Live Review: San Cisco, Montaigne, Gunns

Montaigne opens with a sensational, spine-tingling, indie-pop vocal performance. Gunns deliver surf-rock with a dreamy, psychedelic vibe.

San Cisco charge forward at full speed with a more mature look and an evolved sound packed with infectious positive energy and catchy hooks. Showcasing some fresh material, including new songs Too Much Time Together and Bitter Winter, lead singer Jordi Davieson reveals that the band have been busily writing a new record that’s due out early next year. While their new music has a noticeably different style, with a more complex blend of genres and more intricacy, San Cisco stay true to their distinctive, fun, indie-pop sound. Latest single Run is a quirky, upbeat track layered with heavy-panting, percussive sound effects and dancing guitars that make us feel good.

Another new number called Wash It All Away demonstrates Davieson’s diverse vocal range from deep, raspy tones to effortless falsetto. This supercharged number features funky jams that build up to a loud, anthemic rock chorus.

The quartet mix the set up with a few old favourites including Golden Revolver, No Friends and Awkward, all of which win us over with their contagious choruses and snappy guitar riffs. Beach and Reckless show San Cisco’s emotional side. Guitarist Josh Biondillo takes lead vocals on the playful Girls Do Cry, a song filled with plenty of tambourine-tapping that’s driven by a dance-happy beat.

The show ends on a high note with the bubbly Fred Astaire. The song’s lively melody and racing rhythms mean guaranteed dancing and clapping in the audience. This taste of San Cisco’s new material promises an exciting second album.