Live Review: Little Earthquake - Upstairs Beresford

Little Earthquake dropped by the Upstairs Beresford as part of the tour showcasing their latest track, Bright Side, the film clip for which had just been taken off Youtube for featuring a dead fish; “Whatever, it's on Vimeo now” frontman Matthew Hyland said, and that was just about how much he seemed to care about it.

Hyland and his brother Justin seemed very carefree as they played to the open front bar of the Beresford, and they entertained to say the least. “Boom motherfucker,” Matthew bellowed as a poor glassy dropped a stack of schooners to the laughter of the crowd, the crowd interaction heightened by the modest turnout as the boys really played to each individual. Both Hylands have great voices but Matthew really draws attention with his pitch-perfect depictions of Little Earthquake's short repertoire.

Planets brought the back wall occupiers to the dancefloor where Matthew met them with CDs after the song, deciding it was so much fun down there he stayed for the rest of the gig, interacting with every unsuspecting punter who walked through the door as well as those sitting at tables, and the long-suffering bar staff. His comfortable demeanor and upbeat pop songs made it easy for the chosen few to have a little boogie with the frontman before continuing on their way.

Everyone who saw the entire gig lucked out; on and off stage Matthew bounced around carelessly spewing out perfect vocals, Justin singing a little lower, making for lovely harmonies.

The band didn't miss a beat and by the end of the set enough people had joined the crowd to give Little Earthquake somewhere near the size of audience they deserved for this big bouncy and positive show.