Live Review: Gold Class, Time For Dreams, Geryon

Geryon is an interesting opener for tonight. The left-of-center bedroom electro-pop tastes a bit sour, as is the audiences response. The mix is just off for the style, while technical issues and partial nerves from the performer lead the set to glide over as a bit of a passing moment. It is a shame as this humble and appreciative artist shows a lot of potential - which does get showcased in the playful loops of the laidback-future-pop of the closing track, but tonight just was a bit of a misfire. 

Another unexpected change of pace comes as we head down an electro-psych route that is Time For Dreams. The sound again is not the best for the genre, but the level of intrigue is high as the guitarist for the group has some serious effects on show — which allow for some serious gear nerdery if you can get your head out of the dense atmospheres on show. Like Sun Araw meets Freetime, the band's expansive compositions rely on an electronic backing underneath it all. They're definitely loud, but again the sstunted audience response is mixed. A true surprise to the newcomers, the creativity on show makes them a highlight despite a few muddy moments.

As soon as a slight rumble from Gold Class' bass being sound checked, it is a different world in the band room - the sold out crowd finally show their numbers. Their return is without a doubt anticipated and a crucial point for the band before they head to the UK and share their new LP with us. The crowd is a younger breed that have clearly heard the hype through the grapevine, and the band themselves continue their cross-over from the underground. From the start, they are less angsty in comparison to the past and present themselves in a well-rehearsed, professional light. 

Any criticisms can be regarded as a moot point amongst tonight's audience, as most were won over before walking into The Tote and with justifiable reason. Bite Down, Michael and Life As A Gun are still as enjoyable live now as ever, though they do lose people with the rest of the set again in part due to the festival style bass heavy mix. Occasionally, lifeless sounding guitars and equally buried vocals render the band down to their broadest comparison - Interpol. They close with latest single Kids On Fire which is a mixed bag. It's a clear sign that the Gold Class beast is alive and well, but the energy and magic on the recorded version are only halfway there live.

The band abruptly leave the stage following. Overall, tonight's experiment of a sold out show had its moments, but it almost feels like a warm up for summer.