do over their new songs. They got everyone singing along when they started their radio hits, White Noise, What's on your radio? and Wake Up and you could see it on the band's faces how much they were loving it.

Once they finished their set it was funny to watch everyone move over to the stage next door for Myspace favourites, the Arctic monkeys who opened their set with a few of their new songs. I’m not sure if it was the wisest choice seeing that people just stood around like stunned mullets, but I guess it was made up for when the rather dashing lads got into a favourite off their debut album, Dancing Shoes. Everyone went ballistic and I watched as people were dragged out of the mosh pit one by one. I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor saw more hands and legs in the air followed by about six more disoriented folk getting pulled out of the D barrier. It was great. Because I wasn’t involved. A newbie that went down smoothly was Dangerous Animals which we were informed will be gracing their new album due out soon.

By this point in the evening, it was cooling off enough to make the body heat off others gathering for Neil Young a nicer treat than you would imagine. I think because the day was a lot cooler than others, there weren't nearly as many smelly pits in my face which was most certainly a welcomed difference to last years sweltering temperatures.
People just seemed to keep on piling in to see the old time rocker do his thing - not a big surprise seeing that he's a huge influence on so many bands today. It took about five minutes to get completely mashed into the crowd that was growing increasingly excited for the old man.

Strolling onto the stage, Mr Young was greeted with a flurry of hands in the air and enthusiastic ‘yeeeows’ from fans of all ages. There was almost a surreal feeling going on as we watched him get into some rather lengthy songs.
To be honest, I wouldn’t have a clue what they were and I’m not sure if many other people were that familiar with them either, but one thing I do know is that this guy got some major respect. Playing a couple of tunes that even I’m familiar with – Cinnamon Girl and Heart of Gold, it was then that I realized just how talented he is. I mean, he must be good if he sounds exactly like he does on the radio, huh?!
My favourite part of the set was just before the band left the stage…all of the members came together and took a bow. It was so sweet and warmed my soul.

Finishing at 10:40 gave us some time to head over to the Boiler Room to see if The Prodigy still ‘had it’. Seems they do…we couldn’t even get into the giant tent and ended up watching from outside with a whole heard of others dancing and singing along to some of their more popular tunes of the 90’s. They sounded awesome from outside and it was choice to hear front man Keith Flint yelling out ‘I can see you all outside’ during a funked up Smack My Bitch Up. I think by this stage I was pretty whacked, because I can’t even tell you what the last song of their set was. All I know is that we all had no trouble meeting up at The Trons before heading home to some noodles, showers and comfy beds. Aaaah…lovely.

Amanda Ratcliffe

Visit www.myspace.com/i_love_nz for more of my reviews like this.

It’s hard to believe that Dunedin’s electro-indie kids, Knives at Noon have only been around since August 07 when you hear the charming foot-tapping tracks gracing their latest EP. It’s fair to say these guys have put in the hard yards to get where they are today, but it’s clearly been well worth the effort, and I reckon 2009 will be ‘their year’.

After touring the main centres in the land of the long white cloud in May 08, the lads came together to record their second EP which is ready to be released this month meaning more live shows for us…yay!

Now, if you’re not familiar with the sound of Knives at Noon, I think it’s safe to say they’re a synthesized dance version of popular act, The Killers. They’ve kept the NZ accent – thank goodness, but they’ve got the kind of style going on that I reckon would appeal to the overseas market effortlessly. They’re definitely one band that us kiwis can be proud to call our own.

Push play on this EP and you’ll be greeted with front-man Tim McCartney’s strong vocals in Heat Up, which are carried throughout the whole track. It’s simple, sharp, and is the perfect introduction for what’s to come.

Purple Star boasts some dreamy drum beats created by Tim Couch while McCarney hit’s some slightly higher notes – a welcome surprise that compliments the sounds of the synth perfectly. Not as danceable as the first song, but a delicious treat for the ears and feet all the same and one that I’m really looking forward to see the lads perform live.

The third track is lively, upbeat and one to put your polished dancing shoes on for. Mix in a delightful opening riff, a few more of those higher vocals, a wicked drum solo with a dash of synth magic and you’ve got Daisy Chain.

This Scene is the final song to grace the lovingly put together EP. It’s a blend of the first three tunes and has a real homely feel about it that leaves you begging for more. The only thing I would have liked to have seen on this disc is the remix version of Heat Up, but I can understand why the lads left it out being that it is quite different. I’m just being greedy, really.

If it’s captivating electro-pop you’re after then I recommend giving the Knives at Noon lads a whack.
Trust me; you’ll be pleased you did.

Amanda Ratcliffe

Visit www.myspace.com/i_love_nz for more of my reviews like this.

Forming in 2007, Auckland rockers, Hangman have already managed to experience their fair share of gigs and tours with some of our countries more popular acts. Playing along side names like Battle Circus, The Wicks and Stylus, it’s easy to see how they too are on their way to becoming a household name themselves.

The four piece act has certainly worked hard to get where they are today and along the way have achieved some impressive goals. 2007 saw the lads release their first EP named Raw Materials before creating a video for their track, Break. As if that wasn’t enough, in the same year, they also set up a tour with Mikey Rockwell and Lojac which took the three groups to perform at various venues around the North Island.

2008 was another successful year for the band seeing three of the guys’ original tracks feature on the Freerider MX Motorcross magazine’s DVD.
They also released their second EP, Trade Goods along with adding more gigs to their ever growing list at hot spots, Auckland, Whangarei, Raglan, and The Mount, just to name a few.

Seeing as they’ve been around for a couple of years now, I think it’s high time that you sit down and have a listen to their latest EP to see for yourself what the lads have to offer.
The first time I heard track number one, Spinning, I heard Incubus mixed with a dash of Rage Against The Machine. Not a hard one to listen to, and lets you know straight away that these guys are serious about what they do.

Grind and Fallen are much the same style as the first track but different enough to prepare you for the Break remix which I reckon tastes a little bit like Limp Bizkit. Takes me back to my (rather embarrassing) mid teen years when it was cool to be seen doing ‘laps’ in the back of that Ford Escort panel van. Ahhh…those were the days…or something?

This disc also contains a live version of Grind from Hangman’s gig at the Kings Arms in 2007 featuring MC/Producer, Mikey Rockwell. Surprisingly it’s not as raw as the one recorded at The Rock Factory, but it shows that these guys can most certainly rock out just as well live as in the recording studio. With more plans on the horizon, I’m certain that these guys are well on their way to national success. Check them out.

Amanda Ratcliffe

Visit: www.myspace.com/i_love_nz for more of my reviews like this.