Live Review: The Chemist, Kucka, Shy Panther, The Weapon is Sound

It was a special occasion for band members and fans of The Chemist last Friday night, who were getting together for one last performance following the band's announcement that they would be moving on to enjoy future projects. The support for the band and the night generally was noted from the offset, as Shy Panther kicked off proceedings in front of a crowd that looked a lot heftier than usual for an opener. The band's vibe is an awkward one for new listeners – you'd be forgiven if you didn't quite get the stylings of vocalist Dan Fragomeni, with his gauche hand gestures and whiny vocal deliveries, however, it really is all part of the band's charm. Up next was popular psych/electro group Kucka who, with vocalist Laura Lowther leading the charge, kept the trend flowing with some bizarre but extremely catchy dance grooves to complement the beats.
At last, it was time for The Chemist, and this reviewer has never seen people pour into the Bakery's confines so hurriedly. The energy from the crowd surged into the performers as they launched into Silver & Gold, which gives off a blues/soulful Black Keys kind of vibe – it was a great way to begin the show and get the grooves going. Vocalist Ben Witt was in supreme form, crooning his way through the tune with a sleaze that complemented it perfectly. They invited a saxophone player onto the stage for a couple of songs towards the end, which added a pleasant shade, before Witt reached his frothiest moment in Long Road Back, lifting the intensity with some powerful, punchy vocals – and all of a sudden, it was over.
The Weapon Is Sound closed out the night with a dub-reggae soaking, entertaining those who were committed enough to hang around with some groovy psychedelic substance, almost slowing the audience down in what was a smooth ending to a wonderful evening. We're going to miss you, The Chemist!