Bon Iver live at the Sydney Opera House

11/03/12

The stage was full of musical instruments on Bon Iver’s first night at the Sydney Opera House this March, ready for a much more ferocious and experimental performance of their quiet-sounding last two albums. In a live setting they really captured the dynamics of their songs, blending carefully constructed interludes with aggressive improvisation. Bon Iver slowed down the music, deliberating over the poetic lyrics and communicating with each other, and not the audience, as to what was to come next. In fact, frontman Justin Vernon probably only spoke a few times throughout the whole show, but the five-minute standing ovation pleading encore at the end showed that no fan in the Concert Hall was particularly disappointed.

 The show mainly focused on Justin Vernon, he even performed a delicate solo “re: Stacks” on acoustic guitar. However, for the majority of the concert it was bright lights, two booming drum sets and that famous falsetto. Vernon’s voice had less conviction than on the album tracks; maybe he had other things to focus on (like leading a nine-man band on the stage of an international icon.) There was much-loved single “Skinny Love” building up into an angsty chorus full of regret, all band members joining in – as well as “Holocene”, performed quite closely to its original form on the record, with the opening strums captivating the silent audience. Ragged material was draping from the roof of the stage, seeming just for aesthetics, but throughout the concert there were abstract projections on it, engulfing the musicians and reflecting back into the audience. It certainly wasn’t your usual Sunday night at the Opera House.

The brass section sounded the best live, especially the trumpets in “Hinnom, TX” and Colin Stetson’s impressive sax solo intro the bold yet vulnerable “Blood Bank” which was my favourite performance of the night. Despite Vernon mumbling into the mic to his devoted audience, he managed to get the hall singing along for the final “The Wolves (Act I and II)” with the swelling chorus line ‘what might have been lost’ echoing in the House. The songs appear delicate, hypnotic and seamless on the album but on this night they were much more forceful and overpowering.  A live Bon Iver displayed its musical talent but challenged its fans to listen to a more raw, extreme performance.  

Remembering Sparklehorse- "It's A Wonderful Life"

Back in the days before every indie band took a three-month-long hiatus to the nearest rural shack for album inspiration—there was Sparklehorse, and his 2001 hit ‘It’s A Wonderful Life.’ A little bit folk, a little bit electronic- the music of Virginian-born Mark Linous never really hit off commercially; despite this he toured with Radiohead in 1996 and gained the respect and appreciation of the music elite and mag industry (with write-ups in the Rolling Stone and NME).

A fatal drug overdose was said to have inspired this track- but it’s also about seeking hope in the world and both embracing and overcoming depression, loneliness and alienation. There’s some great animal imagery and cryptic lyrics: “I’m full of bees who died at sea” – take what you will.  The solid waltz played on a kilter optigan (a sort of old organ) provides the foundations to a haunting, fragile melody- dotted with radio static and played through a crackling filter.

‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ is a good starting point to explore Sparklehorse as a band. Besides, we love rediscovering forgotten musical treasures. You may even recognise it from the Skins season 3 soundtrack.

Sadly Mark Linous killed himself on March 6, 2010- making the song’s optimism linger. This track truly is a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, wrapped in an enigma.

Published on Purple Sneakers.

R.I.P. Davy Jones

Davy Jones, singer for late-60s band The Monkees, died this week at the age of 66. Labelled the "cute monkee", he wasn't especially instrumentally talented (he played tambourine when not on vocals), but was part of a family-friendly phenomenon that gave carefree pop to its loving fans.

Davy Jones was born in 1945 and he began his career as an actor on various British television shows. After a casting as 'the Artful Dodger' in a West End production of Oliver!, his vocal talents were noticed and Jones appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show among others. At the young age of 21 he started his famous role as the Monkees' frontman- playing tambourine and singing on hits like 'Daydream Believer' and  'I Wanna Be Free.'

According to his publicist, Jones died of a heart attack at his home in Florida. Here is appearing as himself on the Brady Bunch Show, where he attended Marcia's prom to save her from social ruin.

Film Review - "The Artist" directed by Michael Hazanavicius

The Artist (2012)                  ★ ★ ★ ★

An ode to the pre-talkies era, The Artist is up to win ten nominations including big prizes 'Best Picture', 'Best Actor' and 'Best Director'. For a film of few words (completely silent, shot in the classic black and white frame) it seemed a surprisingly natural viewing experience. Without the ability to lure audiences with witty one-liners, comedic sarcasm or romantic dialogue – The Artist draws upon simple, physical humour and sincere human emotion. It's an enjoyable watch, especially for cinephiles, and the loveable dog Uggie almost steals the show!

