Live Review: Blood Red Shoes, Step-Panther & Black Zeros

UK garage duo Blood Red Shoes barrelled into Sydney with a loud show described by one punter as your mum's worst nightmare. Despite a half empty room the energy coming from the stage was strong and full of punk attitude. The three bands that held court were charming in their scuzzy delivery and subtlety held no currency here. Volume was king.

Black Zeros played first with a nice short set of Ramones-style garage. Australia's garage scene is one of the brightest in the world right now and young bands like these pop up seemingly every weekend. Their confidence was better than their musicianship and it carried the performance. They were great.

Step-Panther's show was good, but they were having constant problems with their bass. To be honest it didn't hurt the group not having a lower end, as the guitarist had good enough chops to punch through a number of songs with no ill effects. It sounded big and the singing sucked, but the guitar work was top drawer.

It's always a bit disappointing to go to shows with not many people, especially when the acts come from overseas on their debut trip. It's a mixture of guilt and embarrassment sometimes. There was a point about two-thirds through Blood Red Shoes' set when Steven Ansell and Laura-Mary Carter cracked a few jokes and the awkwardness melted away and, instead of an empty room it was an intimate room; a show for a select few to enjoy. They played an even selection from all three of their albums and Carter's guitar wailed and gnashed its teeth, sounding gigantic, while Ansell's drumming was tight and crackling with fire.

They were enjoying themselves and were gracious with the small crowd, playing a solid set with no slacking off. They clearly enjoy what they do and hopefully they'll enjoy a bigger crowd next time. No doubt some new fans will be made this trip.