Live Review: Skipping Girl Vinegar

On the rooftop of an Abbotsford apartment building, a magical impromptu stage is set for a unique show from local five-piece Skipping Girl Vinegar. This incredible location, adorned with lanterns and fairy-lights, allows for a slice of whimsy and seclusion incongruously situated next to bustling Victoria Street. The famous Audrey the Skipping Girl is at our eye level and only a mere few metres away atop the old vinegar factory, the band's namesake. Though she's been turned on and off over the years, tonight she's shining, neon and animate; the perfect backdrop for a mesmerising concert steeped in location.

Skipping Girl Vinegar open with folky tunes, Hell Out Of Town and the rhythmic, thigh-slapping Hand To Hold, two addictively good country rock songs, showcasing Mark Lang's smooth lead vocals. It's clear from the off that the band are perfectly in sync, presenting a captivating front. Conversely, Castles Full Of Storm is an almost brooding, lyrical ballad which groups acoustic guitar, keyboard and violin with two strong male voices. The group demonstrate a perfected grasp of varied genres, presented and performed with a rare sincerity.

An audience highlight is the atmospheric You Can which contains an exciting drumming build within the gentle pop tune. This song gets the audience clapping while Lang gesticulates to Audrey – as if it were possible for us to forget about her – her presence and the area itself giving the impression we're in a picturesque music video. The single we're here to celebrate, Making Our Way, is a light-hearted pop anthem with a feel-good vibe. Everyone in the band contributes vocals on this song, foot tapping away while conveying their infectious joy and energy.

The stripped back Wandered transports us to a country church as the band perform choral-like vocals to a clapping audience, Lang impressing with his country-like storytelling knack. Skipping Girl Vinegar certainly take us wandering – from Aireys Inlet to the West Coast to over the West Gate Bridge through their songwriting. Before the set comes to an end Lang politely asks if we'd like an encore before performing the emotive Heart Does Ache – a heartfelt dedication to loved ones.

Skipping Girl Vinegar's dreamy rooftop gig evokes a wholesome feeling; like an idealised family reunion where everyone magically gets along. But as the set sings its conclusion it's back to the real world – where typical Melbourne cynicism takes the place of whimsy and red velvet cupcakes.