To be in a crowded room full of small-town talent is a special feeling, it's almost like you're in on a huge secret that's about to be revealed. Tonight was no exception as Squid Fishing launch their new single Sometimes I Forget How To Walk with an epic line-up of thriving Tassie acts.
Hobart's Christopher Coleman kicked things off with his guitar and hit-you-right-in-the-heart songwriting. The audience was still, and for good reason. Coleman's performance is mesmerising. Upping the pace by a mile was new kids on the block Come Knights, providing us with a psychedelically good time before local legends Lazer Baby took the stage.
There was a whole new level of energy in the room as Launceston punk rockers The Sleepyheads began. Punters were now making a beeline to the front of the stage, some seeming to be on the brink of tears with excitement. Performing Never Forget You're Here For Them saw vocalist Pat Broxton take a step back, gleefully allowing the loud and adoring crowd to chant the chorus.
After a diverse whirlwind of Tassie talent, it was time for Squid Fishing to set the party on fire.
It's impossible to keep your eyes off the stage with the eclectic mix of onstage personality and talent that is Squid Fishing, all four members so clearly driven by passion and love for what they do. When lead vocalist Zena Mohamad performs or even speaks, you just want to be her best friend. She's the epitome of cool, somehow wielding a unique mix of awkwardness and supreme confidence.
The vocal collaborations between Mohamad and lead guitarist Ethan Groombridge have heightened in recent times, and they are jaw-droppingly brilliant live. A setlist of new and old songs, including Heavy Boots and Meaningless Sex, had the audience begging for more after each song due to the band's ever-growing charisma and skillset.
There were head-bangers, boogies, finger-guns, embraces, and oh so many singalongs. As Squid Fishing end with Sometimes I Forget How To Walk, the energy is somehow upped. It's a ripper of a tune and well worthy of what has been an epic celebration.
