Live Review: Saskwatch, The Harpoons, Mining Boom

Perth band Mining Boom, who recently relocated to Melbourne, give us a handful of tunes in a casual, laidback manner as the Corner Hotel slowly fills. A couple of false starts suggest that these lads are only just starting to get their act together. In a hilarious moment the lead singer stops and looks at the bass player and says, “Are you going to do this right next time?” as they all look at each other blankly. “Just sayin',” he adds, sounding as though he's about to throw a tantrum before telling the band, “Just saying this to cover up that I messed up,” with a dry chuckle. Despite the brevity of their set, Mining Boom's hook-laden pop songs come with a rootsy garage twang that feels strangely '80s. Although they're yet to release an album, it sounds like the lads are about to hit the songwriting mother lode.

Deeply indebted to the danceable funky R&B of the '60s, The Harpoons exude an innocent charm that puts a smile on everyone's faces. Minimal arrangements give the duelling vocals and harmonies of brothers Henry and Jack Madin the opportunity to remain the focus of our attention. Together they frame Rebecca Rigby who does her best to unleash her inner Fontella Bass. She leads a cover of The Coasters' Poison Ivy, which instantly gets the crowd dancing. Originals such as Walk Away and Keep You Around have the well-worn feel of long lost pop nuggets from the '60s. Word on the street is that it won't be long before this fine band from Melbourne takes the wraps off their very first longplayer.
After a prolonged soundcheck, tonight's headliners Saskwatch are ready to roar. Chuffed that they have managed to sell out the Corner, Saskwatch have attracted a growing fanbase this year with some choice gigs ranging from a residency at Cherry Bar to supporting Earth, Wind & Fire and not forgetting their brilliant afternoon slot at Golden Plains. Tonight is all about showcasing their freshly released debut album Leave It All Behind. Much like The Bombay Royale and The Bamboos, Saskwatch are the latest combo from Melbourne to deliver a big band funk experience that comes complete with awe-inspiring, four-piece brass section. Saskwatch distinguish themselves from the pack by concentrating on producing deeply funky and soulful R&B. After an obligatory funk jam, Nkechi Anele – looking bling in a gold dress – proceeds to prove that she's a belter in every sense of the word and simply rips it up with all the power and intensity of a '70s soul diva. Anele could give Sharon Jones a good run for her money while her band play it ever so tight, funky and raw – they perhaps start to make The Bamboos look a little academic.

It's impossible to pick highlights and Saskwatch give us a high-energy showcase of their tunes. The golden soulful funk of Your Love, Don't Wanna Try, Leave It All Behind and Only One offer vintage feel good vibes. A supremely funky instrumental cover of Kids, the Minogue-Williams duet, has the crowd gleefully singing along. Armed with an explosive live set and some killer tunes that are pure dynamite, Saskwatch offer a rewarding live experience.