Live Review: Sticky Fingers, Lyall Moloney, Bootleg Rascal

There is a buzzing, thank-god-it's-Friday atmosphere in the air at Corner Hotel, as a modest crowd gathers to watch Bootleg Rascal open up the night. The four-piece play a set that is energetic, ramshackle and jubilant – all trademarks of the band. A brief drink break, and then the crowd – now increased by a significant amount – gather back around the red-curtained stage waiting for second support, Lyall Moloney. Joined by Jimmy Young, guitarist from Bootleg Rascal, the laidback, hip hop-influenced duo has the crowd engaged from the word go. 2012's It's Your Turn gets things started, and from there it's a chilled-out mix of tracks from Dublin and newer releases, including recent single The Architect. Lyall Moloney have a beachy, Chet Faker vibe going on, but the hip hop nods are a smart addition considering our current musical climate.

By the time Sticky Fingers are due to start, the venue is packed. People are very excited; this much is clear from the way they've squished themselves, sardines-style, into every possible spot of dancefloor real estate. The noise that greets the band as they are unveiled by the curtains is one of a band adored. Indie music is clearly still alive and well, at least if it's saturated with reggae and hip hop influences. The band come out of the gate strongly with These Girls showcasing the layered vocals of lead singer Dylan Frost. The set is a perfect example of Sticky Fingers' varied and eclectic influences, with indie, dub, hip hop, reggae and rock on offer throughout. Singles Clouds And Cream and Caress Your Soul garner the most crowd-surfing and girls-on-shoulders action, but there's still plenty of that to be found elsewhere. Lyall Moloney join the boys onstage for a couple of numbers, while Bootleg Rascal (obviously) jump on stage for Bootleg Rascal, which is a fairly hectic affair. Australia Street and Kiss The Breeze impress an already impressed crowd – all of who seem caught up in the heady rush of seeing a band as dynamic as Sticky Fingers. 

When the boys leave the stage, there is an immediate, stomping cry for more, and when Sticky Fingers light up Corner Hotel again, it is with the air of a band bowled over by the sheer love coming from their fanbase. Bowled over they may be, but Sticky Fingers are deserving of every inch of their success.