The Panics Review

By Melissa Jaros

Music reminiscent of the 60s jukebox music from the band Little Red started off the night. Music inspired by and evocative of the Beatles filled the uni bar.

Most of the band’s members sing vocals and play multiple instruments which creating a diverse range of sounds and melodies and was an excellent lead up to the main act, The Panics.

The Panics’ songs are not pop or dance exclusively but an eclectic mix of motown, soul and mainstream music styles. The five piece band produce a deep mellow mix of instruments and vocals. Starting slowly the Perth band finally released their first album in 2002 making their way into mainstream music. The band’s musical influence is similar to their support act however their music has a contemporary twist which is easily identifiable.

A buzz hit the crowd as the band walked onstage. The band introduced themselves as if they were back in the pubs and bars that made them famous many years before. The Panics’ relaxed nature mirrors the laid back harmonies and simplistic lyrics. The crowd roared as they played their hit single Don’t Fight It. The church organ which underpins the brass overtones and eerie vocals make the song a standout from their new album Cruel Guards. The evolution of their music was evident throughout their performance but the distinctive voice of front man Jae Laeffer ensured the songs of The Panics were easily recognisable. The mixture of musical styles and their relaxed nature seeped through both their music and their performance.

The Panics are currently touring Australia so check out their website for upcoming tour dates.

Australianess’ shows through lyrics of five piece band.

SPLENDOUR AND OVERSEAS AMERICA./ENGLAND.

Producer scott horsecroft (silverchair) gives the band a more poppier edge to its newest album.

However the distinctive sound that centres it all remains the enigmatic Jae Laffer, a voice of seemingly wiry tone that ranges across the album from Dylanesque drawl to something more ethereal. And then the drenched emotional numbness of the “Cruel Guards” themselves

SIMPLE LRYICS, ETHERIAL VOICE OF FRONTMAN JAE LAEFFER

Their first release, a self-titled EP in 2002, enjoyed high rotation on Australian radio station Triple J and community radio stations around Australia, from which they

gained some attention. The following two EPs This Day Last Year and Kid You're A Dreamer also generated radio exposure across Australia.

GREAT SUCCESS IN UK

Cruel Guards, was released on October 13, 2007. The album was Triple J's feature album for the week of October 8, 2007 [6] and went on to win the 2007 J Award[7].

Jae Laffer - vocals, guitar, keyboards

Drew Wootton - guitar

Myles Wootton - drums

Paul Otway - bass

Jules Douglas (Julian Grigor) - keyboard, guitar, vocals