Live Review: Converse Get Loud: DZ Deathrays, Doctopus, Hamjam

Like most things to do with the ubiquitous and thoroughly peculiar Vice magazine, the secret party for Converse sneakers (originally a little unclear in regards to the specifics; we got the impression that the party was thrown because 'sneakers are cool') was confronting, bizarre and absolutely pumping. One of six shindigs thrown by Converse across Australia and New Zealand celebrating the grittier side of fashion, music and art, everything from the music playlists and performances to the attendees were perfectly suited to such a celebration.

Undoubtedly, patrons of this most audacious party were feeling pretty good about themselves as they announced their names to be crossed off the door list, as there were limited spots available for the free-booze/tunes/ticketed event being given away on social medias. Speaking of the patrons, the Little Wing Corner Gallery was a wonderful place to people-watch on this particular evening. A deluge of far-reaching variations in hipster-chic filled the gallery as everyone plied themselves with drinks and strutted their overalls and their parachute pants, '90's Seattle-alternative stylings and Steve Zissou beanies. As the DJ made all sorts of noises come out of the hefty PA system, mainly consisting of '90's hip hop woven among the stuff more at home on RTR's full frequency program, patrons mainly stuck to the back room where the bar was. The stage was empty but the room was full with people getting nice and lubricated; indeed, it was about time for the music to start.

After a quick sound check, HAMJAM were ready to give everybody the what-for. Co-founder and frontman Hamish Rahn gave a quick shout out to the skateboard ramp sitting in the corner, or maybe the people sitting on it, it was hard to tell, and then the group launched into an apocalyptic, angst-ridden cacophony. As they brought hell down upon their instruments, such was the influx of people into the room that suddenly the free alcohol was of no concern to most, this new sounds much more important. HAMJAM's set was indicative of the rest of the night: fast, loud and short.

After a lengthy interlude provided by the well-practiced DJ, fellow locals Doctopus were up next. Doctorpus' set was as ear splitting and energetic as their mates before them, and they tore through their timeslot at a maddening pace. Another lengthy interlude ensured that the party did not end too quickly, and DZ Deathrays finished up with a maniacal and chaotic set of their own, starting with a gluttonous and hearty chug from one of the free bottles of Sailor Jerry rum, and finishing with blood on the snare drum. With everyone sufficiently drunk, stylish and bleeding, one could most certainly say it was a very successful party.