Live Review: Harts, RW Grace, Smaal Cats

Northern Beaches band Smaal Cats brought a great energy to OAF on Friday night, layering soulful bass lines with sharp drums and vocals that totally wailed. Playing tracks God’s Eyebrow and Morning Kerfuffle among others, the band’s unfiltered and raw approach to alternative rock reigned. Wrapping up their set with Seagulls Part 1 and 2, Smaal Cats had an infectious energy and presence demonstrative of a band who have been around a lot longer — worth keeping an eye on. 

RW Grace brought a bit of a lull in the night with their electronic set. Taking in their lacklustre beats and a breathy and at times off-key voice, you’d be forgiven for being surprised that they’ve worked alongside producers like TV On The Radio’s Dave Sitek and supported Alt-J on their most recent tour. The duo didn’t bring anything particularly original to the stage and, compared to the high energy and brilliant vibe of the other acts, were an unusual choice of warm up for the main act. 

With an electric presence, big hair and an even bigger sound, Harts was worth the wait. Opening with Angels Walk Below, the funky keys and snare beats lit up the audience and showcased Harts’ mastery of blending elements of heavy rock and upbeat synth. In their first sold-out show in Sydney, Harts and his bandmates put on a fantastic show, mixing elements of pop, rock, funk and soul with ease. The intimate space of the Oxford Art Factory was packed out, with the crowd grooving out to this very danceable set. As you’d expect of the Prince-Aerosmith hybrid, Harts did not disappoint.