UniCentre Band Comp Repechage Round Review
Tuesday 4th August 2009
After five heats, thirty bands and over ten thousand points being awarded, the 2009 UniCentre Band Comp had come to the semi-final stage. With a huge cross section of genres and influences on offer this one was set to be big and the bands certainly did not disappoint.
First up on the UniBar stage were pop-rockers Khorosho who combined elements of Paramore and Wollongong’s best export, Porcelain in their twenty minute set. With solid bass lines combined with tight drumming and guitar solos, the female vocals capped off the sound to combine with great success.
Next were two-piece outfit Traders of the Precinct. Keeping it simple with drums, keys and the laptop sampling sounds that seem to be emerging in all new bands, the use of vocal harmonies was very well done. The strong stage presence and simply crazy antics is certainly something that could see these guys get huge.
Playing in the middle slot was indie group Tokyo Spares. These guys seem to have been around forever and have gone from strength to strength over the years. Combining sass and flair on lead vocals these girls and guy were tight as ever.
Turning for home were Bennie James and the Hesitant Few. After withdrawing from last year’s competition due to illness, this indie rock group have made a number of line-up changes since then. Now playing as a five piece their catchy songs and strong musical talent was one of the most pleasing points of their set.
The last band was Mother and Son who also played as a low key two-piece outfit. Building the set throughout, they hit every note on time and got the crowd up and dancing for one last song. Their stage presentation was also a highlight with guitars being taken as far as leads would allow with crazy Led Zeppelin-esque solos thrilling those in the front row.
The judges were then off to make their decision and there was less than three points separating the top three. Going through to the final to be played at Wollongong UniBar on Thursday 27th August are Traders of the Precinct and Bennie James and the Hesitant Few. The night is set to be huge with all seven finalists as well as last year’s winners The Jacket. Entry is just $5 for General Admission and FREE for UOW Students, tickets available at the door.
Matt Dawson
Wollongong UniCentre
