Live Review: Peak Twins, Rule Of Thirds, Martyr Privates, Primitive Motion

30 October 2012 | 11:05 am | Bradley Armstrong

Tonight sees local labels Bedroom Suck and Bon Voyage come together to throw down Bachelor Kisses, a rather interesting closure to this month's extensive Open Frame Festival. Kicking things off, local two-piece Primitive Motion take the stage to a solid crowd and deliver a set of rather eclectic post-punk, venturing from complex soundscapes to moments of minimalist bliss. Watching the band is simply a treat with Sandra Selig's ventures into brass adding to this unique environment, which proves to be one of the highlights of the night.

Martyr Privates kick off the 'rock' portion of the night, delivering their usual high-calibre set of slap back vocals and immersive backline. Bless pops up early and the group really seem to have locked in with each other. This resonates through the rest of the show to fellow a-side Native Son, which closes a set that by this point has descended into psych-distorted lo-fi gold.

Venturing across from Adelaide, Rule Of Thirds have a rather unique feel to them, and at first they have the whole room's attention. Drawing influences from early-days goth and slightly later punk, the mix and the delivery has this Joy Division crossed with Le Tigre feel to it. The later portion sees elements of The Cure seep through as the group chop and change with a variety of sources. It's an interesting set that warrants a return visit to see how the group can evolve over time and fit into the shoes they've almost squeezed into.

It's all melancholy hinting at the upbeat from the moment that Peak Twins begin to play their first Brisbane show. The group – made up of members from Bitch Prefect, Old Mate and Wolf & Cub – seem to bring this boiling pot of sounds together into a concoction that's simply unavoidable. One of the group's more recognisable songs, The Waiting Room, almost has you feeling lethargic via the lyrics, minor-key vibe and perfect execution all contributing; before Only Sun takes you to a slightly more upbeat retro-psych 'rainy day during summer' vibe. The whole room seems to be enamoured with the group's ranging personalities covering the whole spectrum and ultimately backing the solid songwriting with a befitting performance.  

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The last minute change to the Spring Hill Hotel's Primitive Room seems to be a move for the better; allowing a full room, great sound and the ever-interesting bar matching the performance level delivered by all artists tonight.