Van She Review

By Tessa Muskett

Dance and experimental duo WOW stepped up to the mics first, draping one in a chunky necklace with a reflective ‘WOW’ in the vein of something you might buy for two dollars at Diva, before a sale. They were definitely not Art Vs Science as they so clearly pointed out upon our opportunity for first impressions. The vocals were shouty and they employed the unimaginative but very loud use of a cow bell to the rhythm section. Another direction the vocals went in was the more psychadelic and girly sort, reminiscent of Grafton Primary. There was a strong strobe light flickering on and off to create some sort of atmosphere. They also used sirens in the music and the most awful buzzing sound I have ever heard. The vocals were too loud and seemed to be trying to compensate for the overall lack of any change in the other sounds. The lyrics were purely based on trends, with the uninspired wailing of the word “werewolf” followed by his band mates howls. Far from cute or interesting this was just boring. The brunette and blonde in front of me with matching beehives seemed to be into it though.

Sydney indie scene sweethearts Lost Valentinos played their brand of dancey indie rock next. All of the musicians were very focused on stage and the lead singer’s moves kept all eyes on him. At times his vocals were rappy and at others more smooth. They were reminiscent of Van She and seemed a too well fitting support act (like how Yves Klein Blue recently supported The Fratellis). They had a second member drumming for some parts, creating a powerful beat to support the other sounds, which were all, also strong. One of the guitarists was the Harry High-pants of the guitar world and had many people envious of his level of indie cool.

Van She are the vodka in your Orange juice, the Red Bull at a slumber party and Sharon to Kath and Kim. They not only bring the party (as their advertising so heavily proclaims), and an inescapable buzz, but also sexiness. Their music is all smoothness and catchiness and future sounds that seem to come from one’s past.

Van She are as trendy as the Ksubi jeans they wear and the Ben Sullivan photography that graces their album cover. The delivery of superb single ‘Changes’ was disappointing on this occasion. It should be all relaxed and understated infectiousness but tonight it felt hurried and out of sync, as though it should have been later in the set when the band had eased into the show. The song had a panicky feel rather than a soothing one.

Van She’s live show has grown so much in the last year. With their growth in popularity they have been able to play bigger stages, taking on more of an epic feel, which reflects the way their music is spacey. ‘Sex City’ was an older song that was a highlight and they finished the night with ‘Kelly’ the sing-along of the moment, from debut album ‘V’.