Jean Dujuardin is George Valentin- a much-loved silent movies actor, whose facial expressions and bold gestures cause his audiences to laugh in an uproar (or at least they look like they're enjoying themselves.) At one of his many film premieres he stumbles upon a keen fan, the young fresh-eyed Peppy Miller (played by Argentine beauty Berenice Bejo). Later, she progresses into the world of Hollywood glamour and fame by starting out as an extra, and then wooing film executives with her dancing skills, cheeky smile and emotional delivery. Ultimately, we follow Valentin's demise as an actor, when he refuses to accept the new technology of 'talkies' films- showing how quickly fame can disappear and loneliness ensue.

The Artist was shot in lower resolution frames and the classic silent film screenshot ratio to create a more authentic piece. Interestingly, the screenplay itself took longer to write than the actual production process- with the film swiftly completed in LA over 35 days. It is clear that Hazanavicius has done his research and his cinematographer Guillame Schiffman beautifully shot the scenes with soft lighting, atmospheric background and character focus. The combination of original supporting music (Ludovic Bource) and slick alluring costumes (Mark Bridges) articulates the vision of 1920s Hollywood the film aims to portray. The combination of American and French staff on set brings European sensuality to a traditional American creation.

There is a rather simple structure, the film follows the characters chronologically throughout their Hollywood careers and there are few settings – the filming studios, the stars' homes, the public cinemas. However, it's hard for any audience member- young, romantic, cynical or learned- not to appreciate the creativity and refinement which oozes out of this timeless, romantic classic.

Top 10 romantic movie moments

Regardless of the genre or time period, a romantic bond between the two main characters in a film has conquered the hearts of its audience. From the heartbreaking scenes to dramatic declarations of love, each of the films below has its own moment which really stands out in time as a romantic on-screen moment. Interestingly, for half of them the lovers sadly do not end up together at the end of the film. For Valentines Day, here is my top 10 romantic movie moments- most of them familiar:

1. The Notebook- "It still isn't over!"
There's something about reconnected lovers that seems to make for a great narrative- Noah and Allie, young lovers, are separated for a number of years, but when they reunite sparks fly and their passion is brought to the surface. This scene takes place in the pouring rain soundtracked by dramatic strings but it's a cliché that difficult to resist.


2. Romeo + Juliet- Meeting through the fish tank
Baz Luhrmann's stunning cinematography is showcased at this point of the film when the famous young lovers meet. He has drawn from Shakespeare's original imagery to depict the fantastical costumes and aquarium setup, and a young DiCaprio and Claire Danes naturally communicate the youthful innocence of first love. Soundtracked by Des'ree's 'Kissing You', it's both emotionally charged yet so simple.

3. Pride and Prejudice- "Surely you must know, it was all for you."

The 2005 adaptation of Austen's much-loved book saw a strengthening of the developing romance between Elizabeth Bennet and the classic heartbreaker Mr Darcy. In this scene, the troubled lovers, who have previously refused a relationship due to their own pride, now realise that they are unable to control their sensitivities. They meet each other at dawn in the fields and Mr Darcy articulates almost too perfectly how he feels - a tender monologue that would melt anyone's romantic doubts.

4. Love Actually- "To me, you are perfect."
A more unconventional love story, the narrative that seemed the most poignant was Mark's muted declaration of love to his best friend's new wife Juliet. In a quiet yet theatrical manner, he progresses through hand-written posters explaining his unrequited feelings. What makes this moment so romantic, is that he pronounces his timeless adoration, but accepts its impossibility- an admirable act.

5. Titanic - "I'm flying"
One of the most successful and popular romantic movies of all time, Titanic plays upon the classic rich-girl-falls-in-love-with-the-wrong-poor-boy setup. Jack woos her with his daring and grand gestures, and he is absolutely in control during the entire scene. Perhaps it's Rose's ultimate trust in this stranger or the audience's knowledge of the miserable ending that makes it so touching. It's also a sensational first kiss.


6. Moulin Rouge!- Come What May

The only thing better than an on-screen heart-wrenching dialogue is the same scene performed in a musical. In the film's dramatic finale, courtesan Satine accepts her sincere love for poet Christian and the two sing a duet that reaches astronomical heights in terms of stage presence, chorus involvement and an emotional climax. When lovers make up after a fight on-screen, it just can't happen without fireworks, literally.


7. Breakfast at Tiffany's- "I don't want to put you in a cage. I want to love you."
Sassy New Yorker Holly Golightly finally submits to the romance of her neighbour Paul in the final scene of the movie. Holly insists that she doesn't believe in commitment but her vulnerable, confused self finally admits that she can't live without the people that she loves. This scene is a classic Audrey Hepburn moment and a romantic gesture imitated in various other movies and television shows.


8. Say Anything
One of John Cusack's most renowned roles as romantic underacheiver Lloyd brought a sense of seriousness and maturity to the typical teenage summer romance. Early on, school captain Diane rejects his relationship proposal and Lloyd spends the majority of the film depressed and broody. It's when he finally gets himself up again and is determined to pursue his passion that his boldness oozes into every bit of dialogue and action. "What I want to do for a living- is I want to be with your daughter," the 19-year-old exclaims. And who can forget the famous boombox moment?

