Live Review: Harts, Magic Bones, Battlehounds, Glass Skies DJs

 

Harts and Magic Bones dropped by the Pirie and Co Social Club on a late Friday night with some electronic pop meets funk and garage rock. 

 

The Melbourne pair are currently on a co-headline tour to launch their new singles. Deep gravelly vocals and killer bass lines were the foundation of local band Battlehounds’ dirty rock sound. They trooped through their set despite numerous technical issues which unfortunately continued all night. Psychedelic rockers by day and DJs by night Glass Skies spun some classic rock tunes in between sets to set the mood.

 

With boundless amounts of energy Magic Bones kicked things off with frantic guitars to get the crowd dancing. Many bands churn out this classic punk rock influenced sound but they approach their live show with creativity. The four-piece swap frequently between drums and guitars and the multiple vocalists adds an interesting layer. However, Kiri O'Connor’s ruthless shouts on new single Anytime, Anywhere were a standout and, as she says, “Parts of this song make me feel like my head’s gonna explode”. Even those who weren’t dancing were probably exhausted from listening. Again, issues with the sound were frustrating but the band didn’t slow down, ending with more face-melting guitar solos and what could pass as satanic chanting. 

 

Anyone who has received praise from Prince is a must-see live act. The ridiculously talented Darren Hart writes and performs as Harts and this was his first official show in Adelaide. Accompanied by only a drummer on stage, his guitar and keyboard, the crowd were fed a delicious mix of electronic pop, soul and funk rock. He played songs from his debut album Daydreamer, all drenched with heavy bass, endless guitar shredding and falsetto vocals. Latest single When A Man’s A Fool was a highlight as he moved effortlessly on stage, the shrieking guitar solos literally oozed from his body. While Harts delivered on his performance, the change from fuzzy rock to relaxed funk didn’t flow well. The issues with sound levels dampened the vibe and the crowd were dreary at times. 

 

Expect spontaneity from a Magic Bones show and infectious grooves from Harts. While they didn’t flow smoothly together and the feelgood vibes were often lacking, both acts were impressive in their own rights. Especially Harts, who is worthy of performing to much more than a handful of people in an underground club. Expect to see his name in lights soon.