Live Review: The Clouds, Falling Joys

The '90s have been all the rage again over the last couple of years with many of the period's favourite bands re-forming. In that theme, tonight was a nostalgic trip back 20-plus years with The Clouds and their old touring partners Falling Joys. While The Clouds have put a few tours under their belts in recent years, this is the first tour featuring Falling Joys' original line-up in two decades!  

Despite a few extra grey hairs, Falling Joys played with all the youthful bravado of their heyday, when they put out three albums before calling it a day in 1995. Their music hasn't dated and Suzie Higgie's lush vocals complemented the sweet chords of her Rickenbacker beautifully, proving the '90s was a great time for music.

Their touring mates The Clouds were meant to play Adelaide at the end of last year, but had to reschedule due to illness. It was definitely worth the wait! They were in a fun mood, especially Trish Young who told a few jokes in between songs. They were borderline dad jokes, but entertained the Sunday evening crowd nicely.

The four-piece tore through their catalogue, Young and original singer/guitarist Jodi Phillis' two-part harmonies still standouts. They even showcased a new track. While some bands who re-form years after they break up attempt to release new material, the majority of the time fans just want to hear their old stuff. But this now track could easily fit on their classic debut Penny Century, particularly due to its super-catchy guitar riff. Young proclaimed it the themesong to a show that hasn't been written yet. Last year's Beautiful Nothingness, however, although beautifully sung, didn't quite hit the mark.

Progressing through their '90s catalogue they received a cheer for every song. It's clear their fanbase hasn't waned at all despite the band's long years absent. Alchemy's Dead, Aquamarine, Bower Of Bliss, Say It and Boy Of Air lead to the finale, Hieronymus, which has to be one of the best Australian songs ever.