9. 10 Things I Hate About You- Patrick's serenade
It seems ridiculous that such romantic drama would occur in a high school setting but there were no complaints when Heath Ledger's character bursts into song to serenade a stubborn love interest. He plays the classic bad boy in the '90s film and so its even more surprising that he takes it upon himself to perform a ballad in public. This scene shows a romantic moment a little more comedic than most.

10. The Way We Were- "Your girl is lovely, Hubble."
Finally, one of the most melancholy love stories- the actual romance itself is short and sweet, but the unpredictable twists and turns of life ultimately separate the animated Katie and Hubble. At the end of the film, the couple meets - Katie now a single mother to their young daughter, and Hubble engaged to another woman. Barbra Streisand running her fingers through a young Robert Redford's hair shows that their relations are not completely over, and the wistful titular theme song in the background makes the moment even more pitiful.

Northeast Party House release 'Empires' music video

Northeast Party House recently released their video for single Empires –the second track off their self-titled debut EP which was released last December. The Melbourne-based band is an EMI partner, signed with label Stop and Start and winner of 2011 triple j unearthed. They recently wowed audiences at Falls Festival with their energetic live performances and infectiously catchy tunes. It’s sort of like Talking Heads meets Gorillaz –with a little bit of cliché 80’s electro.

Director Dylan Wiehan has gone for a fragmented effect in the music video; there’s no narrative or controversial symbolism as such, but more an entrancing encapsulation of the band’s dreamy synth for screen. It depicts the band playing ‘Empires’ through soft focus, where they recorded in the busy Australian woodlands. It can look unimaginative, filming a band in their rehearsal space, but I was taken by it. In fact, with the video on mute, it’s almost like you could be watching another music video for an Australian indie rock band.

The camera movement is still but deliberate, and each band member gets a focus point. However, vocalist Zach Hamilton-Reeves has the most engaging expressions, and the others seem absentminded and difficult to connect with. Wiehan has primarily revolved the video on the instruments, after each still we return via selective focus to the sci-fi keyboards, deep bass and upbeat drumming.

There are no disguises; with the natural light emerging from the windows of their forest cabin, the band appears as they are, dressed in casual weekend clothes, with a personal twist. It’s like a group of teenagers jamming, but with grown-up sensitivity. And when Hamilton Reeves’ is singing the hook “we never fought, we never tried”, you can see the articulation of regret on his face. The subtle moody atmosphere continues throughout the clip, and can seem subversive for a song that’s quite low-key in its dynamics and at first a cheerful dance track.

Northeast Party House is touring Australia this month, along with Nantes and millions, for the Triple Treat Tour.

Published on Purple Sneakers.

Odd Future live at the Enmore Theatre

24/01/12

It’s not often that a crowd is told to chant ‘nigga’ on cue over and over, but for Odd Future it’s just a part of their provocative act. The group headed down under for Big Day Out, and their much anticipated sideshow gave fans a live taste of the west coast charisma and controversial lyrics that have accelerated fame via internet for the young troublemakers.

At only 20, Tyler, The Creator, frontman and LA personality, captures his audience with his out-of-control dancing and dark humour. The audience was gulping it all up – bouncing when instructed, settling down during the lyric-laden verses and going nuts at the bass-heavy drops. At one point, Tyler even got OF’s funky female DJ, Syd Tha Kid, to restart a song: “No, no, we gotta do the drop properly!”

The rap collective seems slightly deranged, but with their energetic and mischievous hip-hop their stage show is sloppy but seamless. Bouncing around with tremendous energy, the group performs their own sets with passion and anger, leaving the audience in awe at their acapella rapping at full speed- Left Brain looks around -” Y’all couldn’t keep up!” “I’m too intelligent.” With no support act, the crowd was left to wait in suspense while the stage was progressively filled with smoke and hypnotic lighting. In suspense, shouting “wooolllf gang- gollfff wang” a short intro by Syd kicked off the riot of OF’s two-hour set including tracks French!, Transylvania and Sandwitches.

Since their performance at last year’s Vivid Live, OF has gained more fans and some young, angry ones at that- with plenty of kids packing into the tight venue to show off their knowledge of the free-thinking lyrics. There was a mixed audience- with weed-smoking hipsters, hip hop bros and trendy girls all doing their own thing and all dressed similarly in OF merch t-shirts. No one was worried about the absence of mysterious member Earl Sweatshirt by the time Tyler got to his hit track Yonkers with the crowd unleashing all frenzy and anger brought with them to the show.

Ending with Radicals hyped up the crowd to unpredicted levels, even rapper Hodgy Beats was getting aggressive in his dance moves. But when the crowd chants along to the little-less-than-subtle chorus it’s clear that this is all an act. Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All know that their inherently white audience doesn’t actually ‘burn shit’ and ‘kill people’ but it’s entertaining enough to let loose and pretend to be a rebel for the night.

Published on Purple Sneakers.